Fatherhood

Don Bosco used to test his boys of their worthiness to take the vows. At times, he would scrutinize their inner dispositions and the firmness of their vocation by depriving them of his benevolence. Such incident was narrated in 1865, by a so called late vocation who was preparing for his vows. “For some unknown reason I felt despondent and tired of living. Knowing that he often can read one's heart, I even examined my conscience to make sure I had done nothing reproachable. “Today he really put me to a severe test. He came with a gentleman to the printshop where I work. As he passed each typestand, the lads respectfully greeted him. For each he had an encouraging word, some praise, or a suggestion. I was hoping that he would finally take notice of me. As he passed near me, I too kissed his hand, intently looking at him, sure that he would console me. He completely ignored me as if I were not there at all. He must be really displeased with me, I thought. That's for sure! But what have I done? I could see that I was the only one he was ignoring. “Wounded more than I can tell, I sadly watched his progress as he continued his tour of the shop. At the far end he came across another lad. I am not trying to find fault with him, but this youngster seems to be rather thoughtless, emptyheaded and even unruly. To my surprise, Don Bosco stopped by him, introduced him to the visitor, and smilingly praised him. He then told the youngster to go back to his place. I resumed my proofreading but my eyes couldn't see a word; my mind was a perfect blank. I tried to concentrate, but in vain. “The printshop was on the main floor with some windows facing the playground. While I was so deeply distressed, I heard a light tap on the window pane above my head. I looked up in surpirse. Who was it? None other than Don Bosco! After leaving the shop, he decided to remember me and, with this token of fatherly affection, put an end to my trial. ‘Oh, it's you, Don Bosco!’ I gasped, joyfully bewildered. Waving at me very affectionately, he withdrew like a beautiful dream. I didn't know what to do or say. ‘Thanks, Don Bosco!’ I exclaimed, jumping up from my chair and throwing the window open. ‘Thanks for your kindness!’ He couldn't have heard me, but he turned and waved once more as if to say: ‘Goodbye, cheer up!’ “I was myself again. Don Bosco had sensed my need and met it with fatherly affection. I'll never forget the smile which set my heart at rest.” A certain number of applicants failed when put to a test, but others persevered. After testing those who wished to consecrate themselves to God for life or for three years, Don Bosco allowed them to take vows. BM Vol. 8, ch. 19, p.125-126

Keep in mind that Don Bosco was very much loved, especially by his boys. He kept a certain closeness to each of them, while at the same time, knowing his boundaries. At times, he would test them on account of their conscience, but this is always done with utmost care, putting in mind the salvation of the boys always first.

Article 21: Don Bosco our Model “The Lord has given us Don Bosco as father and teacher. ...He realized his aim with firmness, constancy and the sensitivity of a generous heart, in the midst of difficulties and fatigue. “He took no step, he said no word, he took up no task that was not directed to the saving of the young... Truly the concern of his heart was for souls.”