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Salesian Family Day Strengthens Unity and Mission in Dimapur Province
Members of the Salesian Family across the Salesian Province of Dimapur gathered at Don Bosco Provincial House on June 27 for their annual Salesian Family Day, renewing their shared commitment to the mission of St. John Bosco through prayer, formation, and fellowship. The day brought together representatives of the Salesians of Don Bosco (SDB), the Daughters of Mary, Help of Christians (FMA), the Missionary Sisters of Mary, Help of Christians (MSMHC), the Visitation Sisters of Don Bosco (VSDB), the Salesian Cooperators (ASC), and the Past Pupils of Don Bosco.
A key feature of the programme was an animation session by Fr. Shilanand Kerketta, who presented a chapter-by-chapter overview of Pope Leo XIV's latest encyclical, Magnifica Humanitas ("Magnificent Humanity"). He explained the document's central themes, including human dignity, fraternity, solidarity, missionary discipleship, and the Church's responsibility to build a compassionate and hope-filled society. He encouraged participants to translate these values into their apostolic service, especially among young people and the poor.
After a fellowship tea, members of the various Salesian Family groups showcased songs, dances, and cultural performances that reflected the richness, diversity, and joyful spirit of the Salesian charism. The cultural programme fostered greater fraternity and strengthened bonds among the participating groups.
Addressing the gathering, Fr. Joseph Pampackal, SDB, highlighted the visionary leadership of St. John Bosco in establishing a broad movement of religious and lay collaborators dedicated to the education and evangelisation of the young. He noted that Don Bosco realised that no single congregation could meet the needs of millions of young people worldwide. This insight led him to found several groups, including the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians, the Salesian Cooperators, ADMA, and the Past Pupils. At the same time, many other branches later emerged from the apostolic initiatives of his spiritual sons and daughters.
Using an economic analogy, Fr. Pampackal described the Salesian Family as a "multiplier effect," explaining that Don Bosco's vision of fostering multiple vocations has enabled the Church to expand its outreach and transform the lives of countless young people worldwide.
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