Rev. Fr Sebastian Kuricheal SDB, Provincial, along with the Heads of the Provincial Commissions during the Commission Heads Meeting at the Provincial House, Panbazar.
In a significant move towards coordinated planning and implementation, the Heads of the various Commissions of the Province gathered for an important meeting on 18th July 2025 at the Mario Hall, Provincial House, Panbazar, Guwahati. The meeting aimed to foster greater synergy among the commissions as part of the broader framework of the Salesian Plan.
The meeting began with an opening prayer led by Fr Abhilash V.J., SDB, followed by a welcome address by the Provincial, Rev. Fr Sebastian Kuricheal, SDB. In his address, Fr Kuricheal emphasized the importance of a unified vision and collaboration across all sectors of the Salesian mission in the Province. He noted that commissions should not merely exist in the Directory but should be active bodies engaged in proper planning and deliberation.
He added that each commission should inspire its members to become “passionate about our own roles in the different centres and presences.” Our coming together, he stated, should help make the plan and mission of the Congregation a lived reality. He also stressed the need for collaboration among commissions to better serve the young people entrusted to our care.
Fr Bivan Rodrigues Mukhim, SDB, Vice Provincial, delivered the keynote presentation titled “The Need for a Salesian Plan: Commissions”, which became the highlight of the day’s agenda.
In his thought-provoking address, Fr Bivan articulated the urgent need for a structured Salesian Plan to strengthen animation and governance across the Province. Drawing insights from the recent SPCSA General Assembly in Bangalore, he underlined that a Salesian Plan is not just a document but a pastoral and strategic framework deeply rooted in the Salesian Charism, the General Chapters (GC), and Provincial Chapters.
He emphasized that such a plan must reflect the local context, address current challenges, prioritize missionary thrusts, and aim for clarity of vision, unity of action, and coordinated ministry across apostolic sectors. Quoting 1 Corinthians 12:12, “We are many parts, but one body,” he highlighted the spirit of collaboration required of all commissions.
Fr Bivan elaborated on the vital role of the Commissions in animating, coordinating, and evaluating sectoral ministries, ensuring alignment with Provincial priorities, and promoting collaboration among communities. He stressed that commissions are key instruments for implementing the Salesian mission, with contributions ranging from action planning and training to project coordination and evaluation.
Proposing a way forward, he recommended that each commission should:
- Meet at least three times a year,
- Conduct a minimum of two programmes annually, and
- Submit regular activity reports to the Vice Provincial.
In his concluding appeal, Fr Bivan urged all commission heads to work “with passion, purpose, and unity,” and to view themselves not merely as administrators but as missionary collaborators building a more vibrant and responsive Salesian Province.
Each Commission Head then presented their report and action plan for the year 2025–2026. The brief yet meaningful presentations—limited to three minutes each—offered a snapshot of ongoing initiatives and future goals, while encouraging mutual alignment and constructive feedback.
The meeting concluded with words of encouragement and a heartfelt vote of thanks from Fr Sebastian Kuricheal, SDB. He urged all present to keep the commissions alive and active, and to make each sector more efficient in serving the young. The concluding prayer was led by Fr Solomon Denis, SDB.
