Fr. Fabio Attard Elected to Lead the Salesian Congregation

Turin, 25 March, 2025 – The election of Fr. Fabio Attard as the 11th successor of Don Bosco marks a historic moment for the Salesian Congregation and the worldwide Salesian Family. Elected during the 29th General Chapter of the Society of St. Francis of Sales, Fr. Attard fully embodies Don Bosco’s charisma. He now leads the Salesian mission in 136 countries, dedicated to young people, particularly the poorest and most vulnerable. With extensive theological, pastoral and academic experience, Fr. Attard is prepared to guide the Salesian Congregation towards a renewed future, placing Don Bosco’s vision at the heart of the modern world.  

A Life of Faith and Formation

Born on 23 March 1959 in Gozo, Malta, Fr. Fabio Attard grew up in Victoria, attending public primary and secondary schools. His vocation took shape during his years at the Major Seminary of Gozo (1975–1978). He then pursued the Salesian aspiration at Savio College, Dingli, Malta, before beginning his novitiate in Dublin. On 8 September 1980, he made his religious profession as a Salesian of Don Bosco in Maynooth, Ireland.  

Committed to his studies, he earned a degree in Theology from the Pontifical Salesian University (UPS) and a Bachelor's degree in Moral Theology from the Alfonsiana Academy in Rome. He was ordained a priest on 4 July 1987, embarking on a ministry deeply rooted in pastoral care and academic research.  

A Missionary and Educator in Service of the World 

Fr. Attard’s missionary spirit emerged early in his Salesian life. From 1988 to 1991, he helped establish the Salesian presence in Tunisia, working in a predominantly non-Christian context. Back in Malta, he assumed leadership roles as Rector of St. Patrick’s Salesian School and the Salesian Oratory (1993–1996).  

In 1999, he completed his PhD at the Milltown Institute for Philosophy and Theology, focusing on John Henry Newman’s Anglican sermons. He later joined the teaching staff at the Pontifical Salesian University, co-directing doctoral theses at the Alfonsian Academy and shaping future theologians.  

A Visionary for Youth Ministry

In 2008, Fr. Attard was elected General Councillor for Youth Ministry and re-elected in 2014, serving until 2020. Under his leadership, the Salesian Youth Pastoral Framework (2013) was published, offering updated global guidelines. He also promoted initiatives like the International Congress on Youth and Family Pastoral Care (Madrid, 2017) and strengthened vocational education through Don Bosco Tech Africa and Don Bosco Tech ASEAN.  

A Leader for the Future

In 2018, Pope Francis appointed Fr. Attard as Consultant of the Dicastery for the Laity, Family and Life. Now, as Rector Major, he leads 13,750 Salesians in 136 nations, ensuring Don Bosco’s mission continues to flourish.

Courtesy: ANS