NEWS

Siliguri, August 1, 2026: The parish community of St. Alphonsa Quasi Parish celebrated its patronal feast in Alphonsa parish, 1st August 2026.

The solemn Holy Eucharist was presided over by Bishop Stephen Lepcha of Darjeeling-Sikkim. He was joined by nine priests in concelebration. In his homily, Bishop Lepcha reflected on the life and witness of St. Alphonsa, India’s first woman saint, urging the faithful to embrace compassion and service.

A special highlight of the liturgy was the administration of the Sacrament of Confirmation to 12 young people when Bishop reminded them of their responsibility to live as witnesses of Christ in society.

The celebration also recalled the Salesians’ pastoral presence in Samthar, begun nine years ago in 2017 under the leadership of Fr. Savio Rai, whose missionary efforts continue to inspire the faithful in the hills. Today, the quasi parish under Suruk parish, located 7 km away, has grown to 74 Catholic families and runs a Don Bosco School up to Class 8, serving as a vital centre of faith formation and education.

The occasion further honoured achievements within the community: the first MBBS doctor Miss Jennifer Lepcha (Purulia Medical College & Hospital) from the parish was felicitated with a “Samman Patra.” Bishop Stephen Lepcha was also presented with a “Samman Patra” and a painting in his likeness, as a token of gratitude and esteem from the faithful.

In Nepali language, the term “सम्मानपत्र” (Samman Patra) translates into English as a “Letter of Honor” or “Certificate of Appreciation.”

Following the Eucharistic celebration, parishioners, clergy, and guests shared an Agape Meal prepared by parishioners.
-Fr. CM Paul SDB

KRISHNANAGAR, July 25: The Salesian Family of the Kolkata Province rejoiced as Bro. Uttam Murmu, SDB made his Perpetual Profession on Saturday, 25 July 2026, at Don Bosco Youth Centre, Krishnanagar. The solemn celebration began with the Holy Eucharist at 10:00 a.m., marking a significant milestone in Bro. Uttam's lifelong commitment to God and the mission of St. John Bosco.
The Eucharistic celebration was presided over by the Provincial, Rev. Fr. Sunil Kerketta, SDB, who received the perpetual vows on behalf of the Recor Major (Rev. Fr. Fabio Attard, SBD) of the Salesians of Don Bosco. Among the concelebrants were Rev. Fr. Joseph Pauria, SDB, former Provincial, Fr. C. M. Jose, Parish Priest of Muktinagar, Fr. Ramesh, SDB, Rector of Savio Bhavan, and several other Salesian priests.
The celebration witnessed the presence of 20 priests and around 15 religious sisters, along with Pre- Novices, Salesian brothers, non-teaching staff of English medium and the community of Don Bosco Krishnagar. Bro. Uttam's parents, relatives, friends, and well-wishers travelled from different places to witness this joyful and grace-filled occasion and to accompany him with their prayers.
During the Holy Mass, Bro. Uttam publicly professed the evangelical counsels of poverty, chastity, and obedience, making his permanent commitment according to the Constitutions of the Salesian Society of St. John Bosco. Rev. Fr. Sunil Kerketta in his inspiring homily reflected on the three temptations of Jesus in the desert and encouraged Bro. Uttam to remain faithful to Christ, persevere in his vocation, and joyfully dedicate his life to the service of the Church and the young until the end.
The Holy Eucharist was prayerfully animated by the Hostel Boys' Choir, whose melodious hymns and active participation added beauty and solemnity to the liturgy. Their inspiring singing created a prayerful atmosphere and helped the congregation participate more deeply in the celebration.
Following the Eucharistic celebration, a felicitation programme was held in the community hall. The programme commenced with an introduction by Fr. Nicholas, followed by a warm welcome address by the Rector. The gathering included the cutting of a congratulatory cake and a beautiful congratulatory song presented by the SMI Novices.
The cultural programme featured melodious choir presentations by the Pre-Novices of Savio Bhavan, an inspiring address by Ajoy Augustine Tudu (hostel boy) on behalf of the community, energetic dances by the hostel students, and songs performed by the fathers and brothers, creating an atmosphere of thanksgiving and celebration. A special attraction of the programme was two graceful dance performances by Bro. Uttam Murmu's nieces—one solo dance and one duet dance—which were warmly appreciated by the audience.
One of the highlights of the programme was the release of the book The Eucharistic, written by Fr. M. C. Syriac. The book was formally released by Rev. Fr. Sunil Kerketta, SDB, together with Fr. Ramesh, Rector of Savio Bhavan. The first copies were presented to Rev. Fr. Joseph Pauria, SDB, former Provincial, and to Bro. Uttam Murmu, SDB. Fr. Joseph Pauria reflected on the central place of the Eucharist in Christian life and encouraged everyone to deepen their devotion to the Blessed Sacrament.
Bro. Uttam Murmu expressed heartfelt gratitude to God for the gift of his vocation. He sincerely thanked the Provincial, priests, brothers, sisters, formators, teachers, benefactors, and all who had accompanied him throughout his formation. He also offered special thanks to his parents, relatives, friends, and all those who had prayed for and supported him during his vocational journey.
The programme concluded with words of appreciation and congratulations from the gathered community. Bro. Uttam was felicitated by the Salesian community, priests, religious sisters, family members, relatives, and friends. The joyous celebration ended with a delicious fellowship lunch shared by all, strengthening the spirit of communion and thanksgiving.
The Perpetual Profession of Bro. Uttam Murmu, SDB was truly a memorable celebration of faith, commitment, and hope. It served as an inspiration to all present, reminding them of the beauty of responding generously to God's call. May Mary Help of Christians and St. John Bosco continue to guide and strengthen Bro. Uttam as he faithfully serves the Church and the young throughout his Salesian ministry.
-Cl. Robin Ekka, SDB

