Celebration Overview:
The Salesian Province of Tiruchy celebrated its Silver Jubilee with the Salesian Family on August 4, 2024, at the Don Bosco Media Centre, Manikandam, Tiruchy. The event was graced by the presence of Rev. Fr. Stefano Martoglio SDB, Vicar of the Rector Major, who presided over the celebration. Rev. Fr. Charles Joseph SDB, Rector of Don Bosco Manikandam, warmly welcomed him. Other dignitaries included Rev. Fr. Agilan Sarprasadam SDB, Provincial of Tiruchy Province, and Rev. Sr. Majella FMA, Provincial of Tiruchy Province.
Participants:
The celebration brought together representatives from various branches of the Salesian Family, including Salesians of Don Bosco (SDB), Daughters of Mary Help of Christians (FMA), Sisters of Mary Immaculate (SMI), Sisters of Mary Help of Christians (SMA), Volunteers of Don Bosco (VDB), The Disciples – Secular Institute, Salesian Cooperators, Association of Mary Help of Christians (ADMA), and the Association of the Past Pupils of Don Bosco. Rev. Fr. Patrick SDB, Secretary of the Vicar, provided translation of the Vicar’s speech in Tamil, ensuring that all attendees could fully participate.
Program Highlights:
The first part of the celebration featured felicitations, cultural programs, presentations of reports, and an interaction session with the Vicar of the Rector Major. This was followed by a solemn Holy Eucharist officiated by Rev. Fr. Stefano Martoglio SDB.
Speech Highlights:
In his speech, Rev. Fr. Stefano Martoglio conveyed special greetings and wishes from Cardinal Angel Fernandez Artime SDB, the Rector Major, to the Provincial, the Salesians, and all members of the Salesian Family on the occasion of the Silver Jubilee. He emphasized the significant role of lay participation in the mission, highlighting that approximately 135 Salesian houses worldwide are managed by laypeople. Reflecting on the recent Church Synod on ‘Synodality – Communion, Participation, and Mission,’ he noted the Church’s openness to lay participation.
Leadership and Mission Work:
When asked about lay collaborators as leaders, the Vicar stressed that leadership should be seen as a service to God and humanity, rather than a position of power or authority. He acknowledged India’s vast potential for mission work, urging the Salesian Family to continue their dedication to the youth and people. He emphasized that fidelity to God is paramount, rather than the number of activities or missions. The Vicar expressed gratitude for the blessings and guidance the province had received over the past twenty years and wished the province continued love, happiness, and prosperity in the years to come.
Conclusion:
The celebration concluded with a festive lunch, and jubilee gifts were distributed to all participants as a token of appreciation for their love and service to the province’s mission. The event was meticulously coordinated by Fr. Ferrington SDB, Salesian Family Delegate, with the assistance of delegates from various branches of the Salesian Family.
Rev. Fr. Henry Dominic SDB