by BISMumbai Correspondent

The solemn feast of Mary Help of Christians on 24 May, every year, is for the Salesian Family, a festive day to honour and thank Our Blessed Mother, during this month dedicated to her. The days leading up to the feast are days of prayer, rosary and novena to Mother Mary. This year unfortunately, due to the COVID-19 lockdown restrictions, this solemn Novena and Feast is to be celebrated within the confines of our homes.

Apart from the various others streaming the Novena [MumbaiSalesians' YouTube Channel], interested devotees can also participate online with the Rector Major Don Angel Fernandez Artime in 06 languages on the ANS [Agenzia Info Salesiana] YouTube Channel [ANS Novena Playlist] and FaceBook page, made available on the afternoon/evening of the previous day [a day in advance]. The theme of this year's novena is 'The Pandemic We Are Living'. It will conclude on Sunday 24 May, with the live streaming of the Holy Eucharist presided over by the Rector Major in the Basilica of Mary Help of Christians, with an act of abandonment seeking her protection in these difficult moments.

This year, the Holy Father has called for 'LAUDATO SI WEEK' (Video on YouTube) from 16 May - 24 May. Hence, a 'week of study' of the Encyclical ''Laudato si'' for the Salesian Society, is set to begin on Saturday 16 May. This is in response to the call of the Holy Father for the Church to continue seeking ways to apply this Encyclical in society. As the Salesians of Don Boosco seek answers as a Congregation, ANS will publish related news on this 'week of study' on its site and on its social media platforms.

NB: published on specific request to all BIS Coordinators, from Virginia Nitto, Social Media Manager-ANS