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The Salesians of Don Bosco (SDB), formally known as the Society of Saint Francis de Sales (Latin: Societas Sancti Francisci Salesii), is a religious congregation of men in the Catholic Church, founded in 1859 by the Italian priest John Bosco to help poor and migrant youngsters during the Industrial Revolution.
Don Bosco was a follower of Saint Francis de Sales’ simple spirituality and philosophy of kindness and established the Society of St. Francis de Sales in his honor in 1859—popularly known as the Salesians. Don Bosco established a network of organizations and centers to carry on his work.
The Salesian vocation is a gift of God rooted in baptism. It is a call to become, like Don Bosco, disciples of Christ and to form communities bearing witness to the Good Shepherd’s love for the young.
Its government is mainly founded on family spirit, according to the example and the teaching of Don Bosco, who on June 9, 1867, wrote to the Salesians in the Oratory asking them to “form a family of brothers close to their father.”
About The Salesians. In 1872, Don Bosco and St Mary Mazzarello founded the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians - the Salesian Sisters - to support and befriend disadvantaged girls and young women and offer them an education, skills and a home.
Don Bosco created spaces where young people felt welcomed and had a sense of belonging. He made sure these spaces had four key qualities – qualities which continue to define our work today. The feel of HOME – a secure space and a positive family experience.
In 1859 they form an official society, the “Salesians of Don Bosco”. Don Bosco names the congregation after Saint Francis de Sales. He was a 17th-century bishop of Geneva, known for his kindness and gentleness. Don Bosco wants his Salesians to act in this way whilst carrying out his vision.
