The Salesian Provincial Youth Council recently went on a transformative retreat that left an impact on its members. Two participants, Sophia Bosco and Emma Trombly, share their reflections on meeting Mother Chiara, the Salesian Sisters’ leadership, and the spiritual moments they experienced during this life-changing journey.
Q: How was the overall atmosphere of the retreat? Did it feel like a transformative experience?
“The meeting that the youth council had with Mother Chiara was absolutely amazing. We were able to present our ideas to her on how to help students in our Salesian schools. Her words of wisdom were absolutely amazing to hear, and her advice was great. It was an experience that I’ll never forget.”
Bosco emphasized that the retreat offered more than just a momentary spiritual boost. The entire experience was filled with meaning, from personal interactions to group presentations.
Q: Can you describe the moment you met Mother Chiara? What were your first impressions?
“As soon as I met Mother Chiara, I felt so much peace. Her presence was very calming, and she gave me a hug the first time I met her. She even arrived with a police escort, adding to the uniqueness and specialness of the moment.”
Bosco’s first encounter with Mother Chiara left her in awe, because of Mother Chiara’s genuine warmth and peaceful presence. A simple hug from Mother Chiara became a lasting memory for Bosco, symbolizing the care she embodies.
Q: Looking back on the retreat and the meeting, how do you think it has shaped you moving forward?
“Meeting Mother Chiara has absolutely changed my life for the better. I learned about how much all of the Sisters and members of the Salesian family really do support each other. I cannot wait to be a part of this incredible support system.”
For Bosco, the retreat wasn’t just an isolated experience; it became a turning point in her spiritual and personal growth. She left the retreat inspired by the Salesian community’s unity and the possibility of being part of something much larger.
Q: Can you describe some of the activities or sessions during the retreat that made a lasting impression on you?
“Some activities during the retreat that made a lasting impression on me were the Mass we had with Mary Help’s choir providing the music, and our presentation and talk with Mother General. The choir from Mary Help was truly beautiful and enhanced my experience at Mass, showing me that the Holy Spirit is really alive in the Mass. The most impactful moment, however, was Mother General’s wisdom after we presented our concerns for this generation. The way she spoke and what she said was so wise and impactful, it brought me to tears. I will remember it forever.”
For Trombly, the combination of beautiful music and wise counsel made the retreat especially memorable. The experience showed her that faith is alive in moments of worship and that leadership grounded in spirituality has a huge influence.
Q: Can you describe the moment you met Mother General? What were your first impressions?
“When I met Mother General, and just simply saw her in person for the first time, I was in awe! She simply lit up wherever she would walk, the Holy Spirit within her glowing. I was surprised by how genuinely thoughtful and caring her approach was. She seemed like a Mother for all, gentle and kind. I guess I was expecting a less-intimate first impression, but she was humble, joyful, and kind. She gave everyone a hug, and when I hugged her, I could feel her love through me and peace wash over me. This was truly a life-changing moment I will never forget.”
Trombly’s first encounter with Mother General left her speechless. The warmth and humility that radiated from Mother Chiara transformed the experience from a formal meeting to a deep, personal connection.
Q: Do you think the experience will have a long-term effect on your career or personal life? How so?
“I think this experience will have a long-term effect on my career. I knew I wanted to do something along the lines of my faith. After this trip, I have been inspired to one day lead and bring people together, and to God, like Mother General. Seeing all of the sisters come together as one big family and sisterhood was so beautiful, and I hope to one day bring people together out of love and faith like that too.”
For Trombly, this retreat provided not just spiritual guidance but also inspiration. The sense of community and leadership that she witnessed during the trip reaffirmed her desire to work within her faith and bring people together in a spirit of love and unity.
For both Sophia and Emma, the Salesian Provincial Youth Council retreat was more than a trip. It was a life-changing experience. Through personal encounters with Mother Chiara, the participants gained wisdom, felt love, and were inspired to embrace these experiences into their lives. The retreat serves as a reminder of the power of faith, community, and compassionate leadership.
