GLOBAL: Salesian Youth Ministry holds special tree-planting initiative as part of Season of Creation 2026
Youth delegates invited to organize activities in their communities
(MissionNewswire) The Salesian Youth Ministry sector held a special initiative known as the “Breath of Life Campaign” that was carried out during the final week of the Season of Creation, from Sept. 27 to Oct 4. The initiative entailed tree-planting promoted by the organizers of World Youth Day 2027.
According to the official World Youth Day website, “This is more than just an environmental initiative. It is a faithful act of preserving the order of creation and a concrete step toward carbon neutrality rooted in our belief in God.”
During an announcement about the campaign, Father Rafael Bejarano, general councilor for youth ministry, said, “I am happy to invite Salesian communities and institutions around the world, and especially members of the Salesian Youth Movement, to actively participate in the Breath of Life Campaign. Through this initiative, we can meaningfully celebrate the Season of Creation while, at the same time, beginning our preparation for World Youth Day 2027.”
Salesian Youth Ministry invited provincial youth ministry delegates to educate Salesian communities in their respective provinces and encouraged them to organize tree-planting activities.
Fr. Bejarano said, “Young people in our oratories, youth centers, parishes, schools and universities can all be encouraged to participate actively in this campaign. Tree-planting activities can be carried out on Salesian campuses or in any other suitable location.”
Among the actions proposed in the Season of Creation Celebration Guide 2026 were tree planting initiatives. The guide stated: “Let tree growing become an integral part of our spiritual lives. Trees absorb carbon pollution, prevent erosion, reduce flooding, provide food and medicine, and cool urban environments — they truly bring healing to the nations.”
A Salesian explained, “The planting and protection of trees is an important means to address the triple planetary crisis of climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution that the world is facing. Trees absorb carbon dioxide, helping to reduce greenhouse gas concentrations, while providing habitats and food for countless species. They also improve air quality, protect water resources and help create healthier communities. Although tree planting alone cannot solve these global challenges, restoring and expanding tree cover is an important contribution to building a healthier, more resilient planet.”
Salesians around the globe have made environmental stewardship a priority since Pope Francis published his Encyclical Laudato Si’, emphasizing the urgent need for environmental action. Many of the activities are led and inspired by Don Bosco Green Alliance, a global platform for ecological initiatives and activities.
Launched in 2018, Don Bosco Green Alliance is an active network where youth from Salesian institutions and organizations exchange ideas and work together to address the environmental challenges the world is facing.
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Sources:
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ANS – RMG – Youth Ministry Sector announces ‘Breath of Life’ Campaign
