The Salesian Cooperator Introduction Developed and Designed by Bro. Jerry Meegan, SDB St. Joseph Cooperator Center, St. Petersburg, FL

St. John Bosco founded three groups during his lifetime: The Society of St. Francis DeSales (commonly known as the Salesians of Don Bosco) December 18, 1859. The Daughters of Mary Help of Christians (commonly known as the Salesian Sisters) with St. Mary Domenica Mazzarello on August 5, 1872 The Association of the Salesian Cooperators May 9, 1876

Topics of Discussion St. John’s Bosco’s work The difficulties with getting his congregation approved by Rome Why the Salesian Cooperators? The scope and vocation of the Salesian Cooperators

St. John Bosco’s Work 1824: Dream of the Field December 8, 1841: Feast of the Immaculate Conception The beginnings of the Oratory His constant moving about His first helpers The Pinardi Shed

Difficulties of getting approvals from Rome Constitutions of 1864 Constitutions of 1874 The formulation of a “Pious Union” Doubts from Rome Doubts from the Salesians Union of Salesian Cooperators, 1876

Why the Salesian Cooperators? Don Bosco wanted a branch of Salesians with full rights in the Congregation though not bound by vows and not living in common. Don Bosco’s work for his boys expanded so rapidly he could not handle it all alone. He needed help. His first helpers were priests: Joseph Cafasso, Peter Merla, John Baptist Borel (his most faithful assistant). They were assisted by outstanding laymen and women: Count Cays, Marquis Frassati, Joseph Gagliardi, his own Mamma Margaret, and Marchioness Fassati. A way of life for secular members with an emphasis on the active life devoted in particular to helping the homeless young rather then doing exercises of piety.

The Scope and Vocation of a Salesian Cooperator Operative word:Vocation! A state of life A living out of one’s baptismal commitment according to Don Bosco’s charism Scope To becomes “signs and bearers of the love of God” to young people Governed by the Regulations of Apostolic Life Requires a period of formation Becomes a member of the Salesian Family

The Salesian Family * First Level The Salesians of Don Bosco The Salesian Sisters The Salesian Cooperators * Second Level 11 Groups recognized as members of the Salesian Family * Third Level 3 associations recognized with particular qualifications * Fourth Level 10 groups waiting to be recognized * Wider Family Salesian movement Friends of Don Bosco

What This Means > Examing this “vocation call” > Examing the time element necessary for the formation commitment > Examing the concept that this is an active “vocation” within the context of your present state in life > Examing the concept based on your involvement in a community through membership and meetings > Examing how you can share in the patrimony of the Salesian Family

Next Steps > Reflect on what you’ve learned at this meeting > Ask Questions > Arrange for a personal interview with Bro. Jerry or Fr. John > Pray and discern > By January 31,2004 Write a letter of intent indicating your willingness to begin the formation program