by Sudha Pillai for BISMumbai

Three Salesian cooperators units of the Salesian Province of Bombay had their renewal of their promise during the Eucharistic celebration held on 16 August 2021, at 11:30 am, at the crypt of the Shrine of Don Bosco’s Madonna, Matunga. Fr Savio Silveira the Provincial, was the main celebrant for the Eucharistic celebration, concelebrated by Father Diego Nunes, Delegate of the Salesian Family and Father James Nigrel, Rector and Delegate of Wadala West.

The Salesian cooperators from St. Dominic Savio Parish, Wadala East and Our Lady of Dolours Parish, Wadala West and the Don Bosco, Kurla unit participated in the mass. It was a joyful moment to see 35 Salesian family members participating in the renewal programme as the whole world celebrated the 206th birth anniversary of St. John Bosco. Salesian nun Catherine Fernandes FMA Delegate joined in the celebration too.

Fr Silveira during his homily said “ As a Salesian family we need to reaffirm our preference for the young, who are ‘poor, abandoned and in danger’, those who have greater need of love and evangelization. As you commit yourselves to the mission of Don Bosco during these challenging times of Covid 19 pandemic where thousands have lost jobs and livelihoods we need to serve and be compassionate to the growing needs of the poorer families and youth in our neighbourhoods. May you have the heart of the good shepherd and the spirit of Don Bosco as you dedicate your lives to the mission of the young.”

The renewal of the promises lead the Salesian family members to foster their spiritual growth of each of them and to rediscover their vocation and mission for the young.

Jacinta Dsouza, in her vote of thanks specially acknowledged and thanked Fr Silveira for celebrating the Eucharist and his thought provoking homily; and Fr Edwin D’Souza, Shrine Rector for permitting use of the crypt.