Founded for the Christian education of the young by Saint John (Don) Bosco near Turin, Italy in 1844. To combat the atheistic philosophy disseminated by the French Revolution, Don Bosco gathered together young boys, especially the poor, for religious instruction at what were called "Festive Oratories." The institution of night-schools became necessary and a trained staff was formed. The work of education was divided into two classes, students and artisans, the second enabling boys to learn a trade. The work was perpetuated by the formation of a religious congregation under rules drawn up in 1857 and approved in 1859. The Rule and Constitutions were definitely approved by Pope Pius IX in 1874. Development was rapid; colleges were opened, and missionaries were sent to South America in 1875, Africa in 1889, and Asia in 1894 to 1911. They came to the United States in 1898.
This dictionary contains not only definitions and explanations of every subject in Religion, Scripture, tradition, doctrine, morals, sacraments, rites, customs, devotions and symbolism, but also accounts of the Church in every continent, country, diocese; missions, notable Catholic centers, cities, and places with religious names; religious orders, church societies, sects and false religions. It has brief articles also on historical events and personages, on the Old Testament and New, and on popes, prelates, priests, men and women of distinction, showing what the Church has done for civilization and correcting many errors which have hitherto passed for history.Wikipedia
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