During the months of January and February 2025, the Mary Help of Christians Province enthusiastically and joyfully celebrated the traditional Zone Meetings and the Pinardi Meetings, key moments in the associative life of the Salesian Cooperators. These meetings, framed within the course theme “Driven to Be,” were spaces for fraternity, formation, and renewal of vocational commitment, strengthening the sense of belonging and shared mission.

The Zone Meetings took place in different locations in the province: Mérida, Pozoblanco, Úbeda, Marbella, Rota, and Seville, bringing together the local centers from each zone. These meetings, essential for community life, allow for sharing experiences, strengthening co-responsibility, and deepening the Salesian identity. Particularly significant moments were celebrated during these sessions, such as the making of Promises by new brothers, with a total of 27 new Salesian Cooperators joining the Association, and the presentation of Silver Insignia to nine brothers and sisters, in recognition of 25 years of fidelity to Don Bosco’s charism. Each day combined spaces for formation, prayer, and fellowship, allowing participants to feel “driven” to continue growing in their vocation and commitment.

For their part, the Pinardi Meetings, held from February 21 to 23 in Sanlúcar La Mayor, are a fundamental part of the Association’s formation process, in accordance with the Protocol for monitoring initial formation and admission. These meetings, carefully organized for aspirants and members in discernment, are structured into three main spaces: the Aspirants’ Meeting, the Prayer Meeting, and the Spiritual Exercises of Discernment. For the 35 aspirants who participated, it was a privileged opportunity to deepen their vocational journey, sharing experiences and renewing their call to be an active part of the Association. The spiritual exercises, for their part, provided moments of silence, listening, and personal encounter with God, essential elements in the discernment process that the Association promotes with close and respectful accompaniment. Fourteen aspirants from different regions participated in these retreats.

These gatherings not only consolidate the formation and personal commitment of the members, but also strengthen communion between centers and regions, creating a fraternal atmosphere where joy, prayer, and shared mission intertwine. With our eyes set on the celebration of the Association’s 150th anniversary next year, these moments of encounter and formation continue to be at the heart of our associative life, encouraging us to live with joy and fidelity the charism inherited from Don Bosco.