John Bosco was born on August 16, 1815, in a small town not too far from Turin, Italy. His father died when he was two years old. He was raised with love and discipline by his mother, Margaret.
He was ordained to the priesthood in 1841 and went to work in Turin, where the industrial revolution was attracting waves of young people to the city. The misery and abandonment of these youngsters moved John Bosco deeply.
He dedicated his life to them and began youth clubs for them. He then started boarding schools, where he taught them trades. In 1859 he founded the Salesian Society,
and in 1872 the Salesian Sisters worked for girls. Three years later, he sent the first missionary group to Argentina. His work spread throughout the mission world.
The educational philosophy of John Bosco can be expressed in three words:
the reason, religion, and kindness. His system is centered on a deep understanding and love for young people. John Bosco died on January 31, 1888. He was declared a saint on April 1, 1934, by Pope Pius XI.