The Province hosted the 26th Assembly of the Salesian Provincials Conference of South Asia (SPCSA) which commenced on March 2 at the Don Bosco Institute, Guwahati, bringing together 45 participants for a two-day deliberation on leadership, mission, and youth ministry. The inaugural session was graced by Fr Biju Michael, President of SPCSA and Regional Councillor for South Asia, and Fr Rafael Bejarano, General Councillor for Youth Ministry from Rome.
The assembly began with a solemn Eucharistic celebration presided over by Fr Biju Michael. Drawing inspiration from the liturgy of the day, he reflected deeply on God’s compassion and the Christian vocation to mirror this compassion in leadership and service. In his homily and introductory address, he underscored the importance of discernment and prioritisation in leadership. Authentic leadership, he noted, demands clarity of vision and the courage to identify what truly matters for personal growth and collective happiness.
Referring to the life and charism of Don Bosco, Fr Biju highlighted the Preventive System as a timeless model of leadership rooted in presence, accompaniment, and foresight. Education, he stressed, must not be reactive but proactive — not merely addressing crises as they arise, but walking with the young in such a way that difficulties are prevented before they take root. Leadership in the Salesian tradition, therefore, is an act of loving presence and responsible guidance.
In his animation talk, Fr Rafael Bejarano presented the Youth Ministry Frame of Reference, advocating an integral, interconnected, inclusive, and participatory approach to ministry among the young. He cautioned against tendencies that weaken communion in mission, identifying genericism, personalism, disintegration, activism, and improvisation as “cracks” that can fragment the mission if left unaddressed. He called upon the Provincials and leaders to strengthen unity of vision and foster collaborative planning rooted in Salesian spirituality.
The participants were formally welcomed by Fr Sebastian Kuricheal, Provincial of the Salesian Province of Guwahati, who extended warm greetings in the rich traditional style of Northeast India. The day also included presentations of annual reports by various Network Heads, offering a comprehensive overview of ongoing initiatives and pastoral engagements across the South Asia region.
Adding a vibrant cultural dimension to the gathering, students of Don Bosco Institute, Guwahati, presented a lively cultural programme that celebrated the heritage and youthful dynamism of the region, leaving the assembly both inspired and entertained.
The second day of the assembly will focus on discussions regarding the Region’s Six-Year Plan. Fr Biju Michael will animate this session, outlining strategic priorities and setting clear directions for strengthening the Salesian mission in South Asia, with renewed emphasis on compassionate leadership and effective youth ministry.
