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Inter-Provincial Junior Priests' Meet
Guwahati
The Junior Priests of the Provinces of Guwahati and Dimapur during the Inter-Provincial Quinquennium in Guwahati.

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Inter-Provincial Junior Priests' Meet

15 October 2024
- Mukhim Bivan [ING]

The Inter-Provincial Junior Priests' Meeting (Quinquennium) of the Guwahati (ING) and Dimapur (IND) Provinces brought together 45 young Salesian priests and brothers from October 10 to 13 at Don Bosco Provincial House, Panbazar, Guwahati. The gathering provided a platform for reflection, sharing, and rejuvenation, focusing on nurturing these young Salesians' missionary zeal.

The meeting commenced on the evening of October 10 with an Opening Prayer led by Fr. Joseph Bara, SDB. Fr. Bivan Rodrigues Mukhim, SDB, Vice Provincial of Guwahati, welcomed the participants, setting the tone for the meeting. Rev. Fr. K.P. Paul, SDB, delivered a keynote address, sharing practical insights on being missionaries and encouraging the young priests to embrace their calling with renewed enthusiasm.

Fr. Deli Kapani, SDB, Vice Provincial of Dimapur, and Fr. Jayaprakash Anthonimuttu, SDB, Economer of Guwahati, officially inaugurated the programme. Junior priests shared their expectations for the Quinquennium 2024, emphasizing the value of such gatherings for their spiritual and pastoral journeys.

The second day began with the Holy Eucharist celebrated by Fr. George Plathottam, SDB, Secretary of the Federation of Asian Bishops' Conferences (FABC). His homily set a spiritual tone for the day's activities. Fr. Plathottam delivered a session on "Communication, Synodality, and Ecclesiology of Pope Francis." He emphasized the importance of communication in the Church's mission and the need to embrace Pope Francis's synodal vision. The second session, "Towards Full Presence: Pastoral Reflection on Social Media," explored the role of social media in ministry, highlighting its potential for evangelization.

Later, Fr. Devasia Vazhayil, SDB, presented a "Charism in Ministry" session, sharing insights on how Salesians can live out their charism in the field. In the afternoon, 18 priests shared their personal stories, reflecting on the challenges and joys of their ministry. In the evening, they concluded with a time of recollection and Eucharistic Adoration, deepening the spiritual connection of the participants.

On October 12, Fr. Sebastian Kuricheal, SDB, Provincial of Guwahati, presided over the Holy Eucharist, inviting the young priests to reflect on their vocation and commitment to the Salesian mission. Fr. Bivan Rodrigues Mukhim, SDB, spoke on the "Salesian Youth Movement," encouraging the priests to create vibrant youth ministries. The second session continued with Fr. Devasia Vazhayil's insights on the Salesian charism in pastoral ministry. Another round of experience-sharing took place in the afternoon, further strengthening the bonds of fraternity among the priests.

The final day, October 13, saw the gathering conclude with prayerful reflections and a renewed commitment to their mission. Fr. Deli Kapani, SDB, celebrated the Holy Eucharist, emphasizing the importance of living out the Salesian identity as shepherds to the youth.

The final session, led by Fr. Devasia Vazhayil, provided practical insights into balancing pastoral duties and personal growth. A concluding round of experience-sharing featured 11 young Salesians reflecting on their mission experiences.

At the concluding session, Fr. Sebastian Kuricheal, the Provincial, addressed the young Salesian priests and brothers, underscoring the necessity of selfless service to the community and the province. He encouraged the participants to commit themselves more deeply to their apostolate, particularly in their efforts to assist and guide the youth.

Fr. Gabriel Ngouning Jacob delivered a vote of thanks, expressing appreciation to all who contributed to the gathering's success. The participants then sang a hymn to Don Bosco, celebrating their shared mission and commitment to the Salesian spirit.

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