Salesian Brothers Delegates from the different Provinces of India during the Salesian Brothers National Delegates Meet in New Delhi.
The South Asia Salesian Brothers National Delegates Meeting brought together 10 of 12 national delegates for a two-day gathering at Don Bosco Provincial House, New Delhi, on August 8–9, fostering unity, reflection, and renewed commitment to the Salesian mission.
The meeting opened with a solemn Eucharistic celebration presided over by Fr. Davis Maniparamben, Provincial of Delhi, and concelebrated by Vice Provincial Fr. Soy Noas Vijay. In his homily, Fr. Davis welcomed the brothers warmly, urging them to remain steadfast witnesses of Salesian values in today’s challenging times.
Following a prayer service led by Br. Bosco Ekka, Br. Heman, Delegate for the Delhi Province, extended a formal welcome, accompanied by a traditional shawl presentation to the participants. Fr. Davis then delivered an animation session on “How a Salesian Brother Can Be Effective in the Mission of Don Bosco”, outlining eight key principles that inspired meaningful discussion.
National Secretary Br. Arun Raj presented the minutes of the previous meeting, while National Delegate Br. James Marcus shared updates from the SPCSA Assembly and the National Formation Commission meeting in Goa. Delegates also exchanged best practices to promote the Brotherhood vocation, including the revival of the Chain Novena in all novitiates, dedicating community sick rooms to St. Zatti, translating his life story into regional languages, and producing resources such as photo frames, animation kits, and pamphlets celebrating veteran Salesian Brothers.
In the afternoon, Br. Vincent Castilino reported on Don Bosco Karunapuram, the post-novitiate centre for South Asia Salesian Brothers. Later, participants visited Don Bosco Alaknanda, where an evening animation on “Be Inspired and Be an Inspiration” encouraged brothers to share personal testimonies. The first day concluded with Vespers, Rosary, and a fraternal dinner with the community.
Day two began with Mass celebrated by Fr. Soy Noas Vijay, followed by a keynote address from SPCSA Secretary Fr. Johnny on “Don Bosco’s Mind – Can a Salesian Brother Be a Rector?”. Drawing on biblical, historical, and Salesian perspectives, as well as insights from GC29, he emphasized the competencies required for Rectorship and urged brothers to prepare for leadership roles. This sparked discussions on competency-based appointments to enhance governance and animation.
In the final session, Br. James Marcus revisited action points from the 2023–2024 Brothers Congress in Kolkata. Expressing gratitude to all participants and especially to Brother Heman, he thanked the Provincial and Provincial House community for their hospitality. The meeting concluded with a hymn to Don Bosco, invoking his blessing over the brothers’ mission.
Courtesy: BOSCOM, News written by: Br. Arun Raj SDB, National Secretary
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