TRAINING OF TRAINERS (TOT) FOR YOUNG SALESIANS ON YOUTH MINISTRY
September 19–20, 2025 | Don Bosco Provincial House, Shillong
The Training of Trainers (TOT) program on Youth Ministry, organized by Don Bosco Youth Animation – South Asia (DBYA-SA), was held on September 19–20, 2025, at Don Bosco Provincial House, Shillong, with 28 young Salesians participating from the provinces of Delhi, Kolkata, Dimapur, Guwahati, and Shillong. The program opened with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist presided over by Fr. Jeevan Lakra, SDB, Vice Provincial of Shillong, followed by the inaugural session during which Fr. Ritonbor Kharkongor, Youth Ministry Delegate, welcomed the participants and introduced the resource persons: Fr. Patrick Lepcha, SDB (Director, DBYA-SA), Fr. Shilanand Kerketta, SDB (Youth Ministry Delegate, Delhi Province), Fr. Joji Yeruva, SDB (Youth Director and Social Experience Coordinator, Hyderabad Province), and Fr. Michael Makri, SDB (Director, Don Bosco Media Network and Province Delegate for Social Communication).
During the inauguration, Fr. Jeevan Lakra delivered the Keynote Address, emphasizing the urgent call for young Salesians to take responsibility in reaching out to young people who are in need of accompaniment, care, and guidance as they face life’s challenges. He highlighted the importance of being present among the young, the need to understand their struggles, and the responsibility to respond to their real situations — helping them grow closer to God and become responsible contributors to the common good of society.
Over two days, the participants engaged in eleven rich sessions that deepened their understanding of Salesian Youth Ministry. They explored the Organigram of Youth Ministry in South Asia and its vision, reflected on the Salesian Charism in the light of the Frame of Reference, and learned about mentoring and accompaniment as key responsibilities of a Salesian. Practical tools for preparing Educative Pastoral Communities (EPC) and Salesian Educative Pastoral Plans (SEPP) were introduced, enabling participants to organize youth ministry systematically. Sessions also focused on the synodal nature of youth ministry, the importance of counselling and vocational guidance, and the need to foster volunteerism. Participants reflected on the skills of a youth minister, the spirit of the Oratorian heart, the four dimensions of youth ministry, and creative new forms of ministering to young people. A unique session highlighted the importance of engaging with young people in digital and online spaces as part of today’s mission.
A special highlight was the evening encounter with the youth, where Vancouver Shullai, President of SYM, shared what young people expect from young Salesians — to be heard and understood, to find a Church that welcomes without judgment, to have safe spaces for those struggling with addictions, and to see authenticity in leadership. The cultural evening featured choir performances and dances by the youth of St. Anthony’s and action songs by the Nongstoin region under Bro. Quirinus War. Fr. Anthony Kharkongor, SYM In-Charge of Shillong Province, shared his personal experiences of working with SYM and the importance of empowering young leaders. This encounter left participants deeply inspired and renewed their commitment to walk with the young.
The program concluded with a fraternal meal at St. Anthony’s Higher Secondary School and, on the following day, an exposure visit to Laitlum Canyon and Wahrashi Falls, providing a joyful moment of reflection, bonding, and thanksgiving. Heartfelt gratitude was expressed to DBYA-SA under the leadership of Fr. Patrick Lepcha and the resource persons for their inspiring animation. Special thanks were also offered to the Provincial Community, particularly Fr. Jeevan Lakra and the community members, for their encouragement and support, and to Bro. Hadrian, who ensured excellent hospitality, making the stay truly pleasant and memorable. A very special word of appreciation was also extended to all those who, with remarkable generosity, went out of their way to offer their time, resources, and assistance to ensure the smooth organization and success of this program. Their spirit of service and dedication greatly enriched the experience for all the participants.
Report by Fr. Ritonbor Kharkongor, sdb
Youth Ministry Delegate of INS