The 31st and last day of January is designated for the celebration of the feast of St. John Bosco, the father and teacher of the youth.
John Bosco also referred to as Don Bosco, was beatified on June 2, 1929 and later canonized by Pope Pius XI, on the Easter Sunday of 1934 and given the title, “father and teacher of the youth”. Before, Don Bosco, an Italian, served as a Catholic priest. During his ministry, he visited prisoners, teaching catechism and helping out at country parishes.
According to Sancta Catholica, the celebrated saint “founded the Salesians of Don Bosco, a religious order devoted to the education and evangelization of youth, and also championed education of girls.”
In marking the feast of John Bosco, the gospel of Mark says that the kingdom of God is like a ‘mustard seed sown in the ground and later springs up and becomes the largest of the plants and puts forth large branches, so that birds can dwell in its shade.’
Fr Emmanuel Idakwo of the Capuchin missionaries, says that the kingdom of God grows like the mustard seed and that Christians more so the youth, need to remain patient and faithful as they sow the seeds of love, kindness, goodness and truth.
“We pray to God to help us in His divine plan, knowing that even the smallest acts of goodness can bear great fruit.” He continues, “Like the mustard seed that grows into a great tree, may our faith and our works bring shelter, hope and encouragement to those in need.” Fr Idakwo shared on his socials.
The Capuchin priest also called on the world, through the intercession of Saint John Bosco, to take roles as mentors and teachers of the youthful generation. He adds that the youth can only remain buoyant and align with Godly conduct if they are lifted up and guided.
The youth are also called to walk in the footsteps of St. John Bosco, dedicate their lives and gather passion in serving mankind. He reminds them to enjoy every moment in their lives but be cautious not to indulge in sinful acts in the process.
St. John Bosco, in one of his quotes, “When in danger or in need, have recourse to Mary. The Blessed Virgin has always helped me and will always do so.” This is a clarion call to the young adults to embrace praying the Holy Rosary, which draws out their desires to God and also help calm them down when facing struggles.
