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Provincial Urges Practical Trainees to Witness Gospel Through Salesian Life

Panbazar, Guwahati, Assam

Rev Fr Sebastian Kuricheal, Provincial of Guwahati handing a copy of the RATIO to one of the Practical Tranees at the Provincial House, Guwahati during the Practical Trainees' Meet.

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Provincial Urges Practical Trainees to Witness Gospel Through Salesian Life

30 August 2026

Animation, Formation,

News reported by: Mukhim Bivan [ING]

Fr. Sebastian Kuricheal, SDB, Provincial of the Salesian Province of Mary Help of Christians, Guwahati, addressed brothers and clerics undergoing practical training, urging them to deepen their commitment to the Salesian vocation and, through their lives, become credible witnesses of the Gospel and selfless servants of the young and the people entrusted to their care.

The Practical Trainees’ Meet 2026, held on August 29–30, brought together Salesian brothers and clerics undergoing practical training in the Province. The two-day programme then focused on strengthening their understanding of Salesian spirituality, pedagogy and the practical demands of ministry.

The Provincial stressed that the effectiveness of a religious vocation depends not merely on words but, above all, on the witness of one’s life. Recalling the principle that “life speaks louder than words,” he urged the trainees to examine whether their conduct inspires trust and credibility among those they serve.

He also challenged the young confreres to reflect on a fundamental question: “What is my contribution to the community in which I live?” Drawing on St. John Bosco and the Salesian Constitutions, he underlined fidelity to one’s duties and, in turn, commitment to community life and ministry.

The meeting featured sessions on “Practical Training: Living Don Bosco’s Pedagogy in Daily Ministry,” “The RATIO: The Formation Process: Practical Training,” and “Living the Salesian Pedagogy Today: Challenges and Opportunities.” Fr. Chellanthara John, SDB, facilitated the sessions, along with Fr. Bivian Rodrigues Mukhim, SDB, and Fr. V. M. Thomas, SDB.

The programme also included prayer, Lauds, Holy Mass, group discussions, personal sharing and a plenary session. Together, these activities provided opportunities for reflection and mutual learning.

Fr. V. M. Thomas, SDB, former Provincial, urged the participants to become disciples rather than admirers of Jesus. Drawing on his own experience of practical training, he encouraged the brothers and clerics to dedicate themselves wholeheartedly to their responsibilities, work diligently and remain present among the young.