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Hyderabad

South Asian Accompaniment

Curtain rises on South Asia Team Visit

2 March 2023

Media, Rector Major, SPCSA,

- Joseph Vanga sdb (INH)

The South Asia Team Visit with the theme: 'Forward together on the path of General Chapter 28' began at Don Bosco Provincial House, Hyderabad, on March 1, 2023.

Addressing 126 South Asian members, the Rector Major, Father Fernandez Artime Angel, said that the team visit was an instrument of animation by the General Council and an experience of communion in the Congregation. He said, “it is precious that the 12 provincials and councillors of the South Asia region have come to live this communion. It makes us more aware of the Charismatic identity and communion as brothers of the same family. We are here much more to listen and learn than give advice". The Rector Major expressed his conviction of the presence of Don Bosco and Blessed Mother to accompany the assembly on this significant journey.

The significant speakers of the day were Father Joe Mannath, who presented on the theme ‘the status of the religious in the region, Father Biju Michael, the South Asia Regional Councillor, who spoke on the ‘Salesian Region today and looking forward’, Father Ivo Coelho, the General Councillor for Formation and Father Gildasio Santos, the General Councillor for Social Communication presented on the ‘Growth in Charismatic Identity’, based on the inputs of provincial chapters of the region, and Father Robert Pen, the Formation Delegate for South Asia presented a ‘SWOT’ analysis of the region. After each presentation, time was allotted for clarification and comments on the themes presented. Towards the evening, the members went into their particular groups to discuss the challenges and practical applications of living out the Salesian Charism and Charismatic Identity.

The various groups presented their reflections and lines of action before the assembly. The lively interaction emphasized the richness of the Salesian charism and the creative way of approaching the young people.

The activities concluded with the divine office and a good night by Fr. Roshan Miranda, the Provincial of Sri Lanka. He highlighted the challenging times the people of Sri Lanka are passing through due to economic and financial crises.