On October 12, the Salesian Cooperators of the St. Francis Xavier Province celebrated their traditional Opening of the Year, this time at the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Estíbaliz (Álava), during a day marked by fraternity, prayer and the spirit of the Salesian Family.

The gathering began at 10:00 a.m. and brought together around 50 participants, including Salesian Cooperators, Salesians of Don Bosco (SDB), Daughters of Mary Help of Christians (FMA) and friends of the Salesian Family from different Centres of the Province.

The gathering was enriched by the warm welcome and presence of the Pilgrim Sisters of the Eucharist, who received the participants on a particularly significant day, as the event coincided with the liturgical feast of Our Lady of Estíbaliz, patroness of Álava.

Throughout the morning, participants shared various moments of prayer and fellowship. Together with the Pilgrim Sisters and the sanctuary community, they celebrated the Holy Eucharist and later took part in a Marian procession and the recitation of the Holy Rosary around the sanctuary, entrusting the new year to the protection of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

The afternoon unfolded in an atmosphere of joy and closeness, providing an opportunity for the members of the Association to reconnect. During this time, the Provincial Council presented some of the main activities and initiatives planned for the year, encouraging everyone to continue growing in their Salesian vocation and in service to young people.

The day concluded with a sending-forth prayer, in which the participants entrusted the new year to Our Lady of Estíbaliz, asking for her intercession to accompany and guide the Association throughout the year.

Our Lady of Estíbaliz, pray for us.