Association of Mary Help of Christians (ADMA)

The Association of Mary Help of Christians (ADMA), founded by Don Bosco “to promote veneration of the Blessed Sacrament and devotion to Mary Help of Christians”, was canonically erected in the Sanctuary of Mary Help of Christians in Turin on 18 April 1869, becoming the second group established as part of his work after the Salesians. On 5 July 1989, the Rector Major Fr Egidio Vigano officially recognized the ADMA as a member of the Salesian Family.

What began as a seed sown by Don Bosco has grown into a worldwide movement. Today, the ADMA is present in 50 countries, with around 800 groups affiliated to the Primary ADMA in Turin. Following Don Bosco’s example, ADMA members journey together in a family spirit of prayer, apostolate and service. Members deepen their devotion to the Eucharist and Mary Help of Christians, participate actively in the liturgical life of the Church, and embrace the sacrament of reconciliation.

Christian formation encourages members to look to Mary as a model for living a “spirituality of daily life”, bringing faith into everyday relationships, responsibilities and encounters. Through this, ADMA seeks to nurture a spirit of welcome, solidarity and Christian fellowship within families and the wider community.

ADMA in Goa

In the Panjim-Konkan Province, there are four ADMA units: two established by the Salesians at Odxel and Parra, and two established by the FMA Sisters at Benaulim and Velim.

The Odxel unit was formed in 2008 with 14 members and was the first ADMA unit in the province to receive accreditation. The Parra unit was formed in 2009 and received accreditation in 2010, with 18 members. The units continue to grow through regular meetings and activities, joining a worldwide ADMA membership of around 30,000, united by the common aim of spreading devotion to Mary Help of Christians and Jesus in the Holy Eucharist.

The charism of ADMA lies in its simple and accessible way of life. Members are not required to take vows or follow rigorous practices. Daily prayer, visits to the Blessed Sacrament, frequent reception of Holy Communion and reconciliation, and simple acts of piety form an integral part of ADMA life.

In Parra, members meet once a month. The feasts of the Blessed Virgin Mary are celebrated with solemnity throughout the year. In August, ADMA conducts a Marian Quiz or a Skits Programme for schools in the surrounding area, with around 12 schools normally participating. May and October are dedicated to devotion to Mary, with the daily Rosary prayed at the grotto.

On 8 December, the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, ADMA members renew their promises every year.

For its members, ADMA is a source of peace, serenity, fellowship and spiritual growth. Through prayer, devotion and service, the Association continues Don Bosco’s mission of spreading devotion to Mary Help of Christians and fostering love for Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament.