Twenty-two young aspirants took an important step in their vocational journey as they arrived at the Salesian Pre-Novitiate House, Dotma, on the afternoon of 30 May 2026 to begin their period of Pre-Novitiate formation.

Prior to their arrival at Dotma, the aspirants underwent an intensive period of preparation at Don Bosco Gojapara. The programme was designed to help them deepen their understanding of Salesian life, strengthen their spiritual foundation, and prepare themselves for the formative experiences that lie ahead.

The group was accompanied to Dotma by Rev. Fr. Naresh Jojowar, SDB, Principal of Don Bosco School, Gojapara, along with Cleric Santrius Ekka, SDB, who journeyed with the aspirants and offered guidance and encouragement as they embarked on this new phase of formation.

Upon their arrival, the aspirants received a warm and cordial welcome from Rev. Fr. Mackley Gomes, SDB, Director of the Pre-Novitiate, and Rev. Fr. Ajay Xaxa, SDB, Administrator. The members of the community welcomed the young men with Salesian hospitality, making them feel at home as they begin their life at the Pre-Novitiate.

The formal initiation of the twenty-two candidates into the Pre-Novitiate programme will take place on 1 June 2026, during a ceremony to be presided over by the Vice Provincial, in the presence of the Salesian community of Don Bosco Dotma.

The Pre-Novitiate period is a significant stage in Salesian formation, offering candidates an opportunity to grow in prayer, community life, human maturity, and vocational discernment as they prepare themselves for entrance into the Novitiate.

The Salesian Province extends its prayerful best wishes to the twenty-two Pre-Novices as they begin this important chapter of their lives. It expresses gratitude to the Community of Don Bosco Gojapara for taking care of the aspirants in the last two months. Special thanks to Fr Denis Toju Sangma SDB, Parish Priest, to Rev Fr Naresh Jojowar SDB, Principal, Fr Philemon Pumah SDB, Asst. Parish Priest, Deacon Markus Kurbah SDB and Cleric Santrius Ekka SDB for guiding the aspirants. May the Lord continue to guide and strengthen them as they deepen their commitment to follow Christ in the spirit of St. John Bosco and prepare themselves for the Novitiate and future service in the Church.