Paul Formosa – Historical sketch of the oratory of Don Bosco in Malta

In this article, I will attempt to trace how Don Bosco’s original experience was translated in such a way that his work could be established in Malta – an island country in the Mediterranean with a distinct tradition and culture from that in which the Salesian story first began and developed in Turin, Italy. I will place special emphasis on the Salesian Oratory, Sliema.

The life span of the Oratory could be seen as the struggling of a charism to discern its role and be effective in catering for the needs of the young. The main emphasis here will be to explore how the Oratory managed to bring together both educators and young people in sharing the vision.

How effective were the Salesians in creating the family spirit which is indispensable to the charism? Has the Oratory in Sliema effectively offered young people a Christian education?

Contents:

• 1. The Oratory of Don Bosco in Malta: Ground Work
  • 1.1. The Men Who Made It Happen.
  • 1.2. A Society in Need
• 2. The Unfolding
  • 2.1. The Early Developments
  • 2.2. The Oratory At Last.
  • 2.3. The Lifestyle
• 3. Times of Crisis
  • 3.1. Right from the Start.
  • 3.2. Giving Stability
  • 3.3. World War II
  • 3.4. Post-War Administration
  • 3.5. Political Cross-Currents
  • 3.6. Oratory Attempts To Foster Unity
  • 3.7. Adjusting to Modern Society

Reference time period: 1861 – 1970

Reference institution:
Institute of Salesian Studies