The main objective of the Oratory, better known as 'Salesjani' (or 'Salezjani'), is to carry out activities in which it is possible to promote the human and Christian education of the young. The Oratory, founded in 1908, embraces several sub groups, each with its own specialization.

An original inspiration

Don Bosco's Oratory, which took its name from an already existing institution, was different from those which had gone before or those contemporaneous with it. It is the changes brought about by don Bosco himself that still demonstrate even today the special features of oratorian ministry.

From providing merely a "service" of catechism to a presence and participation in the life of the young person with his/her needs and problems.

From a "part time" to a full-time, filling the whole of Sunday and extending into the weekdays through personal contacts and activities.

From a programme limited to catechesis to a potentially integrated educative and pastoral programme, games, other forms of youthful expression such as theatre, music and song.

From an adult centred institution to a community of young people centred on participation of youth, being together, open to all.

From a parish mentality to a missionary outlook, open to young people who did not even know what parish they belonged to, and who did not in the parish a reference point either for their religious life or for their human problems.