Rev. Fr. Sebastian Kuricheal, SDB, Provincial, and others during the release of the book by Late Fr. (Dr.) Francis Hembrom, SDB, “The Catechetical Ministry in Northeast India (1890–1962)”at the Provincial House, Guwahati.
On 14 August 2025 the Province paid a fitting tribute to the life and legacy of Late Fr (Dr) Francis Hembrom, SDB, with the release of his book “The Catechetical Ministry in Northeast India (1890–1962)”. The solemn programme was held at the Don Bosco Provincial House, Guwahati, and brought together Salesians, clergy, religious, and friends of Fr Hembrom to celebrate his contribution to catechetical ministry. The programme was organised by the Social Communication Commission of the Province.
The event began with Fr Joy Kachappilly SDB introducing the programme, followed by a welcome to the guests by Fr Pradeep Ekka SDB. The Holy Eucharist was presided over by Fr Sebastian Kuricheal SDB, Provincial, and the homily was delivered by Fr Jeevan Kishor Lakra SDB, Vice Provincial of the Province of Shillong. Fr Jeevan recalled Fr Francis Hembrom as a good entertainer always ready to make his companions laugh and as a linguist who could speak many languages and connect easily with everyone in his ministry. “It was his love for reading books and magazines that motivated him to complete his doctoral studies, and today we are able to release his book, which he himself would have loved to publish had he lived,” Fr. Jeevan said. “Fr Francis was always determined, never backing down, and at the same time remained fully committed to his mission,” Fr Jeevan added.
A Prayer of Commendation was led by Fr Philip Barjo, former Provincial of the ING Province, accompanied by a floral tribute from all present.
After the Holy Mass, Fr. Joy Kachappilly, SDB, briefly shared the circumstances that led to the publication of the book. The book was formally introduced by Fr. Jose Varickasseril, SDB, Professor at SHTC, Mawlai, and officially released by Fr. Sebastian Kuricheal. Fr. Jose Varickasseril, SDB, remarked that the book is a critical work that challenges us today regarding the missionary catechesis of earlier missionaries. He noted that it is not addressed to only one tribe of the Northeast but represents the entire region as a whole. Explaining the content of the book, Fr. Jose concluded by urging that it should be read in one sitting, then read again, and that the zeal highlighted in its pages should be lived out. He personally thanked Fr. Francis Hembrom for bringing out this treasure trove of catechetical insight.
The first copies were presented to distinguished guests, including Fr. Jeevan Lakra, Fr. Philip Barjo, former Provincial of Guwahati, Fr. Daniel Mardi, Parish priest of Udalguri and others, before being distributed to all in attendance. Speaking at the release of the book, Fr. Sebastian Kuricheal, SDB, Provincial, said, “This book lays the foundation for deepening the people’s faith. It takes us back to the early Salvatorian missionaries, the Jesuit missionaries, and the early Salesians.” He added, “Let this book be a tool to make our mission work more effective.”
Fr Daniel Mardi, Parish Priest of Udalguri, offered a heartfelt remembrance of Fr Francis in his speech, while Mr Marcel Hembrom, his nephew, shared personal recollections of his beloved uncle.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks by Fr Bivan Mukhim, acknowledging the contributions of all who made the occasion memorable.
About The Author
