St. John Bosco Relic - Visayas Pilgrimage

A Spiritual Icon of Today

One of the great saints of modern times is St. John Bosco. He was an Italian Catholic priest, educator and writer of the 19th century who dedicated his life to the betterment and education of poor youngsters and employing teaching methods based on love rather than punishment.

Following the spirituality and philosophy of St. Francis of Sales, he founded the Salesian Congregation to help the young become upright citizens and good Christians. When he was younger, he would put on shows of his skills as a juggler, magician and acrobat. He gained a reputation early on of being a saint and miracle worker.

When he died on January 31, 1888, his funeral was attended by thousands. He was canonized on Easter Sunday of 1934 and was given the title “Father and Teacher of Youth".” He is also the patron saint of editors, youths, school children, students, magicians, apprentices and young workers

Visayas Pilgrimage

In preparation for the August 16, 2015, celebration of the 200th anniversary of his birth, his relic will go on a World Tour in 130 countries.

In the Philippines, the pilgrimage will start in Bacolod on December 5; then it will head to Mambucal, Victorias, Kabankalan and Dumaguete. And from December 12-23, the relic and the pilgrimage will stay in Cebu. By December 23, it will head up north to Metro Manila. The arrival of the relic is part of its world tour that kicked off from Valdocco, Italy, on April 25, 2009.

The relic consists of St. John Bosco’s right hand carefully preserved inside a sealed case and inserted at the chest of lifelike wax replica of the saint. This is transported in a light truck specifically made for the occasion driven by Italian chauffeurs for the duration of its worldwide journey. Fr. Pascual Chavez, the Rector Major of the Salesians of Don Bosco had directed the worldwide pilgrimage “to renew the desire to know and love the Father and Teacher of Youth and reignite the passion and mission for the young.” 

Don't miss the chance to see the relic of Saint John Bosco as it will be brought in the province. This is no ordinary visitation for it doesn't happen all the time..