Community mural created as symbol of Salesian identity

(MissionNewswire) The Chicos de la Calle Salesian Project Foundation–North Coast celebrated the conclusion of the collaborative project developed in partnership with the Salesian Polytechnic University based in Quito, Ecuador. The initiative, which lasted five months, strengthened the educational, community, and pastoral work that the foundation carries out with youth and their families in Salesian centers in Santo Domingo and Esmeraldas.

The project consisted of several activities. The university’s psychology department held workshops for youth, promoting emotional well-being and strengthening life skills. The education sciences degree program provided education and reflection opportunities for educators and mothers, reinforcing the holistic support provided to those involved. The multimedia design department created a community mural that will remain as a symbol of Salesian identity and mission.

The project’s closing event took place at Mother of the Savior Reference Center in Esmeraldas, where university officials, lecturers, students, educators, beneficiaries and families came together.

During the program, lecturer Ricardo Moreno, from the multimedia design degree program, emphasized that every element of the mural was created through a participatory process, resulting in a genuine joint effort.

The mural features St. John Bosco as its central figure, flanked by key figures from the Church and the Salesian Congregation such as Pope Leo XIV and Father Fabio Attard, rector major of the Salesians. They are alongside various Salesians and laypeople who bring the Salesian mission to life by supporting youth in need and contributing to the development of the Salesian project in Esmeraldas.

The artwork also represents the essence of Don Bosco’s Preventive System, through the courtyard where youth grow alongside their friends, the school that educates, and the church that transforms. Also represented is the Afro-Esmeraldan cultural heritage reflected in the marimba and music, symbols of the local population’s identity.

Father Robert García, director of the foundation, expressed his deep gratitude to the Salesian Province and the university for believing in this initiative and making the project possible. He acknowledged the commitment of the lecturers and students in the multimedia design course, who devoted a week’s work to creating a mural that will remain as a legacy of hope and identity for the Salesian work.

During the closing ceremony, he said, “Don Bosco taught us that education is a matter of the heart. Today you are showing us that art educates, evangelizes and transforms lives. This mural not only beautifies our spaces, but tells our story, reflects our mission and will be a source of inspiration for future generations who are part of this Salesian house.”

Certificates were also presented to participants who took part in the workshop and the drawing competition.

Salesians provide social development and educational programs across Ecuador to help youth who are poor gain an education and the skills for later employment. The skills they learn ensure they are able to care for themselves and their families while being contributing members of their communities.

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Sources:

Salesians of Ecuador

ANS Photo (usage permissions and guidelines must be requested from ANS)

ANS – Ecuador – Collaboration project between UPS and the Costa Norte Salesian Project: a legacy of art, education and hope

Salesian Missions – Ecuador

UNICEF – Ecuador