Five Young Salesians from the province: Fr Ravi Ekka, Fr Jonas Kujur, Fr John Rabha, Fr Cherak M. Sangma and Fr Jecky G. Sangma are attending a two-day training of trainers (TOT) on Salesian Youth Ministry in India from September 19–20, 2025. The Shillong Province is hosting the comprehensive training programme bringing together young Salesians from the provinces of Delhi, Dimapur, Guwahati, Kolkata, and Shillong to deepen their understanding of pastoral engagement with the youth in the spirit of Don Bosco.
The programme began on Friday with the Holy Eucharist, presided over by Fr. John Zosiama, Provincial of the INS Province, focusing on “God’s Preferential Love for Young People.” The inaugural programme was attended by Fr Patrick Lepcha, Coordinator, Don Bosco Youth Animation of South Asia (DBYASA), Fr Jeevan Kishore Lakra, Vice Provincial of Shillong, Fr Joji Reddy, Youth Animator from Hyderabad Province, Fr Shilanand Kerketta, Vice Provincial of New Delhi, Fr Barnes Mawrie and the participants.
The first day featured a series of insightful sessions. Fr. Patrick Lepcha highlighted the current realities of young people in India, while Fr. Shilanand Kerketta and Fr. Joji Yeruva led discussions on the Salesian Charism, mentoring, accompaniment, and the synodal dimension of youth ministry. The day will conclude with the SYM Shillong Family Circle, evening prayers, and fellowship.
On Saturday, September 20, the second day began with the Holy Eucharist celebrated by Fr. Sunil Lakra, Rector of SHTC, reflecting on the Sacred Heart of Jesus as the inspiration of the Salesian charism. Sessions included topics on accompanying young people through counselling and vocational discernment, traits of a youth minister, the role of social media in pastoral outreach, and the importance of the four dimensions of Salesian ministry will be discussed. The Participants will also be engaged in group animations and interactive sharing on new forms of ministering to the young.
The programme will conclude with a general evaluation and thanksgiving before participants proceed for a Shillong Darshan on Sunday, September 21, 2025. This comprehensive training aims to equip young Salesians with the necessary skills, attitudes, and spirit to effectively minister to today’s youth, staying faithful to Don Bosco’s vision while responding to contemporary challenges.
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