MINISTRIES

Howrah, 30 August: Around 150 young parishioners gathered at Don Bosco Liluah to celebrate Parish Youth Day with vibrant energy and devotion.

The memorable day commenced with a prayerful entrance dance and hymn, leading the concelebrants and the main celebrant, Rev. Fr. Sunil Kerketta, Provincial (INC), to the altar for the solemn Eucharistic celebration. In his inspiring homily, Fr. Provincial exhorted the youth never to lose heart during difficult and challenging times, reminding them that God walks faithfully by their side.

Following the Holy Mass, the youth assembled in the auditorium for the formal inauguration and an engaging session on the encyclical “Magnifica Humanitas.” Led by Fr. Arvind Khalkho, the session came alive through dynamic interactions and thought-provoking discussions. Fr. Arvind urged the gathering, “Do not allow technology to define who you are; instead, remain truly human—grounded in truth, love, freedom, authentic relationships, responsibility, and compassion.”

After a fellowship lunch, Sr. Nootan Rose CHF, Sr. Thresiamma AASC, and Bro. Roshan Ekka SDB shared touching insights into their religious journeys, encouraging the youth to listen to God’s call and generously respond to a life of service.

The afternoon transitioned into the vibrant talent showcase, “Beyond the Ordinary: 2 Minutes to Fame,” featuring high-energy solo and group performances. Bro. Roshan Ekka then energized the participants further with an action-packed, Gospel-based outdoor Treasure Hunt.

The day concluded in the auditorium with the prize distribution and a vote of thanks:

Solo Category (2 Minutes to Fame): George Mondal (1st place), Anisha Bar (2nd place), and Eva Minj (3rd place).

Group Category (2 Minutes to Fame): Annie Sneha Surin & Group – Liluah Unit (1st place), Chandmari Unit (2nd place), and DB Tech Boys (3rd place).

The celebration stood as a true testament to faith, friendship, and fellowship. Each participant departed inspired by the overarching call: Belong to God, Believe in Yourself, Serve Others, and Build the Future—Together We Shine for Christ.

Sonada, 30 August 2026 - A mobile based match, ‘Mobile Legends: Bang Bang’ (MLBB) was organized by Gorabari Youth Centre (Salesian College, Sonada)  for the young people interested in mobile gaming.  This game is very popular among young people aged between 15 to 25, particularly in South Asia, Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore.

The mobile based match brought together 13 teams, from neighbouring villages,  each team consisting of five members. Thus, a total of 65 players participated in the competition. Apart from the participants, guests and spectators were also present, bringing the total attendance to nearly 100 young people. A registration fee of around ₹100 per team was collected from the participating teams.

The programme began with a short inauguration ceremony in which Fr. Johny Nedungatt, SDB, Rector of Salesian College, Sonada, addressed the participants. In his message, he emphasized the importance of teamwork and encouraged the players to work and participate together as a team. His message reminded the young participants that the event was not only about winning but also about cooperation and learning to accept ‘losing and failures’ in life. 

The competition was conducted using knockout system, with the participating teams competing against one another in a series of matches. The matches were actively followed by the players, guests and spectators present at the venue. There was a lively and enthusiastic atmosphere throughout the competition as the teams competed for a place in the final. After several rounds of matches, Fusion Prime from Dilaram Youth Centre came out as the victorious team.

At the end of the competition, the winners and runners-up were honoured in the presence of the participants, spectators and Salesians. The winning team was awarded trophy, medals and certificates, while the runners-up received certificates in recognition of their achievement.

After the competition, the captains of both finalist teams were interviewed about their experience. The captain of the runners-up opined, “The matches were fair and enjoyable; although our team lost the final, we had  fun playing throughout the competition.” The winners’ captain appreciated saying, “The matches were organized excellently well and we are happy that there are people who share interest in such games.” Their feedback reflected the positive experience of the participants and the friendly spirit prevalent during the entire event.

