The Salesians are dedicating this year to the memory of Alfons Maria Galea, the philanthropist who was responsible for bringing the Salesians to Malta 100 years ago.

The Salesians were founded by Don Bosco in Italy and Mr Galea was instrumental in encouraging them to set up institutions in Malta. It was only natural for the Salesians to name the Oratory in Sliema after their founder.

The Sliema Youth Oratory was built a few years after St Patrick's School was constructed and the Blessed Don Michele Rua, Don Bosco's first successor, inaugurated the oratory in 1908. Centenary celebrations will include religious and lay activities and the provincial of the Salesians, Fr John Horan, is expected to come to Malta in June as part of the celebrations, Fr Victor Mangion said yesterday.

The main objective of the oratory is to promote the human and Christian education of the young. The oratory has a juniors' club, catering for boys and girls aged seven to 10. Children are given the opportunity of daily safe recreation as well as sound Christian and civil formation.

The Salesian Youth Centre is open to young people aged 11 to 19. These are divided in different groups according to age and socio-cultural, religious activities are organised for the youths. "Emphasis is put on the holistic approach towards growth. We use drama, music, media productions, leadership training and sport to achieve our goals," Fr Mangion said.

"The Don Bosco church at the oratory offers the ideal space where young people can express the Salesian synthesis between evangelisation and education," he said.

The Salesian Theatre, which forms part of the oratory, was built in 1908 on land donated by Mr Galea. The theatre was designed by the well known Maltese artist Giuseppe Calì.

Also known as the Juventutis Domus, the theatre was to offer a formative space for young university students. Some time before the present Youth Centre came into being, Mr Galea had wanted to build a hall to serve as a club for young men.

"It now caters for all ages and has developed as a theatrical company with a resident drama group that promotes drama and cultural activities in a Christian and friendly environment so as to foster culture among youths," Fr Mangion said.

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