MINISTRIES

Kolkata: 13 September: The Regional Council of the Salesian Family for the South Asia Region concluded in Kolkata on 13 September after four days of discussions, formation sessions and group sharing. The meeting brought together delegates from all the Salesian Provinces and FMA Provinces in South Asia. Representatives of Salesian Family groups, including ADMA, SSCC, MSMHC, SMI, VDB, CDB, EXA-DB, EXA-FMA, DISC, SMA and VSDB, also took part. The programme was held at Nitika Don Bosco, the Provincial House, from 10 to 13 September. 

The council began with a presentation of the meeting by Fr. Sanjay M. Kujur, Fr Joan Lluís and Br Domenico. Sr Sangitha led the Lectio Divina on Jesus, the Good Shepherd, followed by a conversation in the Spirit. Fr Joe Manipaddam presented the journey of the Salesian Family since the Dimapur meeting in 2023. Participants then worked in groups on the resource Animation and Accompaniment in the Salesian Family. Good practices from across the region were also shared. 

The second day focused on the Preventive System, Salesian Family holiness and animation. Fr Filiberto guided the Eucharistic celebration and sessions on Animation and Accompaniment. Fr Eugenio led the session on Salesian holiness in the region. Fr Michael Vojtáš addressed the Preventive System and its relevance in a globalised world. The programme also included a live dialogue with Fr Michael. Representatives of ADMA, SSCC, MSMHC, SMI, VDB and CDB presented their group experiences. On 12 September, participants continued with vocation animation, formation inputs and updates on the New Ratio and the Salesian Family. Representatives of EXA-DB, EXA-FMA, DISC, SMA and VSDB also shared their experiences. 

The final day focused on action lines for the next three years, group sharing and the approval of the meeting’s conclusions before the closing Eucharist. The council also included a fraternal outing organised by Fr Sanjay. On 12 September, participants had the opportunity to celebrate the Holy Eucharist at the Tomb of Mother Teresa and to meet the Superior General of the Missionaries of Charity. The gathering concluded with the Eucharistic celebration on 13 September presided over by the SPCSA Salesian Family Provincial Delegate Rev. Fr. Sunil Kerketta, SDB, the Provincial of the host province. 

SHILLONG, Aug 10: Senior representatives from the Salesian Province of Kolkata joined formators from across South Asia at the Don Bosco Provincial House in Shillong for the formal release of the English edition of the Fifth Salesian Formation Ratio alongside an intensive three day regional training summit. Vice Provincial Rev. Fr. Biji Thomas, together with Fr. Ramesh Cherian, Rector of the Pre Novices, and Fr. Pritam Barla, Lecturer at Salesian College Sonada, represented the Kolkata province at the event held from August 9 to 11. General Councillor for Formation Fr. Silvio Roggia SDB formally released the publication and presented the first copy to former General Councillor Fr. Ivo Coelho SDB, in the presence of Shillong Provincial Fr. John Zosiama SDB and regional delegates.

The updated publication, promulgated in Rome earlier this year by Rector Major Fr. Fabio Attard SDB following initial revision work under former Rector Major Fr. Ángel Fernández Artime SDB, serves as the primary global guide for Salesian religious life and formation. Introducing the text, Fr. Banzalao Teixeira SDB, Coordinator of the South Asia Formation Commission, highlighted that the document reflects the collective wisdom and experience of Salesians across different cultures and generations. Fr. Roggia emphasized that the publication captures the mind and heart of the congregation, establishing a clear blueprint to accompany young men throughout their vocational discernment and lifelong formation.

Over the course of the summit, delegates participated in practical workshops focused on the five key dimensions of Salesian development and pastoral accompaniment. The Kolkata delegation actively contributed to province level strategy sessions designed to address local formation challenges and establish practical methods for implementing the new guidelines in regional formation houses. The program concluded with a shared vision among South Asian leadership to ensure a unified, modern, and effective approach to Salesian training across all provinces.

SHILLONG: Formators from the Salesian Province of Kolkata, including Vice Provincial Rev. Fr. Biji Thomas, joined formators from across South Asia for a three day training on their fundamental guiding document. The program, held at the Don Bosco Provincial House from August 9 to 11, focused on the Ratio Fundamentalis Institutionis et Studiorum, which serves as the primary guide for Salesian formation globally. Fr. Ramesh Cherian, Rector of the Pre Novices, and Fr. Pritam Barla, Lecturer at Salesian College Sonada, also represented the Kolkata province at the regional gathering.

The sessions explored the five dimensions of Salesian development, emphasizing lifelong learning, practical experience, and discernment. General Councillor for Formation Fr. Silvio Roggia described the document as capturing the mind and heart of the Salesians, while Fr. Ivo Coelho led the opening sessions and highlighted its role as a roadmap for guiding young people. Participants engaged in personal reflections on key chapters of the text and reviewed video presentations from Salesian leaders regarding its core principles.

The gathering concluded with focused discussions where delegates from Kolkata and other provinces mapped out practical strategies to bring these guidelines back to their local communities. The final day allowed participants to share regional practices, address challenges, and clarify the roles of provincial formation commissions. The overarching goal of the summit is to ensure a unified and effective approach to Salesian training across the entire South Asian region.

Shillong, 7 August - Eight brothers from the Salesian Province of Kolkata were among 47 clerics instituted into the ministries of Lector and Acolyte during a Mass at Sacred Heart Theological College in Mawlai on Thursday. Fr John Zosiama, Provincial of the Salesian Province of Shillong, officially conferred the ministries. The event represents a crucial step in the theological formation of these young men as they prepare for eventual ordination.

Preaching on the Gospel of Luke, Fr Zosiama focused on Christ's command to give the crowds something to eat. He told the clerics this duty involves spiritual nourishment through Scripture and faithful liturgical service. He advised the lectors to allow the Word of God to change their own lives so they can proclaim it with genuine conviction to the public. Addressing the acolytes, he emphasized their new responsibility to assist priests and deacons at the altar with dignity and quiet devotion.

The newly instituted lectors from the Kolkata province, who recently completed their first year of theological studies, are Michael Murmu, Pynshaibok Nongpluh, and Kishore Panna. The new acolytes, having finished their second year of theology, are Shanto Zacharias Hasda, Birendra Kerketta, Palash Kispotta, Ignatius Mankhin, and Dominic Sudip Mondol. These ministries will allow the brothers to take on greater public roles in worship and service within the Church as they continue their journey.

