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Salesian Family joins Silver Jubilee celebrations of Tirchy Province
The Salesian Province of Tiruchy celebrated its Silver Jubilee with the Salesian Family on August 4 at the Don Bosco Media Centre, Manikandam, Tiruchy. The event was graced by the presence of Fr. Stefano Martoglio SDB, Vicar of the Rector Major, with Fr. Agilan Sarprasadam SDB, Provincial of Tiruchy Province, and Sr. Majella FMA, Provincial of Tiruchy Province. Fr. Charles Joseph, SDB, Rector of Don Bosco Manikandam, welcomed the gathering.
The celebration was a beautiful manifestation of unity in diversity, bringing together representatives from various branches of the Salesian Family: the 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.
The first part of the celebration featured felicitations, cultural programs, reports, presentations, and an interaction session with the Vicar of the Rector Major. A solemn Holy Eucharist officiated by Fr. Stefano followed.
In his speech, Fr. Stefano 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. He emphasized the significant role of lay participation in the mission, highlighting that lay people manage approximately 135 Salesian houses worldwide. Reflecting on the recent Synod on ‘Synodality - Communion, Participation, and Mission,’ he noted the Church’s openness to lay participation, inspiring all present.
When asked about lay collaborators as leaders, the Vicar stressed that leadership should be for 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 profound gratitude for the blessings and guidance the Province had received over the past twenty-five years and wished the Province continued love, happiness, and prosperity in the years to come. Fr. Patrick SDB, Secretary of the Vicar, translated the speech of the Vicar into Tamil for the people to understand, further emphasizing the Vicar's appreciation for the diverse audience.