RMG – SDB Province: the “Sacred Heart of Jesus” Province of India-Bangalore (INK)

02 April 2025
RMG – SDB Province: the “Sacred Heart of Jesus” Province of India-Bangalore (INK)

(ANS – Rome) – The Salesian Province of Bangalore, dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, has a rich history of service and commitment to the holistic development of youth. Established on March 19, 1979, the Province was carved out from the erstwhile Madras Province (now Chennai Province) to better address the growing pastoral and social needs of the region. Over the decades, it has grown into a beacon of hope and transformation, staying true to the mission and vision of Don Bosco by focusing on the integral development of the poor, marginalized, and disadvantaged, especially the youth. 

The Province began with 184 confreres and 15 houses spread across Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, and part of Tamil Nadu. Over time, it witnessed significant growth and reorganization. In April 1992, the Province of Hyderabad was formed, further enabling mission expansion and effective administration. Today, the Bangalore Province encompasses 48 presences across Kerala and Karnataka, making a profound impact on society through its educational, pastoral, and developmental initiatives. 

Formation and Growth 

The Province's journey has been marked by the steady growth of its formation houses, missionary vocations, and the expansion of its presence in numerous dioceses. Currently, the Province operates: 

  • Formation Houses: 10 
  • Schools: 29, with 7,772 students and 775 teaching staff 
  • Colleges: 8, serving 3,556 students 
  • Vocational & Technical Training Institutes: 22, with 2,339 students 
  • Boarding/Hostels: 23, accommodating 1,170 students 

The Province has also established a strong outreach to vulnerable groups through its Young at Risk (YaR) and Community Development Programmes, including street presences, day care/night shelters, and child labor prevention initiatives. 

Leadership and Contribution 

The growth and success of the Province have been guided by dynamic leadership from successive Provincials, starting with Fr. Thomas Thayil (1979–1985) and continuing to the present Provincial, Fr. Jose Thomas Koyickal (2021–). Their leadership has upheld the spirit of Don Bosco by fostering a culture of service, education, and faith-based community building. 

The Province’s accomplishments are also reflected in its missionary contributions, with 24 missionaries actively serving in different parts of the world and 380 Salesians working across Kerala and Karnataka. The Salesians’ presence extends to 26 dioceses, offering hope and support to countless individuals through their innovative projects and pastoral care. 

Special Focus Areas 

The Province has focused on addressing contemporary social challenges through initiatives like: 

  1. DREAM (Drugs Rehabilitation Education and Mentoring): 
    This project addresses the growing issue of substance abuse among youth in 10 districts of Kerala, supported by a Treatment and Rehabilitation Center in Monvila, Trivandrum.
  2. KISMAT (Kerala Interstate Migrants Alliance for Transformation): 
    An integrated network of 12 migrant help desks across Kerala providing rights-based developmental services and support for interstate migrants. 
  3. Projects for Street Children and Child Labourers: 
    Through BOSCO (Bangalore Oniyavar Seva Coota) and other initiatives, the Province offers holistic services such as open homes, shelters, rehabilitation centers, vocational training, and education to over 5,000 children annually. 

The Salesian Family 

The Province maintains close collaboration with other branches of the Salesian Family, including: 

  • FMA (Daughters of Mary Help of Christians): 34 presences (219 sisters)
  • Salesian Cooperators: 29 units (710 members)
  • Past Pupils: 18 centers (2,954 members) 
  • ADMA (Association of Mary Help of Christians): 8 units (300 members) 
  • MSMHC (Missionary Sisters of Mary Help of Christians): 8 presences (105 sisters) 

The Salesian Family's efforts amplify the mission and vision of Don Bosco, ensuring a unified and impactful outreach. 

The Salesian Province of Bangalore stands as a testament to the enduring vision of Don Bosco, rooted in the Gospel values of love, peace, and justice. Through its unwavering commitment to education, pastoral care, and social transformation, the Province has touched countless lives across Kerala and Karnataka. 

Inspired by the compassionate love of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, the Province continues to dedicate itself to the integral development of youth, particularly the poor and marginalized, in collaboration with all those striving for a just and inclusive society. As it journeys forward, the Province remains steadfast in its mission, building a brighter future for the young and creating a world of hope, opportunity, and dignity.

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