The Province witnessed a joyful and prayerful occasion at Sunnyside Novitiate on 09 May 2026, as nine novices of the Province officially received the cassock and the cross during the solemn Vestition Ceremony celebrated in the Holy Eucharist. As they prepare for their First Profession scheduled for 24 May 2026, the novices were formally vested with the religious habit, marking an important milestone in their Salesian journey. Altogether, 34 novices: 25 from INS and 9 from ING, received the religious cassock and cross on this significant occasion.

The Eucharistic celebration was presided over by Fr. John Zosiama, Provincial of Shillong, in the presence of Fr. Paul Olphindro Lyngkot, the Novice Master, members of the Salesian community, and invited guests.

The vestition ceremony marks a significant stage in the life of a Salesian novice. By receiving the religious habit, the novices publicly express their desire to follow Christ more closely in the spirit and charism of St. John Bosco. The novitiate period is dedicated to deeper formation, prayer, discipline, and discernment in preparation for the first religious vows.

Among the novices preparing for profession, INS will have two Salesian Brothers, while ING will have four Salesian Brothers, reflecting the continued growth and importance of the vocation of the Salesian Brotherhood within the congregation.

In his homily, Fr. John Zosiama encouraged the novices to remain faithful to their calling and to cultivate lives rooted in prayer, humility, and service to the young, especially the poor and marginalized. He reminded them that religious life is not merely about wearing the habit but about becoming living witnesses of Christ through dedication, sacrifice, and joyful service.

The atmosphere at Sunnyside was marked by joy, gratitude, and hope as the novices took this important step in their religious journey. The presence of the Salesian community and well-wishers added warmth and encouragement to the celebration.

The First Profession ceremony on 24 May is expected to be another grace-filled moment as the novices formally commit themselves to the Salesian way of life through the vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience.