The Salesians who participated at the Regional Meeting (Assam Plain) at Hubert D’ Rosario Aspirantate, Sirajuli.
The Regional Meeting (Assam Plain) of the Salesian Province of Mary Help of Christians, Guwahati was held on 14th June 2025 at Hubert D’ Rosario Aspirantate, Sirajuli. The event brought together Salesians from across the Assam Plains to reflect on pressing concerns, share fraternal dialogue, and strengthen their commitment to the Salesian charism.
The day began at 9:30 AM with a welcome by the aspirants of the Hubert D’ Rosario Aspirantate through welcome song, a choir presentation, and an instrumental piece. Rev Fr Ethelbert Minj SDB, Rector of the house, officially welcomed the Provincial and all the Salesians gathered. This was followed by a hymn to the Holy Spirit and the ceremonial lighting of the lamp. Rev Fr Nicodim Aind SDB, Provincial Councillor, led the opening prayer, invoking God’s grace upon the meeting and its participants.
The keynote address was delivered by Rev Fr Sebastian Kuricheal SDB, Provincial, who offered a reflection on the identity and mission of a Salesian. Highlighting the theme of the just concluded 29th General Chapter (GC29), he reminded the confreres that their identity is rooted in working for the young. “We must have a passion for the young people in our communities and centres,” he emphasized. He also urged the Salesians to remember their primary identity as consecrated religious, not social workers (NGOs), and highlighted the centrality of community life. “We are first community members, and so the community should be given priority above our individualism.” He concluded by calling on all participants to “assimilate and live the spirit of GC29 in our day-to-day life.”
The first session of the day was an animation on GC29, led by Rev Fr Joy Kachappilly SDB, Delegate of the GC29 and Provincial Chapter Moderator. This was followed by an engaging floor discussion, where the confreres clarified doubts and reflected on the core messages of the General Chapter.
The second session that followed, focuses on the concerns specific to the Assam Plains region. Moderated by Rev Fr Ethelbert Minj SDB, this session allowed rectors and community leaders to present reports and share the challenges they face in their respective communities. Broader regional concerns were also raised, and one significant suggestion was the potential purchase of land in Dergaon for future development of a new centre.
The meeting concluded with a vote of thanks and a concluding prayer by Rev Fr Anugrah Tete SDB, followed by a fraternal lunch. The gathering proved to be a meaningful occasion of reflection, unity, and renewed dedication to the Salesian mission in the Assam Plains.
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