On Sunday, June 29, 2025, 27 young Salesians in formation renewed their religious vows at the Scolasticate of Don Bosco Kabgayi.
The celebration commenced with a Eucharistic celebration at 11:15 a.m., presided over by Fr. Gabriel Ngendakuriyo, the Provincial of the Salesians of Don Bosco in the Africa Great Lakes Province (AGL). The Mass brought together the Salesian community, members of the wider Church, religious sisters and lay collaborators. The choir uplifted the assembly with solemn chants embodying the Salesian charism of joy.
Among the 27 confreres who renewed their vows:
Twenty-four confreres renewed their vows for one or two years, in accordance with the provisions of the Constitutions. Three confreres renewed their vows for 15 days. These three will pronounce their perpetual vows on 5 July in a solemn celebration at Gatenga. As the term of their last temporary vows expired on 29 June, according to the provisions of the Church, a consecrated person is not allowed to remain ‘without vows’ for a certain period, hence this ‘bridge’ of a few days between 29 June and 5 July.
The highlight of the liturgy came with Fr. Gabriel Ngendakuriyo’s homily, which offered a pastoral reflection on the meaning of the religious vows.
Chastity: A Heart with Space for All
Fr. Gabriel emphasized that Chastity is not a denial of love, but rather its radical transformation. “To live chastity,” he said, “is to possess a heart where everyone finds a place—a heart purified from possessiveness, open to universal love.” In a world marked by self-centered relationships and emotional closures, the vow of chastity becomes a prophetic witness to the freedom to love universally, without exclusivity or self-interest. This chastity is not cold detachment, but warm hospitality—a Salesian must be, above all, a “loving presence” among the young, reflecting the welcoming heart of Christ.
Poverty: A Life of Generosity and Shared Mission
In addressing the vow of Poverty, Fr. Gabriel dismantled the image of poverty as mere material lack. Rather, he portrayed it as a radical availability. “Nothing we have is our own,” he stressed. “Everything the Salesians possess—schools, chapels, playgrounds, oratories—are not private properties but gifts entrusted for the service of the young.” Salesian poverty, then, is a call to detachment, not for its own sake, but for the sake of mission. It frees the consecrated person from the chains of ownership and opens him to a life of service, simplicity, and solidarity with the poor.
Obedience: Trusting the Path God Provides
In speaking of Obedience, Fr. Gabriel drew a powerful image: that of a soldier of Christ, ready to move without complaint when called. He reminded the congregation that religious obedience is not blind submission, but humble listening and prompt action, rooted in faith that God speaks through legitimate superiors. “Religious are sent,” he said, “not where they prefer, but where they are needed. You may be asked to leave your comfort zone—but you go, not because it’s easy, but because the mission is urgent and the Lord is with you.”
His exhortation to the confreres was clear and fatherly: “Live the vows you have renewed”.
After the Mass, the community gathered for a fraternal lunch. True to the spirit of Don Bosco, it was not only a moment to eat together, but to celebrate our family spirit.
On this 29th June, the Feast of Saints Peter and Paul, two apostles who gave everything for the Gospel—the Salesians of Kabgayi have renewed not only their vows, but also the Church’s hope in consecrated life, alive, young, and vibrant in Africa.
May Mary Help of Christians and Don Bosco accompany them in fidelity, courage, and love, as they continue their journey of formation, ready to serve the young wherever Providence leads them.
Richard Mugasho Dickson, sdb.
