Abstract

The formation and development of new ecclesial movements responds to the call of the Magisterium of the Church for the laity to take on evangelizing activities in the modern world. One of the new movements which has sprung up in recent decades is Movimento Giovanile Salesiano. The movement is linked to the Association of St. Francis de Sales and refers to the spirituality and pedagogy of St. John Bosco. The activity of Movimento Giovanile Salesiano is directed towards youth. This article outlines the general ideas of the aforementioned movement and its activity on the basis of the example of one Salesian province. Ecclesial movements are regulated by law, although it should be emphasized that their spiritual element distinguishes them, and structures and legal solutions accompany their further stages of development. For ecclesial movements a regular point of reference is the norms of the Code of Canon Law from 1983, particularly the parts which deal with ecclesiastical associations. The aforementioned movement is not a very tight group because other various actors working on behalf of youth focus around this movement: associations, groups and other movements. Movimento Giovanile Salesiano does not have a single uniform legal structure, nor does it have a separate statute. The existence and mission of this movement is approved of and described by documents of the
Salesian Congregation i.e. General and Provincial Chapters. The main organizing element is the coordination and animation of the movement through the appointment of individuals and supervisory structures.