The Salesians of Don Bosco
A religious congregation of priests and brothers dedicated to the service of the young, especially the poor and abandoned.
The Salesians of Don Bosco (SDB) were founded in the 19th century by Saint John Bosco, an Italian priest who dedicated his life to the education and evangelization of young people. Today, his mission continues through thousands of Salesians serving in over 130 countries worldwide.
At the core of Salesian work is the Preventive System, a pedagogical approach based on three pillars:
- Reason: Engaging with young people through dialogue and understanding, appealing to their intelligence and common sense.
- Religion: Fostering a deep, personal relationship with God as the foundation of a meaningful life.
- Loving-Kindness (Amorevolezza): A heartfelt, visible love for the young, creating a family spirit of trust and affection.
"Work, prayer, and cheerfulness."
- A Salesian Motto
Here in Nairobi, the Salesian community is composed of priests, brothers, and a vast network of lay collaborators who bring the spirit of Don Bosco to life every day. We live in community, sharing our lives of prayer and work, all for the benefit of the young people entrusted to our care.
The Founder: St. John Bosco
St. John Bosco (1815-1888), affectionately known as Don Bosco, was an Italian Roman Catholic priest, educator, and writer of the 19th century. While working in Turin, a city burgeoning with the Industrial Revolution, he was confronted with the poverty and abandonment of young boys who flocked to the city for work.
Moved by their plight, he dedicated his life to them, creating the Oratory—a place that was a home, a school, a church, and a playground. His educational philosophy, the Preventive System, was a revolutionary approach based on love rather than punishment. Don Bosco's legacy lives on through the Salesian Family, which continues his mission for youth all over the world.