Salesian Spiritual Companionship
Malta, 23 July 2018 -- Few days ago was established a new Vice-province in Europe - Malta (MLT), becoming the 90th Salesian juridical circumscription in the world. It's about 4 canonical communities and 36 Salesians with 1 novices at present. As the first Superior of the Viceprovince was appointed Fr. Paul Formosa, former Delegate of Malta under the IRL province.
One of the 36 Malta Viceprovince confreres, Fr. Louis Grech has recently published the result of his praxis and study, a 560 page book on 'Salesian Spiritual Companionship' (With the young people today), Ed. Horizons, 2018. In the conclusion of his research Fr. Louis Grech asserts that Don Bosco does indeed offer a very unique contribution within the realm of spiritual direction with the following elements:
- Radicality - credibility of his ascetic life
- Convergence of styles - positively adapted various spirituality (Ignatius, Francis de Sales, Vincent de Paul, Cafasso)
- Totality - was concerned about holistic formation comprising the material and spiritual welfare of each youngster
- Empowerment - within the formative Oratory environment
- Happiness - pursuit of the most deeply rooted aspiration is manifested in many ways
- Creativity - render spiritual proposals appealing to young people with his practical style
- Astuteness - as strong believer in prevention, clearing various obstacles on the way to grow
- Perfection... Simplicity ..... Nurturing.....
As regards the implications for today, Fr. Louis suggest in his conclusion the following focus on
- Determine the directess
- Provide early solid ground - to make mature young adults
- To propose role models
- To create a meaningful family environment
- To maintain a harmonious balance
- To foster a vocation culture
- To exercise practial and spiritual wisdom
- To prioritize self-care and supervision
Some reviews:
"Fr Louis Grech's contribution in the area of Salesian Spiritual Accompaniment is a result of years of reflective ministry. His pastoral experience both as vocation promoter and later on also as Youth Ministry Coordinator for the Salesians of Don Bosco in Malta has equipped him with a solid vision of youth ministry, which has vocational discernment right at the centre. In the light of the Synod on 'Youth, Faith and Vocation Discernment, Fr. Grech's work is indeed a useful tool for all those embarking in youth ministry, spiritual accompaniment and vocational discernment." (from the back cover, by Fr. Fabio Attard, SDB)
"Fr Louis Grech studies Don Bosco's praxis of youth spiritual accompaniment from the privileged viewpoint of one who is himself engaged in such praxis. This is indeed a fresh and precious contribution" (Fr. Ivo Coelho, SDB)
"I'm confident that this work will be of great assistance to educators and pastoral workers today and for years to come." (Fr. Joseph Boenzi, SDB)
