C.M. Paul
Turin, March 25, 2025 – The Salesians of Don Bosco have elected Father Fabio Attard as their 11th Rector Major, succeeding their founder, Don Bosco. Father Attard, a Maltese Salesian, was elected during the 29th General Chapter of the Society of St. Francis de Sales.
With extensive theological, pastoral, and academic experience, Father Attard embodies Don Bosco’s charism and is poised to lead the Salesian mission globally. As the Rector Major, he will guide the congregation’s 13,750 consecrated Salesians in 92 provinces across 136 nations.
Father Attard’s vision emphasizes youth ministry, lay collaboration, and missionary work. His election represents a new dawn for the Congregation, inspiring hope and light for new generations.
Born in Gozo, Malta, Father Attard has a degree in Theology and a Licentiate in Moral Theology.
Father Attard has held various leadership roles, including General Councillor for Youth Ministry for two terms, and has promoted global initiatives addressing issues like marginalization, poverty, and migration.
His contribution to the universal Church was recognized by Pope Francis, who appointed him as a Consultant to the Dicastery for Laity, Family, and Life.
He also strengthened missionary volunteer programs and consolidated technical and vocational education and training through initiatives like Don Bosco Tech Africa and Don Bosco Tech ASEAN, representing the Salesians at important international forums on youth policy, migration, and youth employment in Brussels and New York.
From 2020 to 2023, Father Attard coordinated Salesian and Lay Formation in Europe through a project which led to the creation of a master’s program for the formation of Salesians and lay collaborators, now managed by the Pontifical Salesian University in collaboration with the Youth Ministry Sector.
The Salesian congregation and its 32 member Salesian Family groups worldwide welcome Father Attard as their new leader, entrusting him with the mission of animating and governing them in the 21st century.