The programme concluded round 6.00 pm. Overall, the competition was successfully conducted and provided a meaningful opportunity for young people from many villages to come together, participate in a shared interest, develop teamwork, and enjoy a spirit of healthy competition and friendship.

Br. Lamkupar onglang SDB

SILIGURI: Rugby is rapidly becoming a tool for empowerment among tribal girls in North Bengal tea gardens, a transformation highlighted on August 8 when the local Saraswatipur Division won a major inter-state tournament. Hosted by the Jungle Crows team to mark International Indigenous Peoples' Day, the event brought together 15 tribal squads from West Bengal, Jharkhand and Odisha to celebrate sportsmanship and indigenous identity.

The sporting initiative began in 2012 when Khelo Rugby founder Paul Walsh and former Salesian College faculty member Fr Mathew George introduced the game to Saraswatipur children. What started as a way to keep youth engaged while their parents worked in the plantations has grown into a structured program linking sport with education and leadership. The recent tournament drew strong international support, with attendees including Ayers Matthew David from the New Zealand High Commission alongside volunteers from France and England.

For these young athletes, the rugby pitch serves as a practical space to challenge social expectations and build self-reliance. Players say the sport has given them a new voice and the confidence to demonstrate the strength of indigenous youth to the wider world. The athletic achievements on the field were followed by a community cultural program on August 9, reinforcing how the game helps these girls affirm their identity and find recognition far beyond their local circumstances.
- Fr. Mathew George, SDB

Sonada, 20 July 2026 - The Youth Department of Salesian College, Sonada, organized the inauguration of the youth center activities and training for the office bearers on 19th July 2026 in the college campus.  Seventy-five participants from the twenty-five youth centers attended the programme. The event was organized to train the new office bearers, and plan the activities for the upcoming year.

The programme began with registration at 9:00 a.m., followed by the inaugural ceremony at 10:00 a.m.  The inaugural ceremony began with an opening prayer followed by a hymn. The ceremonial lighting of the lamp marked the formal inauguration of the programme.

Fr. Johny Nedungatt, the Rector, then addressed the gathering. In his message, he spoke about the importance of leadership and encouraged the participants to become responsible, committed, and service-oriented leaders. He reminded the youth that true leadership is shown through one's actions, responsibility, and willingness to serve others. The inaugural session concluded with a meaningful prayer dance performed by the youth of the Sonada Youth Centre.

The first session was conducted by Mr. Rashik Chettri, former faculty of the college. Through an interactive and activity-based session, he spoke on topics such as time management, leadership, the importance of developing skills, and the courage needed to take a stand as a leader. He also emphasized overcoming the fear of public speaking and demonstrated practical ways to build confidence. The activities kept the participants actively involved and made the session both informative and engaging.

After lunch the brothers organized action songs and other interesting activities which created a lively atmosphere and helped to keep everyone energized and engaged

The participants were then divided into their respective zones—Dilaram, Sonada, and Barima—for group discussions. During these discussions, they reviewed the activities conducted during the previous year, evaluated their strengths and challenges, and prepared action plans for the coming year. The discussions were active and productive, with participants contributing their ideas and suggestions for improving future Youth Centre programmes.

In the general session that followed a short summary of the proposed plans were presented and the newly elected zonal leaders were also introduced. The new leadership is expected to strengthen communication and coordination among the different Youth Centers.

The programme concluded with a vote of thanks and words of appreciation by Fr. Bernard Mardi, SDB, the Youth Service Coordinator.  The event ended with tea, after which the participants departed for their respective centers with renewed enthusiasm and a shared commitment to the activities planned for the year ahead.

Br. Lamkupar Nonglang SDB

Kolkata, 5 June: Fresh off its centenary celebrations this past February, the Salesian Province of Calcutta has begun an extraordinary visitation to evaluate its mission and chart a course for the next century. The visitation officially opened on June 5, coinciding with the ordination day of St. John Bosco. Fr. Biju Michael, the Regional Superior of the South Asia Region, is leading the province-wide evaluation as the delegate of the Rector Major.

