Don Bosco was brought up in poverty by his hardworking mother after the death of his father.He became a priest and accomplished speaker, working tirelessly to help poor, homeless youth. He was a pioneer in educating children, rejecting corporal punishment in favor of frequent confession and Communion. Through catechetical training, he helped to unite the spiritual lives of youths in their study, work and play. Recognized as the patron saint of young apprentices, Don Bosco encouraged his young followers to learn a trade, thus, trailblazing the way for modern ideas in the area of vocational training.