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Pune, September 28:

Young Salesian Priests Undertake Guided Retreat in Pune

29 September 2026

Animation, Spirituality,

News reported by: BIS Correspondent, Mumbai

Young Salesian priests from the Provinces of Mumbai and Panjim undertook a six-day guided retreat at Don Bosco Youth Centre, Koregaon Park, Pune, from September 20 to 26, following a three-day Quinquennium orientation programme. Designed for priests within their first five years of ordination, the retreat focused on spiritual renewal, personal reflection and deeper fraternal integration.

The retreat marked a first for the region by emphasising personalised Salesian spiritual accompaniment. Groups of four to five priests were accompanied by experienced Salesians from the Mumbai and Konkan regions, each with specialised training in Salesian accompaniment. The team of guides included Fr Ivo Coelho, former General Councillor for Formation; Fr Joaquim D’Souza, former Regional Councillor for East Asia-Oceania; Fr Loddy Pires, former Provincial; and Frs Ian Doulton, Blany Pinto, Simao Fernandes and Wyman Gonsalves.

Through structured sharing, personal reflection, and prayer journaling, the retreatants examined their vocation, community life, consecrated identity, and pastoral ministry. The small-group setting provided a supportive and confidential environment for deeper reflection and mutual accompaniment.

Daily Eucharistic celebrations were central to the retreat. The guides presided over the celebrations and offered reflections linking the Gospel to the realities of Salesian priestly life. Fr Ivo Coelho opened the retreat by reflecting on Jesus’ compassionate gaze in the call of Matthew the tax collector. Fr Loddy Pires focused on the love at the heart of priesthood, while Fr Joaquim D’Souza reflected on the meaning and challenges of consecrated life in the contemporary world.

Fr Simao Fernandes highlighted the transient nature of material realities in contrast with eternal values. Fr Blany Pinto reflected on the importance of allowing God’s timing and patient preparation to shape one’s vocation. Fr Wyman Gonsalves encouraged the young priests to reflect continually on their priestly calling while cultivating Salesian fraternity through active listening and open dialogue.

The retreat concluded on September 26, leaving participants renewed in spiritual commitment and strengthened in their identity as Salesian priests. Its key takeaway was a deeper enthusiasm to continue their ministry among young people, rooted in Don Bosco's charism and spirituality.