In May 2009, a group of Salesian Volunteers embarked upon a pilgrimage to Mornese and Turin to mark and celebrate 20 years of VIDES being a registered charity. The group were lead around both places by Sr. Pat Devine-a wealth of knowledge and full of enthusiasm that soon rubbed off on everybody there!

The highlight of the week was having the Valponasca all to ourselves for the day- truely sacred ground. The group found the experience very enriching and all felt it was definitely something that should be repeated so watch this space! View photos

20th ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS 

On the 19th September volunteers past and present got together in Liverpool to celebrate 20 years as a registered charity in the UK. The theme, Eternal Flame, encouraged people to recognise the journey VIDES has made. The day centred around a mass of thanksgiving during which stories of old and new experiences were shared.

Sr. Leonor, the VIDES International Delegate from Rome joined us for the day to mark this special occasion. She spent time talking to volunteers and closed the day with a thought which challenged volunteers to keep the flame of VIDES alive.

The day was a reminder of the difference VIDES has made to the lives of many people over the last 20 years

 Salesian Spirituality Training Programme

In November, a small group of volunteers started upon a new journey. They began a course of three weekends based on Salesian Spirituality. With open minds, they arrived on the Friday evening completely unaware of what the weekend was going to entail or indeed what the outcome would be.
They didn’t have to worry. The weekend was a huge success! The days were split into 8 sessions all based on different aspects of Salesianity. Sessions included Mary Mazzerello, Don  Bosco, St Francis De Sales and Youth Spirituality to name a few. There was input in each session and then reading and group activities.
The volunteers who took part all agreed that they came apprehensive, willing to listen and eager to find out more. They left on the Sunday feeling enthused challenged and more aware of the true value of following Salesian ways.