By Cl. Stephen Johann for BISMumbai

Divyadaan: Salesian Institute of Philosophy, Nashik, had the inauguration of the new Academic Year 2023–24 on 12 June 2023. 

The day began with a solemn Eucharist presided over by Fr Savio Silveira - Provincial of the Salesian Province of Bombay, and was con-celebrated by Fr Leo D’Monte - Vice-Provincial of the Capuchins of the Bonaventure Maharashtra Province, Fr Ashley Miranda - Vice-Provincial of the Salesian Province of Bombay, Fr Gregory D’Almeida - Economer, and all the priests of the neighbouring religious communities. It was truly a moment of fraternal communion and love, united around the table of the Lord. 

In his homily, Fr Silveira spoke of how the new academic year is not just a year to gain some information or knowledge but to grow in wisdom, which is required by the world today, and also to form oneself spiritually so that one grows in favour with God and one another. He encouraged the students to embark on a pursuit of intellectual growth and to form themselves better today so that they would be able to serve the Lord tomorrow by putting on the heart and mind of Christ and being another Christ in the world.

After the Holy Eucharist, the gathering proceeded to the inauguration ceremony. The programme began with a hymn to the Holy Spirit. Fr. Robert Pen, the Rector of the Divyadaan, welcomed the gathering and felicitated the inaugural lecturer, Sr Florapia Brigida Borges. Fr Jacob Palaparambil, the Registrar of the College, presented the annual report of the last academic year to the gathering and highlighted the key events that had taken place in 2022–23. Sr Borges then presented the keynote address on the topic ‘The Lost Smiles: The Way Forward.’ The presentation covered important areas in the field of education. She spoke of the unhappiness that is observed among the students, reiterated the problems faced by the students, and went on to state how one should equip oneself with the right mindset and be filled with the gospel virtues so as to touch the lives of the students. She concluded her presentation by reminding the audience of the importance of basic care and love for children, which are the most vital aspects that are required for educators and, most importantly, for religious.

That evening, Don Bosco Shelter re-opened the Prafulta Counseling Center. The Director, Fr Mavron Fernandes, welcomed the gathering and invited Fr Silveira to cut the ribbon and bless the office. He also shared the importance of this centre.