Salesianum School

What does it really mean to be a saint? Sometimes, it's as simple as being there for someone who needs you.

In this month's Salesian Reflection, Joseph Desiderio '27 shared a deeply personal story about a difficult time during his sophomore year when he struggled to find his place, lost confidence in himself, and began withdrawing from those around him. What helped him through wasn't some extraordinary miracle, but the everyday kindness of his Salesian brothers and Padua sisters who reached out, included him, and reminded him that he wasn't alone. He reflected, “Many of you in this room have been saints for me without even knowing it.”

Joey's reflection challenged us to recognize that holiness isn't reserved for those whose names appear on the Church's calendar. Each of us has the opportunity to reflect God's love through the simple ways we care for one another.

As he reminded us, “To be loved is the greatest gift one can receive, and to love is the greatest gift we can ever offer.”

Many Brothers. One Mission. Live Jesus.

Calling all future Salesianum artists, musicians, and performers!

The deadline to apply for our Fine Arts Scholarships is quickly approaching! Students interested in pursuing their artistic talents at Salesianum are encouraged to submit their applications by November 30.

Whether your passion is creating, performing, or making music, we can't wait to see the talents you'll bring to 18th & Broom.

Don't miss your opportunity!

Apply by November 30: linktr.ee/salesianum or link in bio.

Today, we pause to honor the men and women who have served our country in the United States Armed Forces.

On Veterans Day, we thank all who have answered the call to serve, especially the Salesianum alumni, parents, faculty, and friends whose service reflects a commitment to something greater than themselves.

Their courage, sacrifice, and dedication remind us that service is more than an act of duty. It is a selfless commitment to others.

To all our veterans, thank you for your service. May God bless you and your families, and may we never take for granted the freedoms you have helped protect.

Live Jesus.

Congratulations to Jimmy DeFruscio '27, our November Academic Weapon! Each month, our Academic Weapon Award recognizes a student who demonstrates exceptional dedication to learning, intellectual curiosity, and a commitment to academic excellence that goes beyond simply earning good grades.

Jimmy embodies those qualities through his thoughtful approach to learning, whether exploring Salesian spirituality, engaging in discussions at Philosophy Club, or tackling challenging math concepts.

His teachers consistently praise his dedication, active listening, and desire to truly understand what he's learning. Just as importantly, Jimmy's positivity and encouragement help bring out the best in his classmates.

Congratulations, Jimmy, on this well-deserved recognition!

Every vocation begins with a call. The question is how we choose to answer it. As we celebrate National Vocation Awareness Week, we give special thanks for the Oblates of St. Francis de Sales, whose response to God's call led them to Wilmington in 1903 to establish Salesianum.

For more than 120 years, generations of Oblates have dedicated their lives to educating and forming young men in the spirit of St. Francis de Sales. Their commitment continues to shape our school, our traditions, and our mission to Live Jesus.

National Vocation Awareness Week reminds us that God calls each of us to a unique purpose. For some, that calling may lead to the priesthood or religious life, including a vocation with the Oblates. For all of us, it is an invitation to discover how our gifts can be used in service to others.

This week, we pray especially for those discerning a vocation to the priesthood and religious life, and for the Oblates who have answered that call and continue to inspire generations of Salesians.

Could God be calling you to become an Oblate of St. Francis de Sales? We encourage our students, alumni, and others who feel drawn to religious life to explore that possibility, ask questions, and begin a conversation with an Oblate. Your own vocation may be the beginning of a mission that touches countless lives. Visit oblates.org or contact an Oblate for more information.