KRISHNANAGAR, July 25: A new Santhali book titled The Eucharistic, authored by Fr. M. C. Syriac, was released during the felicitation programme following the Perpetual Profession of Bro. Uttam Murmu at Don Bosco Youth Centre, Krishnanagar. The volume was formally unveiled by Provincial Rev. Fr. Sunil Kerketta, SDB, along with Fr. Ramesh, Rector of Savio Bhavan. The first copies were presented to former Provincial Rev. Fr. Joseph Pauria, SDB, and Bro. Uttam Murmu.

Speaking on the occasion, Fr. Joseph Pauria highlighted the central place of the Eucharist in Christian life and encouraged the faithful to deepen their devotion to the Blessed Sacrament. The release of the Santhali edition marked a significant contribution to Christian literature in an indigenous language, making Eucharistic spirituality more accessible to Santhali-speaking faithful. The launch formed one of the highlights of the day's celebrations, which brought together members of the Salesian family, clergy, religious and lay faithful in a spirit of thanksgiving and fellowship. The source document identifies the book as being released during the programme but does not explicitly state that it is in Santhali; that additional detail comes from your clarification.

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

Sonada, 16 June 2026 -The Academic Year 2026–2027 of the Bachelor of Philosophy (B.Ph.) programme at Salesian College, Sonada, was formally inaugurated on 15 June 2026 in the presence of Rt. Rev. Edward Baretto, D.D., Co-adjutor Bishop of the Darjeeling–Sikkim Diocese. 

The day's programme began at 10:00 a.m. with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist, presided over by Bishop Edward Baretto. The Eucharistic celebration marked a meaningful beginning to the academic year, invoking God's blessings upon the students, faculty, and the entire philosophy community. The Mass concluded at 11:00 a.m, followed by a tea break.

The inaugural function commenced at 11:30 a.m.  Br. Mebandajied Thangkhiew, the Master of Ceremonies, welcomed the gathering and introduced the programme. A hymn to the Holy Spirit, sung by the student brothers set a prayerful tone for the occasion. This was followed by the felicitation of the dignitaries and the ceremonial lighting of the lamp.

Delivering the welcome address, Fr. Johny Nedungatt SDB, the Rector,  expressed his gratitude to Bishop  Baretto for accepting the invitation and highlighted the importance of intellectual formation and philosophical inquiry in today's world. Fr. Dr. C. J. Mathew then presented the annual report of the Department of Philosophy, outlining the department's activities and achievements during the previous academic year.

A choir performance by the student brothers added colour to the programme before the keynote lecture delivered by Br. Abhishek Rai, SDB, on ‘Paulo Freire's Philosophy of Education’. The presentation introduced Freire's life and educational vision, emphasizing the development of freedom, creativity, responsibility, critical awareness, and conscious participation. The lecture also examined Freire's critique of the "Banking Model of Education" and his advocacy of a problem-posing approach that encourages dialogue and critical thinking. Some of the strengths and limitations of his educational philosophy were also discussed.

In his presidential address, Bishop  Baretto underlined the importance of philosophy as the foundation of theological studies and priestly formation. He stressed the need for logical thinking and critical analysis in distinguishing truth from error and encouraged students to pursue holistic formation encompassing the human, spiritual, and intellectual dimensions of life.

The programme concluded with a vote of thanks proposed by Br. Asit Minz, a fourth-year student, who expressed gratitude to all those who contributed to the success of the event. The gathering then proceeded for a fellowship lunch, bringing the inaugural celebration to a joyful close.

The inauguration marked a promising beginning to the new academic year, inspiring students to pursue wisdom, truth, and academic excellence with renewed dedication.

Br. Lamkupar Nonglang SDB