Shillong, 26th October 2025: On October 26, 2025, the Salesian Shillong Province organized a special felicitation program to honor its senior religious members who have served God and His people for more than 75 years. The event was held at Savio Juniorate, Shillong.
The religious members honored during this ceremony included: Fr. Gervasis Kozhupathadam, Fr. John Kalapura, Fr. Isaac Mattappilil, Br. Nello Valeri, Br. Carmel Muscat, Fr. Joseph Puthenpurakal, Fr. Anthony Valluran, Fr. Thomas Manooramparambil, Br. John Colombi, Fr. Paul Kuttala, Fr. Roland Kharkrang, Fr. Anthony Lendakavadil, Fr. Joseph Kavakadan, Fr. D. John Jayakumar, and Fr. Edmund Gomes.
The joyous celebration began with a Holy Mass, after which Fr. Jeevan Lakra, the Vice Provincial of the Shillong Province, extended a warm welcome to all who gathered for the occasion.
In his message, Fr. John Zosiama, Provincial of the Shillong Province, expressed deep gratitude to these senior religious members who came from near and far to join the celebration. He thanked them for their 75 years of faithful service to the province—especially for their commitment to the youth and the faithful.
He stated that this act of honoring the elderly religious serves as an inspiration for young people discerning their vocation to religious life. The example set by these veteran members encourages and strengthens the younger generation of Salesians, he said.
Fr. Zosiama personally presented tokens of honor to the senior religious, recognizing their lifelong dedication and service in the Lord’s vineyard.
After the felicitation, the students of Savio Juniorate added color and joy to the celebration through songs, dances, and musical performances, filling the event with happiness and gratitude.
Reported by: INS CORRESPONDENCE
