By Melton Suares for BIS Mumbai

July 6 2025, Lonavala – The Don Bosco Aspirantate in Lonavala came alive with joy, energy, and faith as it celebrated Dominic Savio Week from 29 June to 6 July. Held under the theme “Anchored in Faith, Soaring with Hope,” the week honoured the youthful sanctity of Saint Dominic Savio, the boy-saint of Don Bosco’s vision.

The celebrations opened with a solemn prayer service, setting the tone for a week immersed in the Salesian spirit. Each day was woven with a different expressions of faith, creativity, and community, echoing the vibrant values Dominic Savio lived by.

On June 30, sports events took centre stage with the Savio Cup, featuring football and volleyball matches that fostered sportsmanship and healthy competition among the aspirants.

The spiritual tone deepened on July 1 with a Rosary service, invoking the intercession of Mary Help of Christians and St Dominic Savio. On July 2, aspirants participated in poster and bookmark-making competitions, creatively expressing the theme of sanctity and hope.

July 3 was marked by quiet reflection during Eucharistic Adoration, providing time for personal prayer before the Blessed Sacrament.

On July 4, the aspirants went on a walk to Tungarli Dam, enjoying nature and building fellowship through shared conversation and moments of contemplation.

Each day also featured brief spiritual reflections titled Sermonettes, delivered by Grade 10 students. These were complemented by the “Be Saints” initiative—small acts of kindness and personal spiritual resolutions shared and encouraged among the students.

The week culminated on July 6, the Feast Day of St Dominic Savio, with a Solemn Eucharistic Celebration. In his homily, Fr Blany Pinto, Rector, drew from the life of St Dominic Savio, encouraging the students to pursue holiness by being cheerful, doing their duties well, and always being ready to help others. The celebrations continued with a Treasure Hunt and Savio Nite, featuring music, drama, and cultural performances, bringing the week to a joyful close.

Dominic Savio Week at Don Bosco Aspirantate served as a reminder that holiness is attainable in youthful, everyday living. Inspired by St John Bosco’s vision, the celebration nurtured faith, friendship, and purpose in the hearts of the young.