Shillong, October 29, 2025 — In a spirit of profound joy and gratitude, the Salesians of Don Bosco, Shillong Province, came
together to celebrate the Silver (25 years) and Golden (50 years) Jubilees of their religious and priestly vocations. The solemn yet festive occasion was a grace-filled moment of thanksgiving for God’s fidelity and the lifelong commitment of His servants to the Salesian mission among the young and the poor.
The celebration began with the Holy Eucharist at 5:00 p.m., presided over by Fr. L.B. Anthony, one of the Golden Jubilarians, and concelebrated by several priests of the Province, along with Salesian brothers, aspirants, and members of the Salesian Family. In his homily, Fr. Paul O. Lyngkot, reflected on the mystery of vocation, reminding the congregation that the journey of a consecrated life is a continual response to God’s call of love and service. He underlined that the jubilee is not only a celebration of years but also of faithful discipleship and the grace of perseverance.
Following the Eucharist, the community gathered for a Cultural Programme that expressed the joy and fraternity characteristic of Salesian
life. Fr. John Zosiama, Provincial of Shillong, led the felicitation ceremony, extending heartfelt gratitude and congratulations to the jubilarians
for their years of selfless service to God, the Church, and the Salesian Congregation.
Fr. L.B. Anthony was honoured for his Golden Jubilee of Priesthood, while Fr. James Mani Oravunkachalil celebrated his Golden Jubilee of Religious Profession. The Silver Jubilarians of Priesthood were Fr. Benedict Kharlyngoh, Fr. Paul O. Lyngkot, Fr. Festus E. Shadap, Fr. Peter Syiemlieh, Fr. Giles Thyrniang, and Fr. Christopher Warlarpih. Celebrating their Silver Jubilee of Religious Profession were Fr. James Doungel, Fr. Gabriel Jalong, Fr. Thomas Marak, Fr. Lucas Murmu, and Fr. Gervasius Nongkseh.
The event was further animated by songs and dances performed by the aspirants and brothers, radiating the Salesian spirit of joy and family
togetherness. In his message, Fr. John Zosiama invited all present to look at the jubilarians as “living witnesses of fidelity” — men who have walked faithfully with God and the young, embodying the charism of St. John Bosco in every stage of their ministry.
A video presentation, prepared by Fr. George Shining, beautifully portrayed the vocational journey of the jubilarians, highlighting moments of service, mission, and community life over the decades.
The celebration concluded with a vote of thanks by Fr. Christopher Warlarpih, who expressed gratitude on behalf of all the jubilarians, acknowledging the support, prayers, and fraternal encouragement received from the Province and the Salesian Family. The evening ended on a note of joy and thanksgiving, as the Province rejoiced in the enduring fidelity of God and the witness of those who have faithfully served in His vineyard.
Reported by INS Correspondent
