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MUMBAI, August 6:

Parish Priests Reflect on Salesian Identity and Pastoral Priorities

10 August 2026

Animation, Parish / Church,

News reported by: Fr Kenneth Pereira SDB

Salesian parish priests of the province of Mumbai gathered at the Provincial House on August 6, the feast of the Transfiguration of the Lord, for a day of reflection, study and planning focused on strengthening Salesian identity and pastoral ministry in parishes.

In his homily, Provincial Fr Ashley Miranda reflected on the Transfiguration and its implications for pastoral ministry. He called on the parish priests to embody the Salesian charism in their daily ministry, especially through their concern for young people and the poor.

Fr Miranda urged the priests to be warm-hearted leaders and accessible shepherds rather than distant administrators. He also encouraged them to put the three pillars of the Preventive System into practice in parish life, thereby making Salesian spirituality more visible and effective in their pastoral service.

The day’s discussions opened with Fr Miranda stressing his concerns to the parish priests and the need for a renewed pastoral approach rooted in the Salesian identity of the parishes.

The gathering then reviewed the Organic Provincial Plan (OPP) for the current six years and the Parish Commission's recommendations on the seven directives for parishes outlined in the plan. The discussion focused on translating these directives into concrete pastoral practices.

The study session then turned to canonical and pastoral matters. Fr Michael Fernandes, an expert in Canon Law, addressed marriages requiring rectification, generating considerable interest and frequent questions from the participants, with the discussion continuing into the post-lunch session. Other matters discussed included Mass stipends and adult baptisms.

The participants then discussed the possibility of preparing a common booklet of parish protocols and proformas, without reference to any particular parish in the province. The proposal, which could initially be made available in digital format, received general support from the gathering.

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