Abstract

St. Giovanni Bosco (1815 – 1888) is famous for his involvement in education of young people, based on a preventive system. It is well known that in his times he was a very keen worshipper of God’s Mother, especially the One called Mary Help of Christians (Maria Auxilium Christianorum).  The author of this article asks if there are mutual relations between education in a preventive spi- rit as proposed by don Bosco and his piety to Mary. Looking for the answer he initially briefly de- scribes a historical context of the life and the activities of the saint. He also outlines elements of don Bosco’s educational system. Then he stops over Mary’s service of don Bosco. He recalls its origin and points to don Bosco’s basic convictions. After that he focuses on the presentation of don Bosco’s ser- vice to the Immaculate and Mary Help of Christians. In both cases, he emphasizes their impact on edu- cation of young people. The author closes his reflections showing educational potential, which could be obtained, by offering to children, young people and educators the well understood Mary’s Service.