- +2711 680 1680
- +2771 678 8153
- pdo@salesians.org.za
The Salesians of Don Bosco in Southern Africa
We are a Catholic religious congregation known as the Salesians of Don Bosco (S.D.B.), founded in 1859 by Saint John Bosco in Turin, Italy. The first Salesians arrived in South Africa in 1896 (Cape Town), later expanding to eSwatini (Swaziland) in 1953 and Lesotho in 1980.
Our Mission
Our primary mission is to support the Young People in Southern Africa especially the disadvantaged youth, while promoting the spirituality and educational approach of Don Bosco within the local Church and society.
Our Work
We are actively involved in:
Our goal is to empower young people through education, skills training, and faith-based development.
Today, the Salesians of Don Bosco are active in seven local communities, collaborating with hundreds of mission partners — including teachers, educators, social workers, and youth ministers — to support more then 15,000 young people in eSwatini, Lesotho, and South Africa. Our headquarters is located in Booysens, Johannesburg, South Africa.
Our Inspiration
St. Francis de Sales, known for his zealous pastoral care and deep charity, was a great inspiration to Don Bosco. His optimistic humanism and unwavering dedication to guiding souls shaped the Salesian mission.
In 1854, Don Bosco proclaimed:
“The Madonna (Our Lady – the Blessed Virgin Mary) wishes that we begin a Society. I have decided to call ourselves Salesians. Let us put ourselves under the protection of St. Francis de Sales so that we may obtain his extraordinary gentleness.”
His vision continues to guide our work today.
Introduction
Name: Giovanni Bosco (John Bosco)
Born: August 16, 1815, in Castelnuovo d’Asti, Italy
Died: January 31, 1888
Canonization: Declared a saint by Pope Pius XI in 1934
Also Known As: Don Bosco
His Early Life & Calling
Grew up in poverty after his father’s early death.
Felt a strong calling to help poor and abandoned boys in Turin, Italy.
Became a priest in 1841 and dedicated his life to youth education and care.
Founding of the Salesians
Established the Salesians of Don Bosco in 1859 to educate and uplift disadvantaged youth.
Inspired by St. Francis de Sales, emphasizing gentleness, kindness, and optimism.
Founded the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians (Salesian Sisters) in 1872 to educate girls.
The Preventive System of Education
Focused on reason, religion, and loving kindness rather than punishment.
Created schools, workshops, and oratories (youth centers) to teach faith, values, and skills.
Global Impact & Legacy
The Salesian mission spread worldwide, focusing on education, vocational training, and youth ministry.
Today, the Salesians operate schools, technical institutes, and youth centers in over 130 countries.
Don Bosco remains a patron saint of youth, students, and educators.
Conclusion
Saint John Bosco’s mission was to guide young people towards a better future through education, faith, and moral values. His legacy continues through the Salesian Family, impacting millions of young lives around the world.
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