Salesian Gospel Roads: Forming Young Missionary Disciples

By Nicole Perque, Coordinator of Advancement, Archbishop Shaw High School

(Marrero, LA – September 17) – At the end of July, Archbishop Shaw High School (Shaw) had the privilege of hosting Salesian Gospel Roads, an overnight service retreat and formative Salesian experience, conducted by, for, and with the young. Nearly 90 participants from across the United States traveled to Marrero to spend a week living out the Salesian mission through faith, fellowship, and service.

The Salesian Gospel Roads program (Gospel Roads) is designed to help young people build a strong Christian and Salesian community. Each day included opportunities for service in the local area, processing and reflection on the day’s experiences, moments of prayer, and life within a small communal environment. Participants worked alongside one another, supported by Salesian priests, brothers, sisters, and lay collaborators, to deepen their understanding of what it means to be a missionary disciple in today’s world.

During their time in New Orleans, the young people engaged in various service projects that met real needs in the community. They served at local shelters and food pantries, assisted with parish outreach programs, and lent their energy to helping neighbors in need. Each act of service became a lesson in living out the Gospel and carrying forward the Salesian charism of St. John Bosco. Equally important were the times of prayer and reflection. Participants celebrated the Eucharist daily, prayed together as a community, and shared their personal faith journeys. In small groups, they processed the challenges and joys of service, learning from one another’s experiences and recognizing God’s presence in the people they encountered. These moments helped transform service into true discipleship, rooted in Christ and expressed through love.

The week at Shaw was more than just a retreat; it was a transformational experience. The energy and enthusiasm of the young participants filled our campus with joy and renewed the spirit of our community. Their presence reminded us of the power of faith, the importance of service, and the strength of the Salesian Family.

The ultimate goal of Gospel Roads—to form young missionary disciples through prayer, community, and service—was lived out fully in those days. Shaw is grateful to have hosted this powerful gathering and proud to have shared in the growth of young people who will continue to spread the Salesian mission in their schools, parishes, and communities across the country.