Father Biju Michael, quoting article 170 of the Constitution of the Salesians about the Provincial Chapter as a fraternal gathering, said that the Province community is a religious community and a community of faith brought together by the initiative of Jesus. He further said that just as Jesus substituted his natural family with his followers, we do with the Province. Quoting GC 28, Father Biju highlighted the importance of Sequella Christi in which we need to return to Jesus and renounce everything that is not of our interest and mission. He also warned against activism and corporate mentality.

His Grace Most Rev. Victor Lyngdoh DD, the Archbishop of Shillong, said that it is significant that this Chapter is taking place when the universal church is making its synodal journey. The Chapter itself should be an occasion for a genuine experience of synodality- of walking together and listening to each other, wherein the synodal experience of communion and participation will bring about a shared mission, he said.

Sr. Elizabeth George FMA, Provincial of Shillong Province, began her message by saluting the pioneers and early missionaries who worked with unmatched passion, indomitable courage and focused vision. She highlighted the need to look after the youth who can be the architects of change in our era, inviting the Salesians to continue to work with them, believe in them, invest in them and discover the new and innovative ways of perpetuating the spirit and charism of Don Bosco.

Sr. Elizabeth Mao MSMHC, representing the Provincial Sr. Maria Goretti S. Sangma, said that it was an apt theme for discussion as many young people are going astray from the church and families due to a lack of guidance from parents and elders. "You are called to work with them, accompanying and enlightening the young to realize their worth. Give them a lasting sense of fulfilment in their undertakings and gain new strength and hope to actualize their dreams", she said.

The inaugural function ended with launching the Province Mobile application by Father Biju Michael SDB. Father Michael Makri SDB, who developed the App, explained the details and the functioning of the mobile application.