Addressing rectors, parish priests, and confreres during the opening session, Fr. Michael anchored his address around a central, historical question: "Quo Vadis INC?" He challenged the gathering to consider exactly where the province is heading in its next 100 years.

To answer that question, Fr. Michael outlined a four-point scope for the visitation. The process will focus on understanding the current state of the province, evaluating its community life and financial health, connecting directly with young people, and ensuring proper implementation and accompaniment moving forward.

He also laid out the six-year strategic roadmaps for both the global congregation and the South Asia region. Globally, the Salesians will focus on the centrality of Christ, pastoral competence, navigating the challenges of artificial intelligence in education, and supporting the Salesian Pontifical University. Within South Asia, the priorities include renewing fraternal life, prioritizing marginalized youth, establishing joint formation programs with lay collaborators, and accompanying young people through digital environments.

The day's events began with an invocation of the Holy Spirit and a formal welcome from Provincial Rev. Fr. Sunil Kerketta. Fr. Kerketta described the visitation as a much-needed pause to reflect. He urged the confreres to use this time to listen closely to God, to the people working alongside them, and especially to the young.

To provide a foundational framework for the gathering, Fr. Eugene Kujur, Rector of Don Bosco Bharoul Chakraghatty in Nepal, read Articles 126 and 127 from the Salesian constitution. Fr. Michael then tested the room with an interactive Q&A on the history of the province and the South Asia region before moving into his main presentation.

At noon, the gathering celebrated the inaugural Holy Eucharist. During his homily, Fr. Michael reflected on the Gospel call to perfection. He stressed the importance of personal transformation, urging the confreres to focus on "becoming" rather than simply "doing" or "having." He reminded the Salesians that their charism must be more than just an activity and that they must be fully equipped for good works to let their light shine.

Following the Mass, the attendees gathered for a fellowship lunch before Fr. Michael began his afternoon meetings with the Provincial Council members. He begins his First Visitation on 6 June from North Bengal visiting the first house Don Bosco Samthar, Kalimpong.

KOLKATA, 25 April – Following the successful momentum of the national Salesian basketball championships held in Hyderabad, the stage is now set for a historic first in the world of Salesian youth sports. The inaugural All India Inter-Province Football Championship Under-17 (2026) is scheduled to take place on April 28 and 29 at the Don Bosco Vaduthala grounds in Kochi, Kerala.

Representing the Salesian Province of Kolkata (INC) is a formidable squad of young athletes known as the Kolkata Tigers. Drawing inspiration from the strength and spirit of the Royal Bengal Tiger, the team has spent their post-Easter break in a rigorous training camp at Don Bosco Azimganj. Under the tactical guidance and leadership of Fr. Bijoy Ghosh, Fr. Teleshphore Bilung, and Fr. Manoj Hasda, the Tigers have focused on refining their technical skills and fostering the discipline required for national-level competition.

The tournament is designed to bring together the finest young talent from Salesian provinces across India. The Kolkata Tigers are prepared to face a competitive field including teams from Shillong, New Delhi, Chennai, Bangalore, Goa, Hyderabad, Trichy, and Dimapur, all of whom have confirmed their participation in this landmark event.

For the Kolkata Tigers, this championship represents the culmination of intense dedication and significant community support. As the squad departs for the coastal city of Kochi, the provincial leadership expressed deep gratitude toward the benefactors whose contributions made the logistics and preparation for this journey possible. The team carries with them the pride of West Bengal, ready to demonstrate the skill and sportsmanship that the Kolkata Province is known for.

The two-day event in Kochi promises to be a high-energy display of athletic excellence, celebrating the Salesian commitment to youth development through the beautiful game. Results and highlights from the championship will be followed closely by supporters back home as the Tigers take to the pitch in Kerala.