San Francisco Province
The Salesian Parish
We all live in and belong to a parish church. A parish is a juridical entity established in the local church by the bishop for the care of the faithful. Most of the time it is territorial with definite boundaries. Sometimes it is established for particular needs, such as those associated with various nationalities, languages, or rites. As members of a parish family we worship together, receive sacraments, socialize and find inspiration, spiritual growth, consolation and reconciliation within its confines.
But a Salesian parish is challenged to be unique. In addition to carrying out the activities of a regular parish, a Salesian community must be faithful to the vision of Don Bosco. Foremost in this vision is a preference for working with the poor and the young.
St. John Bosco's "bon voyage" advice to his first missionaries going to Argentina included this most pastoral injunction: "Take special care of the sick, of the young, of the old and of the poor; and you will win the blessing of God and goodwill of all." These are the ones on the fringe of any society. These are the defenseless who often have no advocate for their needs. In caring for these "little ones," those who are healthy and who can provide for themselves and their families recognize in the Salesian ministry a care for all members of the parish.
Salesian parishes have any number of the following: a parochial school, a boys and girls club, a teen club, a young adult club, an altar servers society, a scouting program, CCD, and other outreaches to youth as local circumstances demand.
The Salesian parish encourages its youth to get involved in liturgies and Christian service. The youth of the parish run fund-raisers for various recreational and apostolic projects. There are the ever-present bake sales, car washes and collection drives.
It is perhaps in the liturgy that youth involvement is most evident. Young people of all ages plan, recruit, practice for and participate in at least one of the Sunday Masses. Adults enjoy seeing the younger generation taking an interest in the Faith.
This involvement by young people is not without its difficulties. There are occasional
lapses of decorum, the young voices cannot be heard over the P.A. and not all symbolic
objects 
and actions are
understood by the congregation. This is where the parish mentors supply guidance, positive
criticism, balance and the hope that practice makes perfect!
So, here's to the Salesian parish! May it continue to inculcate St. John Bosco's love for the Church, the Holy Father, the sacraments (especially the I Eucharist), devotion to the saints and Mary Help of Christians and holiness in this life leading to a joyful forever.
