Under the motto “Vocation, path and commitment of the Salesian Cooperators,” on October 28 and 29, at the Casa María Auxiliadora in Callajchullpa, Cochabamba, the national meeting of Aspirants and Supporters of the Salesian Cooperators was held. Around twenty-five people participated in this event, including local trainers.

The central objective of this meeting was to motivate the aspirants in their process of personal discernment in relation to the vocation of Salesian Cooperators. The aim was to awaken in them a deep desire to commit their lives to the work of God and the Salesian work, following the spirit of Don Bosco.

The event began with messages of encouragement from a distance from prominent members of the Salesian Family, such as the world delegate, Fr. Joan Lluís Playà, the general councilor for the Salesian Family of the FMA, Sister Leslye Sándigo, Sister Rosario Lourdes, FMA delegate for the Salesian family and SS.CC., who were in El Salvador at that time. After praying Lauds, the participants were divided into two groups. One group focused on first-year supporters and applicants (initiation), who, accompanied by the provincial coordinator Jaime Rojas, explored the history of the Association and its context, understanding the challenges that enrich the first steps in the vocation.

On the other hand, the second and third year aspirants (deepening and decision), accompanied by Viviana Deheza, provincial councilor for the secretariat, reflected on the lay vocation in the church and the call to become Salesian Cooperators active in the Association.

The afternoon began with greetings from the Provincial, Fr. Líder Justiniano, and Deliana Almendras, world advisor for the South Caribbean Pacific region, who inspired the participants to respond to God’s call. Then he gave way to Limbert Váquez, former national coordinator of the Association, who shared his testimony as a layman committed to the church and Salesian work. Father Dámaso Nina, delegate for the Salesian Family in Bolivia, highlighted the role of the layman in the life of the Church and his responsibilities as an active Christian.

In the final stage of the meeting, Father Juan Aparicio, delegate for the Salesian Cooperators, delved into the Salesian Spirit, remembering the “dream of diamonds” and highlighting the virtues and values of the Salesian, with special emphasis on obedience to the plan of God, in line with the Charter of Identity of the Salesian Family. This moment prompted deep personal reflection.

The meeting culminated with a celebration of the Eucharist presided over by Father Juan