MINISTRIES

Kalimpong, February 7– The Salesian community at Don Bosco, Samtar, celebrated a significant milestone with the blessing of their new residence. The ceremony, held on February 7, was a moment of joy and gratitude, attended by Salesians, local faithful, and well-wishers. The event began with a Holy Mass, presided over by Fr. Martin Lakra, the Rector of the community, and co-celebrated by several Salesian priests, including Fr. Florance, Fr. Shudir, and Fr. Nijo from Don Bosco Malbasi, Sikkim, as well as Fr. Christopher and Fr. Fedrick from Suruk Parish. The faithful of St. Alphonsa Church, Samtar, joined in the celebration, adding to the spirit of unity and devotion.

During the Mass, heartfelt thanks were extended to all who contributed to the realization of the new residence. Fr. Savio, in his address, expressed gratitude to former Provincial Rev. Bishop Nirmal Gomes and his council, current Provincial Fr. Joseph Pauria, and Provincial Economer Fr. Jijo for their unwavering support and financial assistance. The blessing of the residence marked not only the completion of a physical structure but also the strengthening of the Salesian mission in Samtar, providing a nurturing space for the community’s spiritual and pastoral activities.

The ceremony concluded with a festive meal, where attendees shared in the joy of the occasion.

Murshidabad, January 31 – The Feast of Don Bosco was celebrated with great fervor at Don Bosco, Palsanda, bringing together 180 hostel children and 80 parish youth for a day of spiritual reflection and cultural celebration. Fr. M. C. Joseph led a Recollection session, followed by Confession and a meaningful Eucharistic celebration. The youth also participated in a one-day input session addressing key issues such as relationships, character formation, career guidance, and an exploration of Santhal culture. The day concluded with an hour of Adoration service and a vibrant Santal cultural dance around a bonfire, symbolizing unity and joy.

In addition to the Feast celebrations, a new Parish Youth Council was officially installed by Fr. M. C. Joseph. The council, led by President Mamoli Murmu, Vice President Rounak Murmu, Secretary Nipen Tudu, and members Riya Hembrom, Sanjib Murmu, Samuel Mardi, and Payel Soren, marks a new chapter in the parish’s youth ministry. The Feast of the Presentation of the Lord was also celebrated with a grand Eucharistic procession, presided over by Fr. Noby K. George, the dean of Murshidabad Diocese. These events underscored the parish’s commitment to spiritual growth, cultural preservation, and youth empowerment, leaving the community inspired and united in faith.

Dhaka, January 18: The Salesian Family in Bangladesh has reason to rejoice as Deacon Johnny Joseph Ruram was ordained as a priest, becoming the second Salesian priest from Bangladesh.

The ordination ceremony, held at Mary Our Help Parish, Utrail-Birisiri, was attended by over 400 faithful and religious, including Bishop Ponen Paul Kubi, CSC, who conferred the ordination.

Fr. Ruram's journey to priesthood is a testament to his dedication and perseverance. His ordination motto, "Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life," reflects his commitment to serving the Lord and His people.

The Salesian community in Bangladesh congratulates Fr. Ruram on his achievement and welcomes him to the priesthood. May his ministry inspire many young people to follow in his footsteps and may he be a beacon of hope and joy to all those he serves.

Rome, August 16: Master Rickey Pullock, a young delegate from Don Bosco Oodlabari Parish, Salesian Province of Kolkata, embarked on a remarkable journey to Italy, where he participated in the Salesian Youth Synod from August 9-16, 2024. This significant event, which commemorated the 200th anniversary of Don Bosco's dream at the age of 9, brought together over 350 delegates from around the world. Master Pullock's participation in the Synod marked a proud moment for the Salesian Province of Kolkata, as he joined the global Salesian family in celebrating this milestone.

Master Pullock joined fellow delegates from across the globe to rediscover Don Bosco's spirituality, faith, and devotion to Mary Help of Christians. The event was a testament to the power of unity and faith, bringing together young people from diverse backgrounds.

Fr. Patrick Lepcha, National Youth Coordinator for South Asia, also played a key role in the Synod, guiding and animating the youth delegates throughout the event.

