by BIS Mumbai Correspondent

Mumbai, 12 July 2025 — The Salesian Province of St Francis Xavier, Bombay (INB), is pleased to announce the appointment of Fr Robert Pen SDB as the new Vice Provincial for the triennium 2025–2028. The nomination was approved by the Rector Major, Fr Fabio Attard SDB, with the consent of the General Council.

This announcement has been received with great joy and admiration across the Salesian family. Fr Robert Pen is widely respected as a man of wisdom, pastoral depth, and dedication to Don Bosco’s mission. His life and ministry reflect a harmonious blend of intellectual brilliance, spiritual maturity, and a heart committed to the service of the young and the Church.

Ordained on 20 December 1998, Fr Robert began his ministry at Divyadaan, Nashik, where he served as Prefect of Studies and Lecturer. In 2001, he pursued doctoral studies in philosophy at the Salesian Pontifical University (UPS), Rome, earning his doctorate in 2004. Upon his return, he continued to serve at Divyadaan until 2020, taking on key roles such as Principal, Rector, and M.Ph. Coordinator, shaping the academic and spiritual formation of generations of young Salesians.

From 2020 to 2022, he served as Vice Rector at the Salesian Novitiate in Nashik, and was reappointed as Rector of Divyadaan in 2022, a position he continues to hold. His leadership has been marked by clarity of vision, a deep sense of responsibility, and a commitment to fostering community life.

Fr Robert’s contributions extend beyond the confines of the institute. He served as Chancellor of the Diocese of Nashik, where his administrative competence and pastoral presence were deeply appreciated. As Delegate for Social Communication, he promoted the creative and responsible use of media for evangelization and youth outreach, helping shape the province’s digital and print communications with professionalism and spiritual depth.

At the provincial and regional levels, Fr Robert has played a vital role. He has been a member of the Provincial Council since 2023 and served as the South Asia Coordinator for Formation from 2022 to 2024. His guidance has been especially valued by young Salesians in their initial years of formation, many of whom regard him as a model of clarity, compassion, and religious discipline.

Above all, Fr Robert is cherished as an affectionate and generous priest—a man who listens, encourages, and walks with people in their struggles and joys. His approachable nature and ability to animate community life make him an ideal leader for this new responsibility.

The Provincial, Fr Savio Silveira SDB, and Provincial Designate, Fr Ashley Miranda SDB, extended their heartfelt congratulations and prayers for Fr Robert as he takes on this vital role in the service of Don Bosco’s mission.

Congratulations, dear Fr Robert! May your leadership be guided by the Holy Spirit and continue to reflect the joy and vision of Don Bosco.