In Solidarity with Those on the Margins

We are the Salesians of St. John Bosco—a global order of Catholic Priests, Brothers, Sisters and novices dedicated to improving the lives, circumstances and futures of some of the world’s most impoverished children and families.

Our approach to this work invokes the spiritual and pastoral legacy of our founder, Saint John “Don” Bosco, who aspired to bring young people to God—through his
unwavering belief in the power of education, the value of work, and the dignity of the individual. This legacy has similarly inspired Pope Francis, who was baptized by a Salesian priest, educated in a Salesian school, and encouraged in his vocation by the same Salesian priest who introduced his parents to each other.

“I have vowed my life to these poor little outcasts,” Don Bosco once said. “It is God’s will; the path He has traced out for me.”

That path endures today. Guided by the preventive system of education that Don Bosco pioneered, nearly 30,000 Salesians travel it together—with the young, and for the young, in more than 130 countries around the world.

On this historic occasion of Pope Francis’ visit to the United States, we celebrate the powerful bond that unites us on behalf of the poor, the disenfranchised and the most exploited among us. Together, we envision, and will continue to work for, a truly just society—one forever free from the chains of poverty and despair.

Get Involved

In a recent letter from Pope Francis to the Salesians, His Holiness recalled the “loving kindness” that was the hallmark of Don Bosco’s very being—a “love that is manifested and perceived, and reveals itself in caring, affection, understanding and involvement in the life of another person.”

The support of our friends is a concrete expression of that loving kindness—and brings our mission to life every day. Explore our website to learn more about how to join our family or the many ways to help.

Helping and inspiring
one another

PROVIDE LIFE-SAVING
WATER

So many children and families around the world lack access to clean water. Your monthly gift to our Clean Water Initiative will help build wells and supply fresh water to those who need it most.

Young girl drinking water

Let Us Pray For You

Join us in prayer. Take a moment to
submit your prayer intentions and light a
virtual candle.
"If we are one in heart, we can do ten times
as much."
- St. John Bosco

folded-hands