The celebration was organized by the INM Salesian Missionary Animation commission at Don Bosco Aspirantate community, Tirupattur, the cradle of Salesian India. The Celebration had two purposes: to inspire the Salesian candidates, who are in initial formation, with the missionary spirit of Don Bosco (Da mihi animas); and to motivate the Don Bosco pupils and students of our institutions with the Salesian passion for Christ.
The Salesian Mission Day had the participation of 112 Salesian candidates in formation, 70 pupils and students of Don Bosco institutions and 30 Salesians including missionaries, who worked in different parts of the Salesian world. The program began with the solemn rosary procession reminding the participants that all the sons of Don Bosco are pilgrims on this life’s journey with Mary, help of Christians, who protects and guides us under her mantle. This was followed by the Holy Eucharist celebrated by the INM Vice Provincial and Formation delegate, Fr. John Alex, who shared aptly the salient features of Mama Margaret and the importance of nurturing the Salesian Missionary Spirit. Special prayers were also offered for the deceased parents of the Salesians. The day had it’s further proceedings and there was lot of sharing on the part of the Salesians on their missionary experiences in different parts of the world.
The second day began with the Holy Eucharist celebrated by Fr. John Vigilius, the veteran Salesian missionary who worked in some parts of Africa and is at present working in the Andamans. During his homily he focused on Christ the good shepherd, as our model and inspiration, and gave other insights on the Salesian missions in Andamans. The forenoon of the second day included the first session with the video presentation on Salesian missions, primarily that in India, with focus on the Andamans. The second session was a very inspiring panel discussion with four veteran Salesian missionaries as speakers, moderated by Fr. John Alex, the Vice Provincial, which led to Q&A sessions.
The Salesian Mission Day celebration highlighted on the one hand the missionary generosity for Ad Gentes: Salesian missions in Africa and other parts of the world including the Salesian mission in the North East and on the Salesian mission in the Andaman islands. Certainly, the Salesian Mission Day 2023 instilled in all participants a renewed missionary zeal with the spirit of Don Bosco to be passionate about Jesus Christ and to be at the service of the needy young people. The young participants responded with great enthusiasm and passion to take forward the Salesian mission generously and build it with their contribution.
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