NEWS
Salesians Unite to Strengthen Mission for the Poor at MPE Strategy Workshop in Guwahati
The Mission Poverty Eradication (MPE) Strategy Workshop II commenced at the Provincial House, Guwahati, bringing together Project Directors from various Salesian provinces across South Asia. The two-day workshop aims to evolve concrete strategies to intensify the congregation’s commitment to serving the poorest communities in the region.
The inaugural session, held at Mario Hall, was marked by inspiring addresses from Fr. Sebastian Kuricheal SDB, Provincial of Guwahati, and Fr. Biju Michael SDB, Regional Councillor for South Asia. Both speakers called for a renewed focus on the Salesian mission’s foundational goal — the upliftment of the poor and marginalized.
Fr. Sebastian Kuricheal set the tone by reminding participants of the historic role of Salesian missionaries in the Northeast. “The Northeast has grown through the service we do… we may be complacent about what we have done and take a back seat. So this intervention came at the right time to bring back the priorities of working for the poor,” he said. He warned against drifting from core objectives and urged a “reawakening in us the need to work for the greater good of the poor in South Asia.” Concluding his address, he affirmed, “We go out renewed to work for the real goal of the Salesians — working for the poor! Never forget the target group that we have in mind. Walk in the footprint of Don Bosco, our father.”
We have lived in the Northeast mainly through education — from rural primary schools to colleges and universities — transforming lives in all aspects.
Echoing his sentiments, Fr. Biju Michael framed the mission within the larger vision of the Church. Calling it an “invitation of God who sent His son Jesus to embrace the cross and die for the poor,” he praised the holistic approach of Salesian service — from acts of charity to transformative development through education. Reflecting on the congregation’s legacy, he said, “We have lived in the Northeast mainly through education — from rural primary schools to colleges and universities — transforming lives in all aspects.”
He emphasized the importance of inclusivity and vision, adding, “The Sustainable Development Goals can be achieved if we can put together vision, strategies, and action plans.”
MPE Director Fr. Tony Pellissery SDB expressed gratitude to the Guwahati Province for its hospitality and commitment in hosting the event. The workshop features multiple strategy sessions and visits to key Salesian institutions, including Assam Don Bosco University, Snehalaya, and Don Bosco Institute, to observe developmental initiatives in action.
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