St. John Melchior Bosco, lovingly known as Don Bosco, was a priest, educator, and tireless champion of young people. Born on 16 August 1815 in Becchi, Italy, he grew up in poverty and hardship after losing his father early in life. These experiences shaped his deep empathy for poor and abandoned youth and inspired a mission that continues to touch lives across the world-including here in Goa.
As a young priest in 19th-century Italy, Don Bosco encountered large numbers of boys who were homeless, unemployed, and vulnerable to exploitation. Instead of responding with punishment, he chose compassion. He believed that young people flourish when they are trusted, guided, and loved. This belief formed the foundation of his Preventive System of Education, based on Reason, Religion, and Loving-kindness.
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