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April 3, 1874, was a day of benediction, a day of sacred and perpetual memorial to the sons of Don Bosco, for on that day Pope Pius IX solemnly approved the Rules and Constitutions which the founder, under the guidance of the Spirit of God, had framed for his Society of St. Francis of Sales. The members who thus dedicate themselves to God are "to study to acquire Christian perfection; to devote their lives to works of charity, spiritual and temporal, especially among children and youth, and to the education of scholars. Destitute children are to receive the preference."

The Society is composed of priests, divinity students and lay students. The vows of chastity, obedience and poverty are the same as in other religious orders, except that the vow of poverty regards only the administration of property and does not prohibit its possession. The administration of patrimonies, benefices, or property of any kind is restricted to the Superior-General, who is elected for twelve years, and may be re-elected, but cannot hold the keys of administration unless the Pope confirms his election. The prefect, spiritual director, steward and three councillors are