The election of Fr. Fabio Attard as the 11th successor of Don Bosco marks a historic moment for the Salesian Congregation and the Salesian Family worldwide. Elected during the 29th General Chapter of the Society of St. Francis de Sales, Fr. Fabio Attard fully embodies Don Bosco's charism and is preparing to lead the Salesian mission dedicated to young people, especially the poorest and most vulnerable, in 136 nations. With extensive theological, pastoral, and academic experience, Fr. Attard is called to guide the Salesian Congregation toward a renewed future, bringing Don Bosco's dream to the heart of the contemporary world.

A Journey of Faith and Formation

Born on March 23, 1959, in Gozo, Malta, Fr. Fabio Attard grew up in Victoria, where he attended public primary and secondary schools. His vocation began to take shape during his years at the Major Seminary of Gozo (1975-1978). Later, he entered the Salesian aspirantate at Savio College in Dingli, Malta, before preparing for the novitiate in Dublin. On September 8, 1980, he made his religious profession as a Salesian of Don Bosco in Maynooth, Ireland.

Fr. Attard pursued his studies with great dedication, earning a degree in Theology from the Pontifical Salesian University (UPS) and a Licentiate in Moral Theology from the prestigious Accademia Alfonsiana in Rome. Ordained a priest on July 4, 1987, he embarked on a ministry deeply rooted in pastoral care and academic research.

A Missionary and Educator in the Service of the World

Fr. Attard's missionary spirit manifested itself from the early years of his Salesian life. From 1988 to 1991, he was part of the group of Salesians who initiated the Congregation's presence in Tunisia, in a predominantly non-Christian context, where he laid the foundations for evangelical and educational service. Returning to Malta, he assumed leadership roles as Rector of St. Patrick's Salesian School and the Salesian Oratory, where he served from 1993 to 1996.

In 1999, Fr. Attard completed his doctoral research on the theme of conscience within the Anglican sermons of John Henry Newman at the Milltown Institute for Philosophy and Theology. Thanks to his expertise, he became part of the faculty of the Pontifical Salesian University, during which he also co-directed doctoral theses at the Alphonsian Academy and contributed to the academic formation of future theologians.

A Visionary for Youth Ministry

Fr. Attard's role as a global leader materialized in 2008, when he was elected the General Councillor for Youth Ministry during the 26th General Chapter. Re-elected for a second term in 2014, he held this position until 2020, guiding the Salesian Congregation in its mission for and with young people.

Under his coordination, the Salesian Youth Ministry Framework (2013) was published, a foundational document offering updated guidelines for Salesian pastoral work worldwide. Fr. Attard promoted global initiatives such as the International Congress on Youth Ministry and the Family (Madrid, 2017) and coordinated activities to address issues such as marginalization, poverty, and migration.

He also strengthened missionary volunteer programs and consolidated technical and vocational education and training (TVET) through initiatives like Don Bosco Tech Africa and Don Bosco Tech ASEAN, representing the Salesians at important international forums on youth policy, migration, and youth employment in Brussels and New York.