Dhaka: Fr Fabio Attard, Rector Major of the Salesians of Don Bosco, on Friday called on Salesians in Bangladesh to deepen their personal relationship with Jesus Christ, strengthen community life and renew their commitment to serving the poor and young people.
Addressing the Salesians at Don Bosco Moushair in Dhaka, Fr Attard emphasised the centrality of Jesus Christ in religious life, asking whether their relationship with Him remained a priority. He urged them to examine their personal prayer, meditation and daily commitment, posing a fundamental question: “Are we working for the Lord or working with the Lord?”
The meeting was attended by Fr Sunil Kerketta, Provincial of the Salesian Province of Kolkata, Fr. Biju Michael, Regional Councilor of South Aasia, Fr Thati Reddy Vijay Bhaskar, Secretary to the Rector Major and Fr. Arvind Khalkho, Social Communication Delegate of Calcutta Province.
Reflecting on religious life and Salesian spirituality, Fr Attard highlighted prayer, the vows as a path of self-giving, and the primacy of God as essential elements of vocation. He stressed that a small number of religious was not necessarily a limitation, provided they remained faithful to their prophetic mission.
He underlined that community life was not optional but an essential part of Salesian witness, particularly in the formation of young people. The way Salesians live together, he said, is often the first testimony young people encounter. He called for communities that remain close to the poor rather than becoming comfortable or detached from the realities of those they serve.
Fr Attard also stressed that formation must extend beyond initial formation and continue throughout the mission. He encouraged Salesians to support and accompany lay people, recognising their role in carrying forward the educational and pastoral mission.
Earlier in the day, Fr Attard met Salesian aspirants and pre-novices, encouraging them to discern God's will and remain faithful to their daily responsibilities. He urged them to reflect on the questions, “What is God asking of me?” and how they could make a personal commitment to becoming one with Jesus.
During the celebration of the Holy Eucharist, Fr Attard reflected on three essential dimensions of the Salesian mission: creating a home where young people feel welcome, helping them grow into good persons, and encouraging them to help others follow the same path.
Drawing on the example of Don Bosco and his mother, Mamma Margaret, he explained that welcoming young people was the starting point of education, but that the mission must also help them develop sound character and become people who contribute positively to society.
He further emphasised that personal example could inspire others to live better lives. Acts of kindness, encouragement and support, he said, were practical expressions of the Gospel.
Fr Attard arrived in Bangladesh early on October 9 for his maiden visit to the country, accompanied by Fr Thati Reddy Vijay Bhaskar. He was received at Dhaka airport by Fr Sunil Kerketta and Fr Francis Allencherry, who oversees the Bangladesh Mission. He then proceeded to Don Bosco Moushair, where he is staying during the visit.
The Salesian presence in Bangladesh comprises 19 Salesians, including 10 local members, five Indians, two Vietnamese, one from the African continent and one Polish Salesian. Six Salesians are serving outside the country’s mission territory: three pursuing theological studies in India at SHTC, one in the Philippines and two in Sri Lanka.
Fr Victor Mankhin was the first Salesian priest from Bangladesh, followed by Fr Johny Ruram and Fr Sentu Lawrence Biswas. Two deacons, Dn Ankur Boiragi and Dn Dip Dinesh, are awaiting ordination.
