Fr. John Christy SDB
Director – Salesian Youth Ministry

Salesian Province of Chennai – INM

Call to Embrace Don Bosco's Mission: Director's Message

Welcome to the Salesian Youth Ministry of Chennai Province! As you navigate our website, I extend a heartfelt invitation to join us in a mission that resonates with the spirit of Don Bosco and his unwavering belief in the potential of young people.

For us, Salesian Youth Ministry is not merely an activity; it's a vibrant and dynamic expression of our Educative and Pastoral Community. Inspired by Don Bosco's charismatic vision, we are committed to creating environments where young people can flourish, mature, discover their vocations, and encounter God in a meaningful way within the world.

We believe that true fulfilment originates in God, and we dedicate ourselves to helping young people achieve this fullness of life by becoming honest and responsible citizens, actively contributing to a healthy and humane future. Our approach is rooted in the Salesian spirit,  mphasizing reason, religion, and lovingkindness. We strive to build relationships based on trust and mutual respect, fostering a sense of  elonging and empowerment among young people. We aim to accompany them on their journey of self-discovery, providing guidance and support as they navigate the challenges and opportunities of adolescence and young adulthood.

Within our Educative and Pastoral Community, we offer a variety of programs and activities designed to cater to the diverse needs and interests of young people. These include:

Faith Formation: 

Opportunities for spiritual growth through prayer, sacraments, retreats, and faith-sharing groups. Educational Support Tutoring, mentoring, and vocational training programs to enhance academic and professional skills.

Recreational Activities: 

Sports, games, arts and crafts, and other engaging activities that promote teamwork, creativity, and healthy lifestyles.

Community Service: 

Opportunities to serve the poor and marginalized, fostering a sense of social responsibility and compassion.

Leadership Development: 

Programs designed to cultivate leadership skills, empowering young people to become agents of change in their communities.

Through these diverse initiatives, we seek to create a holistic and integrated approach to youth development, addressing the intellectual, emotional, social, and spiritual needs of each individual. Our ultimate goal is to empower young people to become active and engaged members of society, equipped with the skills, values, and faith necessary to build a better world. We envision a future where young people are not only successful in their personal lives but also committed to serving others and promoting the common good. We believe that by investing in the potential of young people, we are investing in the future of humanity.

"We are dedicated to providing comprehensive development opportunities, empowering young people to become responsible and engaged members of society. Our approach encompasses a wide spectrum of activities and initiatives designed to cater to diverse needs and aspirations.

These include youth centers that offer safe spaces for recreation, learning, and social interaction; educational institutions ranging from schools and colleges to technical and polytechnic institutes, equipping young individuals with valuable skills for the future. We also run non-formal technical training programs, ensuring access to practical knowledge for those seeking alternative pathways to employment.

Recognizing the unique challenges faced by some young people, we operate specialized centres for youth at risk and drop-in centres to assist the young migrants offering support and guidance to help them to face the challenges and overcome adversities. Our social intervention programs focus on young people in conflict with the law, providing rehabilitation and reintegration assistance. Furthermore, we establish village integral animation centres, fostering community development and empowerment at the grassroots level.

We understand the importance of media literacy in today's world, and therefore run media training centers to equip young people with the skills to navigate the digital landscape responsibly. Our psychological service and wellness centers provide mental health support and promote overall well-being. Additionally, we offer safe and supportive homes for young people facing challenging circumstances.

Our commitment extends beyond specific programs and initiatives. We actively collaborate with local communities, contributing to their overall advancement. Our youth ministry embraces all young people, regardless of their background, beliefs, or cultural heritage, with a particular focus on supporting the most vulnerable and marginalized. We strive to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where every young person can thrive and reach their full potential, becoming a positive force for change in the world. We believe in empowering the next generation to build a brighter future for themselves and their communities."

As Salesians, we embrace collaboration. We work hand-in-hand with the local Church, sharing our pedagogical and catechetical expertise to serve young people effectively. Our retreat houses provide spaces for Christian formation, particularly for youth groups, and we are always open to exploring new avenues to reach and support young people in need.

Our strength lies in our unity and shared responsibility. From the provincial level to local communities, each member plays a vital role in achieving our pastoral objectives. We are guided by dialogue and teamwork, ensuring that our apostolic plan is executed with fidelity and a common purpose.

Don Bosco's mission has transcended geographical boundaries, reaching 137 countries and 12 regions in South Asia. The Salesian Youth Ministry of Chennai Province stands as a strong and dedicated force, committed to setting benchmarks and developing effective strategies for animation and apostolic action.

We invite you to become a part of this extraordinary journey. Whether you are a friend, supporter, or someone seeking to make a difference in the lives of young people, your involvement is invaluable. Explore our website, learn about our initiatives, and discover how you can contribute to Don Bosco's enduring legacy. Together, we can empower young people to realize their full potential and become positive agents of change in the world.

Thank you for visiting, and we look forward to welcoming you into the Salesian family