Event Overview
The Salesian Province of Tiruchy is set to mark a momentous milestone, celebrating the Silver Jubilee of its foundation on August 5, 2024, in Thanjavur, the historic location where the first Salesians arrived in India in 1906. The Jubilee festivities will be presided over by Rev. Fr. Stefano Martoglio, the Vicar to the Rector Major, at Don Bosco Thanjavur. The event will commence with a solemn Eucharistic celebration, featuring concelebrants such as Rev. Fr. Biju Michael, the South Asian Regional, and all the Provincials of the region. A grand cultural event will follow, showcasing the diverse mission activities of the province.
Preparations for the Jubilee
In preparation for the Silver Jubilee, the Province has engaged in a three-year period of intense activities and reflections, focusing on Salesian identity, mission, and spirituality. These preparations have included a community-wide scientific impact analysis, a symposium based on these studies, the plantation of 100,000 trees, initiatives to maximize solar energy usage across the province, the establishment of a youth resource center, a center for competitive examinations, cultural competitions, and various publications. The grand event on August 5 will serve as the crowning achievement of these comprehensive celebrations.
Rev. Fr. Stefano Martoglio’s Visit
As part of the Jubilee celebrations, Rev. Fr. Stefano Martoglio will engage with various community members throughout his visit. On August 2, he will interact with Young at Risk (YaR) children in Salem and then move to Yercaud to address young Salesians, spending the day with them on August 3. On August 4, he will meet with Salesian Family members at Don Bosco Manikandam in Tiruchy. After celebrating the Holy Eucharist, he will visit the FMA Provincial House and a nearby presence of the SMA congregation. On August 5, after the main celebrations, he will address members of the SPCSA in Thanjavur and later bless and inaugurate the newly built TNCRI campus in Tiruchy, presiding over the Holy Eucharist. Members of various religious congregations will join in the celebrations.
Duration and Final Visits
Rev. Fr. Stefano Martoglio will be in the province from August 2 to August 7. During this period, he will visit numerous Salesian Houses representing various sectors of the mission. Before his departure, he will visit the Shrine Basilica of Our Lady of Velankanni, the Patroness of the Province. The media department of the Province, Alaihal, will live-telecast the final events on August 5 from Thanjavur, ensuring that the celebrations reach a wider audience.
Significance of the Jubilee
This Silver Jubilee celebration is not just a time of reflection and thanksgiving but also a renewed dedication to the Salesian spirit and values. The Jubilee promises to be a remarkable event, underscoring the enduring commitment of the Salesian Province of Tiruchy to its mission and community.