KRISHNANAGAR, July 25: The Salesian Family of the Kolkata Province rejoiced as Bro. Uttam Murmu, SDB made his Perpetual Profession on Saturday, 25 July 2026, at Don Bosco Youth Centre, Krishnanagar. The solemn celebration began with the Holy Eucharist at 10:00 a.m., marking a significant milestone in Bro. Uttam's lifelong commitment to God and the mission of St. John Bosco.
The Eucharistic celebration was presided over by the Provincial, Rev. Fr. Sunil Kerketta, SDB, who received the perpetual vows on behalf of the Recor Major (Rev. Fr. Fabio Attard, SBD) of the Salesians of Don Bosco. Among the concelebrants were Rev. Fr. Joseph Pauria, SDB, former Provincial, Fr. C. M. Jose, Parish Priest of Muktinagar, Fr. Ramesh, SDB, Rector of Savio Bhavan, and several other Salesian priests.
The celebration witnessed the presence of 20 priests and around 15 religious sisters, along with Pre- Novices, Salesian brothers, non-teaching staff of English medium and the community of Don Bosco Krishnagar. Bro. Uttam's parents, relatives, friends, and well-wishers travelled from different places to witness this joyful and grace-filled occasion and to accompany him with their prayers.
During the Holy Mass, Bro. Uttam publicly professed the evangelical counsels of poverty, chastity, and obedience, making his permanent commitment according to the Constitutions of the Salesian Society of St. John Bosco. Rev. Fr. Sunil Kerketta in his inspiring homily reflected on the three temptations of Jesus in the desert and encouraged Bro. Uttam to remain faithful to Christ, persevere in his vocation, and joyfully dedicate his life to the service of the Church and the young until the end.
The Holy Eucharist was prayerfully animated by the Hostel Boys' Choir, whose melodious hymns and active participation added beauty and solemnity to the liturgy. Their inspiring singing created a prayerful atmosphere and helped the congregation participate more deeply in the celebration.
Following the Eucharistic celebration, a felicitation programme was held in the community hall. The programme commenced with an introduction by Fr. Nicholas, followed by a warm welcome address by the Rector. The gathering included the cutting of a congratulatory cake and a beautiful congratulatory song presented by the SMI Novices.
The cultural programme featured melodious choir presentations by the Pre-Novices of Savio Bhavan, an inspiring address by Ajoy Augustine Tudu (hostel boy) on behalf of the community, energetic dances by the hostel students, and songs performed by the fathers and brothers, creating an atmosphere of thanksgiving and celebration. A special attraction of the programme was two graceful dance performances by Bro. Uttam Murmu's nieces—one solo dance and one duet dance—which were warmly appreciated by the audience.
One of the highlights of the programme was the release of the book The Eucharistic, written by Fr. M. C. Syriac. The book was formally released by Rev. Fr. Sunil Kerketta, SDB, together with Fr. Ramesh, Rector of Savio Bhavan. The first copies were presented to Rev. Fr. Joseph Pauria, SDB, former Provincial, and to Bro. Uttam Murmu, SDB. Fr. Joseph Pauria reflected on the central place of the Eucharist in Christian life and encouraged everyone to deepen their devotion to the Blessed Sacrament.
Bro. Uttam Murmu expressed heartfelt gratitude to God for the gift of his vocation. He sincerely thanked the Provincial, priests, brothers, sisters, formators, teachers, benefactors, and all who had accompanied him throughout his formation. He also offered special thanks to his parents, relatives, friends, and all those who had prayed for and supported him during his vocational journey.
The programme concluded with words of appreciation and congratulations from the gathered community. Bro. Uttam was felicitated by the Salesian community, priests, religious sisters, family members, relatives, and friends. The joyous celebration ended with a delicious fellowship lunch shared by all, strengthening the spirit of communion and thanksgiving.
The Perpetual Profession of Bro. Uttam Murmu, SDB was truly a memorable celebration of faith, commitment, and hope. It served as an inspiration to all present, reminding them of the beauty of responding generously to God's call. May Mary Help of Christians and St. John Bosco continue to guide and strengthen Bro. Uttam as he faithfully serves the Church and the young throughout his Salesian ministry.
-Cl. Robin Ekka, SDB

Sonada, 11 July, 2025 - The vestition ceremony of thirteen recently professed brothers from the Salesian provinces of Kolkata and New Delhi was held with due solemnity and joy on 10th  July, 2025 at the Seminary Chapel of Salesian College, Sonada. 

These eleven brothers had their novitiate in the province of Bangalore where it is customary not to have clothing ceremony during the phase of novitiate formation.  Two brothers hailing from the diocese of Darjeeling too did not have their vestition. 

The celebration was presided over by Rev. Stephen Lepcha, Bishop of Darjeeling, and concelebrated by five Salesian priests. In his homily, Bishop Lepcha reflected on the deep significance of the religious habit, emphasizing that it is not merely a garment but a sign of the brothers’ dedication, identity, and mission. He reminded them of the responsibilities that come with wearing the habit, urging them to live lives of humility, service, and fidelity to their vocation.

The brothers who received the habit were Praful Dung Dung, Josh Hembrom, Paulus Hembrom, Ranjit Kujur, Kuldip Lakra, Telesphore Soreng, and Charlesh Murmu from the Salesian Province of Kolkata;  Amar Kujur, Anmol Tirkey, and Samir Ekka from the Province of Delhi. Two brothers ,Vivek George Rai and Cyril Pem Tshering Lepcha are from the Diocese of Darjeeling.

The ceremony concluded with congratulatory songs and a short felicitation programme to honour the newly vested brothers. The day ended with a joyful photo session, capturing the grace-filled moments of the celebration. 

Br. Abhishek Rai SDB