First Meeting of the renewed ADMA Council

Turin (Italy). On 13 November 2021 in Turin-Valdocco, the first meeting of the renewed ADMA Presidency Council was held, following the elections held on 24 October 2021, during the 31^st Marian Day.

The new Council and the outgoing one participated in the Eucharistic Celebration in the Basilica of Mary Help of Christians, to entrust the journey of the Association to Mary.

After a brief moment of celebration, the Council met to begin work starting from a reflection on the associative path of the last four years left by the outgoing Council, with an eye to the future, considering what is important to preserve, what is needed to grow, the points to devote attention to, and the projects undertaken.

Among the resonances, some aspects emerged that unite all the members of the ADMA Groups, from Valdocco to the whole world: entrustment to Mary, the centrality of the journey of faith anchored to the two columns, Jesus Eucharist and Mary, simplicity in style and in the organization, the centrality of communion in relationships, hospitality, the importance of prayer and formation, the accompaniment of families and young people with their families, attention to vulnerable people and the popular dimension, strengthening of identity and of the Salesian charism. These elements constitute a heritage to be preserved and given.

The first meeting was also an opportunity to proceed, under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, with the division of duties among the new Councilors, conceived from a perspective of service to the mission, but above all as an expression of the willingness to be accompanied wherever Mary wishes:

President: Renato Valera; Vice-president: Chiara Audasso; Treasurer: Paolo Peirone; Secretariat: Maria Pia Gallo; Communication advisor: Chiara Audasso; Councilor for youth ministry and the family: Beppe Sardella; Councilor for formation: Tullio Lucca; Adviser for the animation and promotion of ADMA worldwide; Giovanni Scavino, Advisor for the coordination and animation of local ADMA Italia realities Paolo Peirone; Councilors for the animation of the local ADMA in Valdocco: Tullio Lucca and Luciana Bianchetti.

The journey of the Association of Mary Help of Christians and the work of the lay Councilors is accompanied by Fr. Alejandro Guevara, Salesian of Don Bosco, ADMA World Animator; Fr. Roberto Carelli, SDB, who takes care of family pastoral care and formation; Sr. Lucrecia Uribe, Daughter of Mary Help of Christians, ADMA World Animator; Sr. Marilena Balcet, FMA, Delegate for Piedmont.

Each Councilor will give particular attention and responsibility towards a specific area, in reciprocity with the other members, forming a work team that will help the Association to grow ever more in faith, in love for Mary, and in service to others.