A deep spirit of prayer, thanksgiving, and joy marked the celebration of the Perpetual Profession of seven Salesian clerics of the Salesian Province of Mary Help of Christians, Guwahati, held at St Joseph’s Co-Cathedral, Panbazar, Guwahati, on Saturday, 23 May 2026 at 10:00 a.m. The Eucharistic celebration was presided over by Rev. Fr Sebastian Kuricheal SDB, Provincial of the Guwahati Province, in the presence of Salesians, religious, parents, family members, benefactors, and numerous faithful who gathered to witness the lifelong commitment of the young Salesians.

During the homily, Fr Sebastian Kuricheal reflected on the call to discipleship and the courageous witness required of every consecrated person in today’s world. He reminded the newly professed clerics that religious life is not a path of comfort, but a journey of total surrender to God and generous service to His people.

Drawing inspiration from the readings of the day, the Provincial emphasized that the light of Christ conquers darkness and that the vocation of a Salesian is to become a sign of hope, especially for the young, the poor, and those who are searching for meaning in life. He exhorted the brothers to remain rooted in prayer, faithful to their vocation, and steadfast amidst the challenges of modern society marked by materialism, individualism, and spiritual confusion.

Fr Sebastian encouraged the newly professed to live their consecration joyfully and authentically, reminding them that they are sons of God called to proclaim His love through their witness and ministry. He also stressed the importance of fraternity, obedience, simplicity of life, and missionary zeal in the Salesian vocation.

Speaking about the challenges faced by young religious today, he urged the clerics to remain faithful to their identity and mission in a world increasingly influenced by superficiality and digital distractions. He called on them to become true witnesses of the Gospel, using even modern means of communication responsibly for evangelization and the service of humanity.

The Provincial further reminded the faithful gathered for the celebration that every vocation is a gift from God and a sign of His enduring love for the Church. He thanked the families, formators, and communities that accompanied the young Salesians in their vocational journey.

Addressing the gathering after the Holy Mass, Rev. Fr Sebastian Kuricheal SDB, Provincial, congratulated all the brothers who made their Perpetual Profession and described the occasion as a significant milestone in their spiritual journey. He reminded the newly professed that perpetual profession is not the end of their vocation journey, but rather the beginning of a deeper commitment and total surrender to the Lord.

Quoting St Augustine, the Provincial said, “Our hearts are restless until they rest in God,” emphasizing that the ultimate goal of every consecrated person is union with God. He encouraged the brothers to continue striving each day toward that final goal through fidelity, prayer, and generous service.

Fr Sebastian highlighted that religious life is a journey filled not only with joy and fulfillment but also with sacrifices, challenges, and moments of difficulty. Yet, he noted that true happiness comes from walking faithfully with the Lord despite the struggles encountered along the way. He encouraged the newly professed to remain steadfast in their vocation, trusting that God accompanies them in every stage of life.

The Provincial further stressed the importance of remaining faithful to the Salesian vocation and to the Constitutions of the Congregation. He reminded the brothers that fidelity to God and commitment to the Congregation are essential for a fruitful and meaningful religious life.

Expressing gratitude to the parents and family members present for the celebration, Fr Sebastian acknowledged their sacrifices, encouragement, and unwavering support in nurturing the vocations of the young Salesians. He stated that the achievement of the newly professed brothers was not merely the result of personal effort, but also the fruit of the prayers, guidance, and accompaniment of their families and loved ones.

The felicitation programme concluded with words of appreciation, cultural presentations, and a fellowship meal shared in a spirit of Salesian family joy and fraternity.