1872-2022 “Mary Walks in this House” Celebrating 150 Years
The worldwide Institute of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians (also known as the Salesian Sisters) celebrated its 150th anniversary on August 5th, 2022! We were founded in 1872 in Mornese, Italy. This anniversary marks the culmination of three years of preparation with each year focusing on words from our co-foundress St. Mary Domenica Mazzarello.
- 2019-2020 Give thanks: “Let us truly thank the Lord who gives us many graces.”
- 2020-2021 Accept the mandate: “I entrust them to you.”
- 2021-2022 Plan the future boldly: “Courage! Let us go ahead with a great and generous heart.”
With the direct intervention of Mary Help of Christians, the Salesian charism has spread throughout the world as a gift of the Holy Spirit to the Church and the salvation of young people. We currently have over 11,000 Salesian Sisters around the world. This anniversary reminds us to renew our gratitude to God for His fidelity and to plan for the future with hope!
Celebrations for the 150th anniversary, within the Province of St. Joseph (located in the Eastern United States and Canada), have included:
- A Virtual Youth Summit with young people from around the world
- A Mornese retreat experience for young adult and high schoolers
- A Salesian Family pilgrimage including significant FMA sites in June/July
- And various regional gatherings within the province
We thank Mary Help of Christians for walking among us – as a Mother and Helper – and being an active presence in our communities and ministries. She strengthens our commitment to educate the young and be a “sign and expression of God’s forseeing love among young people.” (Constitutions of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians, Article 1)
