Shillong 1st November: The Rectors’, Leaders’ and Parish Priests’ Meeting of the Salesian Province of Shillong was held from 28th to 30th October 2025 at the Don Bosco Provincial House, Mawlai, Shillong. The meeting brought together Rectors and Leaders from 42 communities across the province, along with the Provincial, Fr. John Zosiama, and his Council members.
The meeting began on a solemn note with the Holy Eucharist presided over by Fr. Biju Michael SDB, the General Councillor for South Asia. Following the Mass, Fr. Biju animated the first session, focusing on the roles, duties, and responsibilities of Rectors and Leaders as outlined in the Constitution and Regulations of the Salesian Congregation. His insightful reflections provided guidance and renewed inspiration for the participants.
In the afternoon session, participants were introduced to the Mission Poverty Eradication Project of South Asia, animated by Fr. James Thyrniang and Mr. Jeffree. The session enlightened the members on the project’s aims and methods of implementation. Later in the evening, Fr. Jeevan Lakra, the Vice-Provincial, presented a comprehensive report of the Formation Commission with detailed statistics and figures that gave a clear picture of the province’s growth in fostering vocations. His report was well appreciated by all.
The day concluded with a presentation on Missionary Animation Works across the province by Fr. Saji Stephen SDB, who highlighted the commendable efforts of various communities and encouraged everyone to carry forward the missionary mandate of the Church with greater zeal.
The second day’s sessions began with a presentation on the Financial Situation and Management of the province by Fr. Genesius Wanniang, the Provincial Economer. He presented the current financial status and ongoing developmental projects across the province, supported by visuals and figures, which were well appreciated by all. He also expressed gratitude to all houses for their generous contributions.
The members then discussed the Centralization Policy on school uniforms and notebooks, with a detailed presentation by Br. Regy and Fr. Saji, which was highly appreciated and encouraged. The YaR and Migrant Ministry Commission also shared their report, highlighting both achievements and challenges faced in their pastoral outreach.
The session on Education to Faith, presented by Fr. Barnes Mawrie, gave a comprehensive overview of faith education initiatives in the province. He urged all communities to maintain systematic documentation of every faith-based activity. A highly informative and thought-provoking session on Evangelization and Artificial Intelligence (AI) by Fr. Michael Makri followed, which was enriching for all the participants and emphasized the integration of technology in evangelization.
The third day began with the Holy Eucharist presided over by Fr. John Zosiama, the Provincial. The morning session featured a report on Vocation Promotion and Youth Ministry presented by Fr. Ritonbor, highlighting statistical updates and youth-related activities in the province. Bro. Regy conducted an engaging session on Technical Education, outlining the significant impact of Salesian technical institutes and the thousands of students benefitting from their training programmes. Fr. Babu Stephen also provided updates and insights regarding the forthcoming NECDBS Conference to be held in the province.
The three-day meeting concluded with a concluding address by Fr. John Zosiama, who synthesized the discussions and presentations, drawing valuable lessons and offering words of encouragement. He expressed gratitude to all Rectors, Leaders, and Parish Priests for their active participation, unity, and dedication to the Salesian mission.
Overall, the three-day meeting was very fruitful and enriching. The participants enjoyed one another’s company, and their active involvement and fraternal spirit made the meeting a grand success. It served as a time of renewal, reflection, and recommitment to the Salesian charism and mission.
Reported by Frs. Stephen Babu sdb & George Shining Lyngkhoi sdb
