January 31 is the feast day of Saint John Bosco
January 31 is the feast day of Saint John Bosco, also known as Don Bosco, in honor of the Italian saint who dedicated his life to the education, evangelization and care of young people, especially the most vulnerable.
Born on August 16, 1815, in Castelnuovo d'Asti, Italy, John Bosco founded the Society of Saint Francis de Sales (known as the Salesians), with the aim of educating and forming young people through faith, work and leisure. He was also responsible for founding the Institute of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians, a congregation dedicated to the education of women, and for spreading devotion to Mary Help of Christians.
Don Bosco is widely recognized for his educational method based on the so-called Preventive System, which combines love, reason and spirituality to create a healthy and welcoming environment for young people. His work continues to influence schools, oratories and institutions around the world.
January 31 was chosen to celebrate his memory because it marks the anniversary of his death in 1888, considered a date of passage to sainthood. He was canonized in 1934 by Pope Pius XI, becoming one of the most revered saints in the Church.
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