India – DBYA-SA organises a formation programme for young Salesians
Mumbai, India – September 2024 – From 19 to 21 September the South Asian Youth Animation Team (DBYA-SA) organised a formation programme for young Salesians, which took place at the Provincial House in Mumbai. The meeting brought together 19 participants from five Provinces of India, with the aim of preparing themselves on some Salesian documents and methods and to live the Salesian charism together with young people. Those present were animated by Fr John Christy, of INM, Fr Joji Yeruva, of INH, Fr Leon Cruz, of INB, Br Peter Das and Fr Patrick Lepcha, of DBYA. The event was also attended by Fr Savio Silveira, Superior of the INB Province, who, during Holy Mass, urged everyone to "live the dream and mission of Don Bosco". Paraphrasing Strenna 2024, then, Fr Silveira said that it is the task of the Salesians to take care of the dreams and aspirations of young people. Subsequently, various topics were addressed, such as the situation of young Indians, education, evangelisation and the importance of accompaniment. The group also had the opportunity to discuss how to carry out the Salesian Youth Movement in the various contexts of the South Asia Region. On the day of the Feast of St Matthew, the Rector Major Emeritus, Fr Pascual Chávez Villanueva was main celebrant at the Mass. Among the distinguished guests of the event are Archbishop Leopoldo Girelli, Apostolic Nuncio to India and Nepal, and Cardinal Oswald Gracias, Archbishop of Mumbai.