Three Directives

It was June 3, 1886. Don Bosco was expected at the school at Lanzo for the closing of their Marian devotions and the commemoration of St. Philip Neri, the school's patron. Before setting off from Turin, Don Bosco wrote to two lads - Gregory Garofoli and Emmanuel Fassati - pupils at the Jesuit boarding school in Mongre, France: Turin, June 1, 1866 Dear Gregory, I was delighted at your letter and passed your news on to the boys you met at Tortona. They were very pleased to hear from you and send their thanks and greetings. I would certainly enjoy a little talk with you, but what I'd like to tell you cannot be put down in writing. Come to see me during the summer vacation, and I will tell you then. As I am very interested in your spiritual welfare, I will give you three most important keepsakes: 1. Shun idleness. 2. Avoid foulmouthed companions and bad counselors. 3. Go to confession and Communion fervently and fruitfully. Kindly remember me to your two brothers, to Emmanuel Callori, and to the other Piedmontese lads there who know me. God bless you and keep you in His holy grace. Pray for me. Affectionately in the Lord, Father John Bosco BM chap. 33, p. 180

Keep in mind that Don Bosco’s brand of fatherhood was that of a firm but understanding father. He didn't want the devil to be a part of any youngster’s life. For this, he tirelessly and inexcusably exhorted everyone to the virtue of purity, and of love for the sacraments.

Article 18: Work and Temperance “...The Salesian gives himself to his mission with tireless energy, taking care to do everything with simplicity and moderation. He knows that by his work, he is participating in the creative action of God and cooperating with Christ in building the Kingdom...”