By Fr Ms Gail Fernandes for BISMumbai

The 20 and 21 November 2022 were red-letter days in the calendar of Don Bosco High School & Junior College, Naigaon, as the General Councillor for the South Asia Region, Fr Biju Michael Pulianmackal, visited the institution and spent two blessed days with the Salesians, parishioners, staff, and students.

Beginning his visit at 4 p.m., Fr Biju Michael first met the House Council members, briefed them, and gave them an animated talk based on the Salesian charism. He then presided over Holy Mass at the Mary Help of Christians church. He met the members of the Parish Council and other associations and gave them a listening ear. He also congratulated them for the good work they were doing in the parish for the poor and for the faith that enabled them to do so. His presence amongst the parishioners was indeed an uplifting one. He also met each Salesian of the community, listened to them patiently and enquired into any concerns they had.

This Extraordinary Visitation in school began at the onset of the next day, by invoking the blessings of the Almighty at Holy Mass. During the cultural programme that followed, the Rector, Fr Dominic Martis, officially introduced and welcomed Fr Biju Michael. The welcome address gave everyone an insight into his varied accomplishments. The ceremonial lighting of the lamp and an elegant prayer dance set the tone for the short programme that followed.

A brief presentation gave the audience a glimpse into the history, achievements, and vision of the institution. The concepts of eco-spirituality, the Salesian charism and other innovative practices used to promote the holistic development of the students were an integral part of the presentation. One of the highlights of the programme was the unveiling of the logo for the first-ever collective exhibition ‘Be Peacemakers’ by the extraordinary visitor. He congratulated and thanked the management, staff and students and wished us the best in this endeavour.

Fr Biju Michael then addressed the gathering and explained how justice and love are prerequisites to peace. In an analogy of a thermometer and thermostat, he urged students to be thermostats (not only thermometers) and always take that extra step to make themselves and the world a better place. In a meeting with the management and staff, he reiterated Don Bosco’s vision of serving the young, especially the poor. He inspired teachers to use caring to give wings to each child so that they could in turn fulfil their own dreams and the dreams of their parents.

He then had a meeting with the staff members and replied to any query very lucidly and frankly. Indeed, Fr Biju Michael’s visit left a feeling of motivation, encouragement, and upliftment among all.