Shillong 2nd February: The Province of Shillong celebrated the feast of St. John Bosco in the Shillong region together with all the Salesian Family members at Don Bosco Technical School (DBTS), Shillong.
The programme began at 9.30 a.m. with a welcome address by Fr. Shinning Dkhar, SDB, the Principal of DBTS. This was followed by a song presented the students of DBTS. Thereafter, Fr. Provincial formally introduced and felicitated the new Coordinator of the Salesian Cooperators.
Fr. Jose Varikasseril SDB then presented the Strenna of 2026. He began by explaining the meaning of Strenna. He reminded the Salesian Family that Don Bosco Technical School, Shillong, represents Valdocco during the time of Don Bosco. Speaking on the theme “Do whatever He tells you”, he made reflections on how Mother Mary, as the servant of the Lord, obeyed the Word of God. He highlighted her qualities as the Mother of God and as our Mother. He also referred to the themes he had written about in his booklet. Furthermore, he reminded the Salesian Family that the Strenna offers an opportunity for prayer, reflection, listening and fraternity. He exhorted everyone to follow the example of the servants who obeyed whatever Jesus and Mother Mary asked them to do. He encouraged priests, religious, Salesian Cooperators and lay people to look, listen, choose and act like Mary in the Gospel, who willingly helped a family in need by interceding and asking Jesus to act.
The instrumental and song by Br. Dianetious along with the brothers and hostellers gave a fitting end to the first part of the event.
The Eucharistic celebration was presided over by Fr. John Zosiama SDB, the Provincial of the Province of Shillong, and concelebrated by 29 other priests. Those present at the Mass included Salesian Sisters, Salesian Brothers, Missionaries of Charity Sisters, novices from three different Salesian families, Salesian Cooperators, hostel boys, friends and well-wishers.
Fr Provincial welcomed everyone and wished them a happy feast. In his homily, he thanked those present and reflected on the Salesian Congregation as a God-inspired movement that began humbly with Don Bosco and grew like the mustard seed.
He highlighted the celebration as gratitude for the gift of Don Bosco and stressed the importance of a family spirit where everyone feels loved, accepted and united beyond cultural differences. He recalled Don Bosco’s Preventive System of reason, religion and loving-kindness, encouraging attentive listening to Jesus, humble service to the poor and marginalised, and fidelity to Don Bosco’s spirit while working together as one family.
After the Holy Mass, everyone gathered once again for lunch. Fr Joby expressed his gratitude to all those present and thanked everyone for their contributions to the DBTS community in whatever way possible. A sumptuous lunch was served for all.
Reported by Novice Mebanlam Nongkynrih