The Synod featured a series of inspiring events, including a grand welcome, pilgrimage to historic sites, and discussions on the Instrumentum Laboris. The delegates celebrated Mass with Rector Major Cardinal Don Angel Fernandez Artime and engaged in cultural exchange through the SYM Fair-Market.

The experience was a testament to the enduring legacy of Don Bosco's dream, uniting young people across cultures and languages in a shared vision of faith and service. Master Pullock's participation in the Synod marked a proud moment for the Salesian Province of Kolkata, as he joined the global Salesian family in celebrating the 200th anniversary of Don Bosco's dream.
Fr. Arvind Khalkho, SDB

Kalimpong, 17 August: The 209th birthday of St. John Bosco, the "Father and Friend of Youth," was commemorated with great enthusiasm in Samthar on August 17. Don Bosco School Samthar and the Bosco Association organized the Bosco Jayanti celebration for the fourth consecutive year.

The event featured an inter-cultural dance competition and inter-school football tournaments, attracting students from various schools in the region. The Bosco Cup, which included both men's and women's open knockout football tournaments, was a highlight of the day.

The festivities began with a tribute to Don Bosco, including the offering of kadha and cake cutting. Several officials and dignitaries were present, with Fr. Martin serving as the chief guest. The first half of the event showcased the talents of the youth, who performed songs and dances.

The second half was action-packed with the Bosco Cup finals. In the inter-school match, St. Joseph School Tanyang defeated St. Maurice School 2-0. A friendly match between Priest VII and Bosco Appas ended in a 3-1 victory for Priest VII. The women's final saw Himalayan FC triumph over Rongmit United 1-0. The men's final was a thrilling match that ended in a 3-3 draw, with Sezum A ultimately winning the penalty shootout 0-2.

The winners of the dance competition were St. Joseph Tanyang, St. Joseph Nimbong, and St. Maurice Suruk. All participants received medals and certificates. In the football tournaments, St. Joseph Tanyang won the inter-school title, while Himalayan FC and Sezum A emerged victorious in the women's and men's open knockout tournaments, respectively.

Individual awards were also presented, recognizing outstanding performances in football. Prakash Lepcha from Sezum was named the best goalkeeper, Rohan Lepcha from Sezum was awarded the best defender, Silash from Yangri United was selected as the player of the tournament, and Prem from Yangri United was the highest scorer. In the women's category, Neva Sharma from Himalayan FC was the player of the tournament, and Pandimit from Himalayan FC was the highest scorer.

The Bosco Jayanti celebration in Samthar was a true testament to Don Bosco's motto, "Give me souls, take away the rest." The event provided a platform for young people to showcase their talents, compete in sports, and connect with their community.
Fr. Savio Rai, SDB

Azimganj, 16 August: Savio Bhavan, a formation house of the Kolkata Province, hosted a special celebration on August 16, 2024, to commemorate the birthday of St. John Bosco. For the first time, the parish youths of Azimganj Don Bosco Parish were invited to participate in the festivities.

The day began with a Eucharistic Adoration led by Fr. Ramesh Cherian, the Rector of Savio Bhavan. The session provided a spiritual foundation for the celebration, allowing the youths to connect more deeply with the values and mission of Don Bosco.

A vibrant cultural evening followed, showcasing the talents of both the parish youths and the residents of Savio Bhavan. The performances included prayer dance, instrumental music, a band performance, and a skit, all reflecting the spirit of Don Bosco.

Fr. Motilal Kisku, the Parish Priest of Azimganj Parish, and Fr. Ajay Sardar, the Rector of the Don Bosco Welfare Center, graced the occasion with their presence, strengthening the bond between the parish and the formation house.

Fr. Ramesh Cherian addressed the youths, speaking about the mission of Don Bosco and encouraging them to carry forward his legacy of love, service, and devotion.

The celebration was a resounding success, fostering unity and strengthening the relationship between the parish youths and the Savio Bhavan community. It was a day that truly embodied the spirit of Don Bosco, the father and friend of the youth.
Fr. Biswajit Mondal, SDB