Pope Francis, recovering from bilateral pneumonia, has congratulated Maltese priest Fr Fabio Attard on his election as the new Rector Major of the Salesians of Don Bosco, expressing his support in a message to the congregation's 29th General Chapter currently underway in Turin, Italy.

Fr Attard, a long-time member of the Salesian congregation, was chosen to succeed Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime, who was appointed earlier this year by the Pope as Pro-Prefect of the Dicastery for Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life.

In his message, the Pope expressed warm congratulations to Fr Attard and encouraged him to lead the Salesians with a spirit of trust and synodal discernment. He endorsed the theme of the Chapter - "Salesians passionate about Jesus Christ and dedicated to the young" - describing it as a "beautiful goal" that reflects the heart of the Salesian mission.

"To be 'passionate' and 'dedicated,' to let yourselves be fully drawn in by the Lord's love and to serve others without keeping anything for yourselves-just as your Founder did in his time," the Pope said.

The 29th General Chapter of the Society of Saint Francis de Sales began on 16 February and runs until 12 April. It marks a significant moment for the congregation, coinciding with the 150th anniversary of Don Bosco's first missionary expedition to Argentina.

Despite being unwell, Pope Francis took the time to recognise the congregation's enduring mission to educate and accompany young people. He applauded their efforts to help youth become self-sufficient, contributing members of society through education and vocational training.

The Pope also acknowledged the evolving challenges facing religious orders in modern society, highlighting the importance of interculturality as a growing strength within consecrated life.

In conclusion, Pope Francis thanked the Salesians for their service and encouraged them to continue their educational work with courage and perseverance. "I wholeheartedly bless you and your chapter work, as well as your confreres across the five continents, and I kindly ask you to pray for me," he wrote.

The Salesians of Don Bosco are present in more than 130 countries and remain one of the largest Catholic religious congregations dedicated to the welfare and development of young people.