Evolving Through Salesian Virtues

Mass of the Holy Spirit: Salesian Reflection
Peter Gerace ‘24
Father Judge High School 2023

Good morning faculty and fellow crusaders. I’m here this morning to reflect on the year before us. The week after school ended in June, three of my classmates and I, along with Father Vince, traveled to Michigan for a week of  Salesian Leadership Camp. Throughout the week, we ate, prayed, and collaborated with our Salesian brothers and sisters from all over the country. From tubing on the lake to playing paintball, everyone uplifted each other and learned how to utilize individual strengths and weaknesses. One aspect we wanted to integrate into a part of our Mass was the Salesianum tradition of giving a reflection after Communion so that new tradition starts today. The main motto: “Be who you are and be that well” is the crux of Salesian Spirituality. 

Fr. Vince Smith, OSFS, at Father Judge High School 

To achieve that, we must be gentlemen, to have an open mind and an open heart to seek our true selves. Sometimes, we might have to venture outside of our comfort zone to gather life experiences and figure out more clearly who we are meant to be. Traveling halfway across the country and living with over 40 new people definitely wasn’t comfortable for me, but the bonds we formed with each other made it feel like I knew a lot of them forever. In this new year, we have an opportunity to put ourselves out there and be willing to look inward — to pay attention to our spirits. 

Throughout the year, we should try to evolve into better versions of ourselves. With each new endeavor we encounter, the more opportunities we have to learn something new about ourselves. To me, gentleness, compassion, and humility are the most critical Salesian virtues to build upon. It’s also important to emphasize the effect we, as individuals, can have on the people around us. Everyone has the potential to be a leader, but part of being a leader is to recognize your flaws and relish in your strengths. When we work collaboratively with each other, we are able to teach another where we fall short, and the other person can help us ascertain where we may be lacking. Overall, we all are a part of an unwavering brotherhood. 

Let’s take advantage of this opportunity for personal growth — To be who we are and be that well.