MINISTRIES

Rome, 3 August:  Over 150 communication experts and delegates converged in the heart of Rome on Friday, August 2, 2024, for the World Conference on Social Communication, themed "Shaping Tomorrow." The event, co-organized by the Social Communication Sector of the Salesian Congregation and the Faculty of Social Communication Sciences of the Salesian Pontifical University (UPS), marked a significant milestone in the discourse on the evolving landscape of communication.

The conference opened with a series of insightful addresses. Fr Maciej Makuła, the event's main coordinator, set the stage for the discussions, emphasizing the critical role of social communication in today's interconnected world. Fr Andrea Bozzolo, Rector Magnificus of UPS, underscored the transformative power of communication, particularly in navigating the complexities of the modern era. Fr Gildasio Mendes, General Councillor for Social Communication, highlighted the potential of social communication to foster understanding and unity across cultures and societies.

The keynote address by Cardinal Ángel Fernández Artime, Rector Major of the Salesians of Don Bosco, provided a spiritual and philosophical underpinning to the conference. He underscored the Salesian commitment to using communication as a tool for social good, aligning with the congregation's mission of education and youth development.

The conference delved into a range of pressing issues, including the transformative impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on communication, the role of communication in evangelization, and strategies for effective communication with migrants and refugees. Experts from diverse backgrounds shared their insights, fostering a rich and dynamic exchange of ideas.

Fr. Arvind Khalkho, Social Communication Delegate, and Fr. CM Paul, Director of Radio Salesian and Salesian TV are the two participants from the province.

The day concluded with a Eucharistic celebration, offering a moment of reflection and spiritual renewal for the attendees.

Fr. Arvind Khalkho, SDB

Darjeeling, July 19, 2024: The brothers of Salesian College Sonada organized a one day leadership training programme on the 21st July 2024 in the college campus for the office bearers of the various youth centres animated by them. 

The day commenced with  the Holy Eucharist for the catholic youths presided over by Fr. Anjulus Minj.  This was followed by the inaugural ceremony consisting of meaningful bhajans, prayer songs, and a prayer dance and lighting of the lamp. There were around 86 participants, 45 boys and 41 girls, from 21 villages where the brothers go on regular Sunday youth centre activities. 

Fr. Clement Lakra, the youth Animator of the college and chief organizer of the programme introduced the day and welcomed all the participants and the resource persons. The message of the Rector, Fr. Johny Nedungatt, to the young people conveyed the story of Mr. Abdul Nasser, a newspaper vendor in childhood becoming  District Collector in South India, a challenging narrative of  triumph of the virtues of honesty and hard work over contextual limitations. The government honoured him with IAS status even though he had not done his UPSC examination.  The session that followed on leadership by Dr. Terence Mukhia dealt with the qualities of good leadership which should include communication skills, confidence, creativity, intelligence, practical reasoning and the like. 

Fr. Arvind Xalxo, in the second session on social Media, presented many practical aspects of media in order to conscientize its users. He emphasized the positive and negative impacts that media can have on young minds and the rise of a new culture, the screen age. 

Post lunch session was set aside for group discussion to plan with the leaders of these youth centres the major  events of the year in the villages and the college.  

Ms Anjana Rai, one of the participants summarized the day saying,  “The event was really good and well-organized, focusing on the sound development of the youths, initiating new ideas and conscientizing the usage of social media…” 

The entire day  and its various programmes had the benefit of ‘training of the trainer’ for the brothers  could use the opportunity to develop more  their organizational and social skills. 

Br. Octopaul Marbaniang

20 May 2024, Krishnagar: Bishop Joseph Suren Gomes, S.D.B., Bishop Emeritus of Krishnagar, West Bengal, passed away on Saturday, May 18, 2024, at 5:55 am in Manorama Hospital, Ranaghat, due to cardiac failure. He was 80 years old. Born on February 14, 1944, in Ashnabad, India (now in Bangladesh), Bishop Gomes dedicated his life to the service of God and the community.

Early Life and Priestly Ordination

Joseph Suren Gomes joined the Salesian Congregation in 1958 at the apostolic seminary in Bandel. He pursued higher education at Salesian College in Sonada and theological studies at Kristo Jyoti College in Bangalore. On December 21, 1974, he was ordained a priest at Ranaghat Church for the Salesian Province of Kolkata.

Dedicated Service

Bishop Gomes served in various capacities throughout his life, including Vice Rector at Bandel Seminary and Rector at Savio Bhavan, Azimganj, and Don Bosco Krishnagar. Known for his creative and effective educational methods, he was deeply committed to the boys under his care. His gentle and encouraging nature inspired many to deeper spiritual growth.

A Humble and Pious Man

Bishop Gomes was unassuming and lived a life of simplicity and piety. He reached out to those in need, embodying the spirit of service and compassion. Before his appointment as Bishop, he humbly questioned his worthiness, reflecting his deep sense of responsibility and humility.

Episcopal Ministry

At 58, Pope St. John Paul II appointed him the 7th Bishop of Krishnagar on April 17, 2002. His episcopal ordination took place on May 31, 2002. Bishop Gomes led the Diocese of Krishnagar for 17 years, retiring in May 2019. He was an active participant in the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CCBI) and served as vice president of the Family Commission.

Legacy of Faith and Love

Bishop Joseph Suren Gomes leaves behind a lasting legacy of faith and service. His dedication to the Salesian mission and unwavering commitment to the people of Krishnagar will be fondly remembered. His life of simplicity, pastoral ministry, and hidden sacrifices made a profound impact on those who knew him.

In his homily at the funeral Mass, Bishop Nirmol Gomes remarked, “Do not be sad, instead believe and trust in me…. He was a Shepherd after my heart.” Bishop Gomes was remembered as humble, ever-smiling, and deeply spiritual. His life was described as “eucharistic,” marked by a profound concern for the poor and the least.

Final Farewell

The funeral Mass for Bishop Gomes was held on Monday, May 20, 2024, at 10:30 am in the Cathedral of the Most Holy Redeemer, Krishnagar. Attended by five bishops, numerous priests, nuns, and faithful, the burial took place in the public cemetery of the Guadalope Church Parish, Ranaghat, fulfilling his wish. The service concluded at 4:40 pm, reflecting the large number of people who came to pay their respects.

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• Fr. Soroj Mullick, SDB