Embark on Next Year’s Salesian Family Spirituality Days in Turin

By Andrea Zimmerman, Salesian Family SDB Delegate and Salesian Cooperator

Dear Salesian Family Members of the Province of St. Philip the Apostle,

Greetings in Don Bosco!

I am delighted to invite you to the Salesian Family Spirituality Days in Turin-Valdocco, Italy, taking place January 21–24, 2027 (beginning at 3:00 pm on Thursday and ending at 1:00 pm on Sunday). This global gathering will be guided by the theme of the 2027 Salesian Family Strenna: “Charity is patient, charity is kind — ‘Dedicated’ to the integral well-being of young people.”

Highlights of the Event

• Prayer, formation, and fellowship with Salesian Family members worldwide.
• The presentation of the 2027 Strenna by the Rector Major.
• A study session celebrating the 150th anniversary of Don Bosco’s Preventive System.
• Mass, small-group reflections, and a visit to the Don Bosco Museum.
• The opportunity to experience Valdocco, the birthplace of the Salesian mission.

I have attached the full Strenna presentation here for you to review before applying.

Financial Support

Thanks to the generosity of our donors and our provincial, we are offering $1,000 toward expenses for each of the 10 selected nominees. This stipend covers registration, hotel, board and meals, program materials, and ground transportation. Selected attendees will be responsible only for their personal airfare to Milan, Italy (estimated at $600–800).

How to Apply

• Any member of a Salesian Family group may submit a nomination (self-nominations or nominations from other Salesian Family group leaders/coordinators are welcome).
• Please review this nomination form for complete criteria. Nominees must be official members of a recognized Salesian Family group and meet at least one of the listed criteria (Emerging Leadership, Growing Participation, Dedicated Service, or Inspiring Witness).
• Submit completed nominations to me at andreazimm36@gmail.com by Friday, November 13, 2026.
• The registration for the Salesian Family Spirituality Days in Turin closes on December 15, 2026, so prompt submissions are appreciated.

Having attended the Spirituality Days at Valdocco in 2025, I can say it was a transformative, grace-filled experience. I encourage each of our communities to prayerfully consider nominating someone to bring this spirit back to our province and your local work.

Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions. I look forward to receiving your nominations!

Gratefully in Don Bosco,

Andrea Zimmerman
Salesian Family SDB Delegate and Salesian Cooperator
Province of St. Philip the Apostle