ILS celebrates Don Bosco Day every year January 31st which is his feast day. It is a day full of fun activities and practicing his Salesian Oratory Model which is to build a church, a home, school, and a playground. We celebrate Don Bosco day because we are a Salesian family.

“I love Don Bosco day. I like it how our whole school unites as one,” said sophomore Sophie Cini. 

Sarah Dhager, also a sophomore, said she really enjoyed Don Bosco Day and all the activities.

San Giovanni Melchior, which is his full name, was born August 16, 1815 in Italy. As a young child, he worked on his family farm and didn’t receive a formal education. His father died just when he was two-years-old and was left with his mother and his two older brothers. As a young boy, he would would see circus shows and magic tricks. He eventually taught himself these tricks and did them for his friends. He felt that he was called to the priesthood, but didn’t have the right education. A priest helped him with some basic education.  

He became ordained a priest in 1841. He dedicated his life to helping young boys who were troubled and orphaned. He opened oratories for them to keep them out of trouble. He provided an education, a home, religious activisties, and a playground for them. He used the magic tricks he learned to get the crowds’ attention. 

Don Bosco founded the Society of St. Francis de Sales, which is also known as the Salesians of Don Bosco in 1859. Since his oratory was only for boys, he founded the Salesian Sisters of Don Bosco with St. Mary Mozzarella.  

He was canonized in 1934 by Pope Pius XI, who knew Don Bosco as a young priest. Don Bosco is the patron Saint of the city of Brasilia, and the Saint of Youth.