Don Bosco

Biography of Don Bosco

St. John Bosco, also known as Don Bosco ("Don" is a title given to priests in Italy), born Giovanni Melchiorre Bosco on August 16, 1815, in Becchi, Italy, was an influential Roman Catholic priest, educator, and writer known for his work with disadvantaged youth. His lifelong mission was to provide children and young adults with the educational and spiritual foundation to lead successful and upright lives.

Early life and education

Giovanni was the youngest son of Francesco Bosco and Margherita Occhiena. Tragedy struck early when his father died, leaving his mother to raise him and his two elder brothers alone. Despite the family's financial struggles, Margherita ensured that Giovanni received a basic education and instilled in him strong Christian values.

Driven by a calling to the priesthood, Bosco entered the seminary. His education was intermittently paused due to financial constraints, but he persevered and was ordained in 1841. His focus during these formative years sharpened towards helping boys who were left impoverished by the industrial revolution in Turin.

Work and achievements

After ordination, Don Bosco dedicated himself to the education and welfare of street children, juvenile delinquents, and other disadvantaged youth in the city of Turin. He established a night school for apprentices and opened his home as a refuge for the young and destitute. Bosco's educational philosophy was revolutionary, emphasizing love over punishment, which was a stark contrast to the harsh measures prevalent in the reformatories of the time.

In 1859, Bosco founded the Salesian Society, named after Saint Francis de Sales, renowned for his kind and gentle demeanor. The Society's mission was to continue his work through a network of educational institutions. It quickly spread beyond Italy, becoming one of the largest missionary organizations in the world.

Later years and legacy

Don Bosco was also a prolific writer and publisher, focusing on educational materials and devotional writings that furthered his pedagogical ideals. His efforts were recognized by the Church, and he received support from many quarters, including Pope Pius IX.



He died on January 31, 1888, in Turin and was canonized as a saint in the Roman Catholic Church in 1934 by Pope Pius XI. His legacy lives on through the Salesians, who continue to operate schools and youth centers worldwide.

Key highlights

• Birth and early life: Born in 1815 in Becchi, Italy, faced early hardship with the death of his father.
• Ordination: Became a priest in 1841, dedicating his life to the education and betterment of disadvantaged youth.
• Educational philosophy: Pioneered a system based on love and moral persuasion rather than punishment.
• Founding of the Salesian Society: Established in 1859, it has grown into a global organization devoted to education and care of young people.
• Death and canonization: Died in 1888; canonized as a saint in 1934.
• Lasting impact: Salesian Society continues to be a significant force in global education and youth development.

Don Bosco's story is a remarkable example of dedication to the betterment of society's most vulnerable. His work and the movement he founded remain pivotal in the lives of millions around the world, demonstrating the enduring power of compassion and education.

For more details on the life of St. John Bosco, also known as Don Bosco, check out the previous post, Feast of Don Bosco.