Shillong, 16 October 2026: The First Retreat for Practical Trainees and Student Brothers was held at the Pastoral Centre, Shillong, from the evening of 10 October to the morning of 16 October 2026. A total of 35 Brothers participated, comprising mostly Practical Trainees and a few Student Brothers. The retreat offered a valuable opportunity for spiritual renewal, prayer, reflection, and a deeper understanding of their religious vocation and Salesian identity.
The retreat commenced at 6:00 PM on 10 October with a keynote address and orientation by Fr. Jeven Lakra, SDB, Vice Provincial. He addressed the gathering, introduced the purpose and significance of the retreat, and discussed the programme’s details, preparing the participants for the days of spiritual enrichment ahead.
The retreat was preached by Fr. Ioannis War Pakma, SDB, Rector of St. Anthony’s College, Shillong. The central theme focused on the Eucharist, exploring its significance through Sacred Scripture, the teachings of the Church Fathers, its historical development, and accounts of Eucharistic miracles. These reflections invited the Brothers to deepen their understanding of the Eucharist as the source and summit of Christian life and as the centre of their personal spirituality and Salesian mission.
In addition to the principal theme, the retreat addressed other important dimensions of spiritual life, particularly forgiveness and the importance of being active in the quietness. These reflections encouraged the participants to cultivate inner peace, practise forgiveness, foster reconciliation, and discover God’s presence in silence and contemplation. The sessions also offered opportunities for personal examination and prayer, helping the brothers reflect on their relationships, community life, and apostolic responsibilities.
Throughout the retreat, the participants were encouraged to strengthen their personal relationship with Christ, renew their commitment to religious life, and grow in the spirit of Don Bosco. The period of recollection enabled them to step away from their daily responsibilities and dedicate themselves to listening to the Word of God, prayer, and spiritual reflection. It also strengthened fraternity among the brothers through their shared journey of faith and formation.
The retreat concluded on the morning of 16 October 2026 with the celebration of the Holy Mass, followed by a short thanksgiving gathering. The participants expressed their gratitude to God for the spiritual experience and for the guidance and insights received throughout the retreat.
This First Retreat marked an important moment of spiritual renewal for the Practical Trainees and Student Brothers. As the second retreat is scheduled to begin on 17 October 2026, this first group concluded its programme with renewed faith, a deeper appreciation of the Eucharist, and a strengthened commitment to living the Salesian vocation with dedication, humility, and joy.
Reported by-Cl. Sniawshngain Papang
