Herma, 29 July 2026: Bosco Home, Herma organized a Symposium on the Salesian Saints on 29th July 2026, providing the Pre-Novices with an enriching opportunity to deepen their knowledge of the saints, blesseds, venerables, and servants of God of the Salesian Family. The symposium sought not only to foster a greater appreciation of the rich heritage of Salesian holiness but also to develop the participants’ skills in research, critical thinking, public speaking, teamwork, and confident presentation. It served as an excellent platform for the Pre-Novices to organize their thoughts, collaborate effectively, and communicate their ideas with clarity and conviction.
The symposium was thoughtfully divided into four thematic categories, each highlighting a unique dimension of Salesian holiness. Group I presented on “Founders and Builders of the Salesian Congregation” under the theme “Founding and Building a School of Holiness.” Their presentation traced the inspiring lives of the pioneers who laid the spiritual and institutional foundations of the Salesian Congregation, emphasizing their unwavering faith, visionary leadership, and total dedication to God’s mission.
Group II explored “Missionaries and Martyrs” with the theme “Witnessing to Christ until Death.” Through inspiring accounts of heroic missionaries and martyrs, the group illustrated how the Salesian charism has spread across the world through lives of sacrifice, missionary zeal, and unwavering fidelity to Christ, even to the point of martyrdom.
Group III presented on “Salesian Brothers and Humble Servants” under the theme “Holiness in Ordinary Daily Service.” Their presentation highlighted the extraordinary sanctity attained through simple, humble, and faithful service, reminding everyone that holiness is found in carrying out one’s daily duties with love, humility, and generosity.
Group IV focused on “Young Saints and Lay Members of the Salesian Family” with the theme “Young People Called to Holiness.” The presenters beautifully demonstrated that holiness is attainable at every stage of life and that young people and lay collaborators are also called to become witnesses of Christ through lives marked by faith, purity, charity, and joyful commitment.
The symposium was graced by the presence of the Fathers and Brothers of the community. The programme commenced at 9:00 a.m. with an opening prayer led by the Missionary Sodality, followed by the inaugural address of Fr. Suman Kumar Kiro, SDB, Vice Rector. Fr. Santreki Muliar, SDB, Counsellor, introduced the purpose and significance of the symposium, encouraging the participants to look upon the Salesian saints as living models of discipleship and missionary zeal.
The presentations reflected careful historical research, profound spiritual insights, and inspiring reflections on the lives of the holy men and women of the Salesian Family. Each group displayed commendable preparation, teamwork, and confidence in presenting their respective themes. The audience greatly appreciated the depth of knowledge shared and was inspired by the heroic witness of those who faithfully lived the Gospel in diverse states of life and circumstances.
The symposium concluded successfully at 1:00 p.m. with a joyful photo session, bringing to a close a memorable and fruitful academic and spiritual event. More than an academic exercise, the symposium deepened everyone’s appreciation of the rich legacy of holiness within the Salesian Family and inspired the Pre-Novices to pursue their vocation with renewed zeal, generosity, and the conviction expressed by St. John Bosco: “Holiness consists in always being cheerful and doing one’s duties well.”
Reported by: Cl. Mark Shanbor Thyrniang
