by Ashwin Fernandes for BIS Mumbai

“When two or three are gathered in my name, I am with them“[Mt. 18:20] was the invitational Gospel verse, that brought together around 150 members of the Salesian Family of the Province of Bombay in the Crypt of The Shrine of Don Bosco’s Madonna Matunga, for their Annual Salesian Family Lenten Recollection on 07 March 2020. The Lenten Mission was preached by Mumbai Salesians' Vice-Provincial Father Ashley Miranda, who said, "Jesus had to sacrifice his life, even though he was the son of God," illustrating it with the help of day-to-day life incidents. This will definitely be instrumental in making the Lenten Season 2020 more meaningful to all who attended.

This was followed by a Praise and Worship Session, led by Bro. Bryce and helped in the Reconciliation Service. A Eucharistic celebration to commemorate the deceased members of the Salesian Family not only an act of suffrage, but also as an act of thanksgiving to God for the gift of these people who responded to the Lord and committed their lives to the service of the Gospel and for the salvation of the young, following the way marked out by Saint John Bosco, was presided over by Mumbai Salesians' Province Secretary Father Vinod Mascarenhas. Father Diego Nunes-SalFam Provincial Delegate and Father Anthony Goyal-Spiritual Director of ADMA Mumbai concelebrated. During the Mass, prayers were specially offered for those who were affected by the Corona virus, to stop the spread of the deadly virus around the world, remembering those who have succumbed to the pandemic and also the youth attempting the SSC and HSC board exams.

All members left the venue, more enriched with a change of heart: that they may grow in love of God and neighbour and during the Lent 2020; fast from self-indulgence and from indifference to the poor, suffering and those in need.