St. John Bosco, affectionately called Don Bosco, was born on August 16, 1815, in Becchi, Italy, and was raised by his mother, Margherita, who inspired his faith after his father passed away when he was two. From a young age, he felt a calling to a mission beyond his daily life.
According to the Vatican site, he had a dream at the age of nine that shaped his vocation. He saw unruly boys transform into wild animals and, guided by Mary and Jesus, become gentle lambs. The vision revealed his mission: to guide youth with love and kindness, not punishment.
As he grew, John experienced further mystical visions. He pictured Christians and the Church under attack, with divine protection anchored in the Eucharist and the Virgin Mary. He also envisioned youth drawn into sin and a rose garden whose thorns symbolised the challenges of missionary work. These spiritual experiences strengthened his faith and guided his approach to education and pastoral care.
Inspired by these experiences, John pursued the priesthood despite hardships. He received ordination in 1841 and ministered to children in harsh conditions.
He founded the Salesians of Don Bosco in 1859, and together with St. Mary Mazzarello, he established the Salesian Sisters, dedicating both congregations to serving youth around the world.
He died on January 31, 1888, and Pope Pius XI declared him a saint in 1934. People honour him as the “Father and Teacher of Youth,” and his faith, compassion, and spiritual vision continue to guide Salesian communities worldwide.