Rome (Italy). “For a generative animation. A reading based on the leadership experience of Mary D. Mazzarello and the first FMA” is the title of the e-book, written by Sister Eliane Anschau Petri, Daughter of Mary Help of Christians, published by Edebê Brazil in Italian and Portuguese.
The text is a reflection on leadership and animation in the context of consecrated life, inspired by the life and works of Saint Mary Domenica Mazzarello and the first Daughters of Mary Help of Christians. It is an invitation to all those who wish to explore a model of generative animation based on Salesian spirituality.
The need to form a leadership style in animation and government in the perspective of coordination for communion is, in fact, felt at various levels, confirmed by the Acts of the General Chapters.
General Chapter XXIII of the FMA Institute (2014) highlighted the need for “formation to a leadership appropriate for the times for a style of animation and government that is authoritative for the coherence between words and gestures; that facilitates involvement, obedience of everyone to God’s plan, and co-responsibility in the mission.” In the following General Chapter XXIV (2021), the FMA reaffirmed the need to “live the service of authority as generative leadership, in the circular, participatory style, in shared animation, government, and management of educative works.”
The introduction highlights the Salesian leadership model, stressing the need for leadership that goes beyond formal authority and focuses on communion and service. The reflection illustrates how leadership in the FMA Institute is intrinsically linked to pastoral charity and the promotion of vocational growth, following the principles of Don Bosco’s Preventive System.
One of the highlights of the book is the analysis of the leadership of Mother Mazzarello and the first communities of Mornese. The author highlights the spiritual and charismatic animation of Mary Domenica Mazzarello, her ability to promote people, her life witness, her ability to manage conflicts and fragility, her wisdom in combining loving kindness and firmness, creating an environment conducive to synodality and shared mission.
Another original aspect of the e-book is the vision of generative and educative leadership promoted by Mother Mazzarello, also seen through the eyes of the FMA Past Pupils. This approach highlights how leadership must be a driving force for other leaders, creating a multiplier effect that benefits the entire community.
The e-book can be downloaded free of charge – in Italian and Portuguese – at this link:
