by Clerics Sanket Chauhan & Alfred Menezes with Aegidius Pereira for BISMumbai

Divyadaan-Salesian Institute of Philosophy Nashik, concluded its Marian Month 2020 [16 July-15 August], with the Marian Nite on 13 August. The entire month enriched with many activities animated by the 'liturgy group' helped the spiritual and human development of the community. Sermonettes, serenades, poetry recitals, prayer moments, rosary services, with other special activities, including games and competitions deepened the love and knowledge of Mary. The month-long devotion and active interactions reached its culmination with the celebration of the Solemnity of the Assumption of Mary.

The 74^th Independence Day of India was celebrated in a grand manner. Beginning with a prayer service celebrating the Assumption of Our Lady, the ceremonial 'Flag-hoisting' with the Bosco Brass Band playing the National Anthem was followed with a short programme, including a fiery speech by Alan D'silva on 'Freedom, Responsibility & the Responsible Use of Freedom'. D'silva invited the community to "practice here what we want to see from our future students, youth and parishioners." A skit depiction of the current India-China conflict by the SYBPh proposed how it can be solved using peaceful dialogue. Rector, Father Banzelao Teixeira reflected on the ‘Make in India’ saying, "let us start making peace, tolerance and love in India. The best place to start is the factory of Divyadaan, for we are from all over India and truly represent the unity in diversity, for which the noble Independence warriors laid down their lives.