By Br Angelus Sangma SDB & Fr Jayaseelan SDB for BIS Mumbai

 On August 16, 2025, Fr Silvio Roggia, SDB, General Councillor for Formation, visited the two formation communities of Nashik, Maharashtra: Divyadaan, Salesian Institute of Philosophy, and STI Novitiate. He was warmly welcomed with creative and symbolic gestures, reflecting the communities’ deep joy at his presence among them.

 The two-day visit at Divyadaan began with the solemn Eucharistic celebration at 11.15 a.m., presided over by Fr Roggia, marking the 210th birth anniversary of St John Bosco. In his homily, he invited the young Salesians and their formators to reflect deeply on their commitment to the Salesian life. Drawing inspiration from the Old Testament covenant, he encouraged them to live their vocation faithfully in the spirit of Don Bosco. In the afternoon, he met the formation staff followed by the students pursuing their Licentiate in Philosophy. The first day concluded with his Goodnight talk after Compline, which inspired everyone to move from fear to trust.

 On August 17, the second day of his visit, Fr Roggia presided over the morning Eucharist in Don Bosco parish, Nashik. The celebration was attended by many religious from neighbouring religious communities and a number of parishioners. In his homily, he spoke on the fire brought by Jesus that purifies and cleanses, inspiring a deeper reverence for God and His Word. During the day at Divyadaan, he held interactive sessions with the first, second, and third-year philosophy (BPh) students. His primary intention was to listen to their experiences of formation in the post-novitiate community. The central theme of discussion was: "What do you see?", "What are your experiences in this setting?" It was a reflection on how they live and perceive their formation journey. He encouraged them to trust in the Lord and remain faithful to the Salesian charism. Later in the evening, he met with the staff once again, offering them a synthesis of his impressions and providing an orientation on the accompaniment of young Salesians in formation.

The day concluded with a traditional family circle, where the students expressed their joy through lively dances, melodious singing, and harmonious instrumental performances. Introducing the guest of honour, Fr Robert Pen, Rector of Divyadaan, described Fr Roggia as a man of rich missionary experience, intellectual depth with a simple lifestyle. He highlighted Fr Roggia’s years of service in Italy, West Africa, and his responsibility in the Dicastery for Formation. In his sharing, Fr Roggia recounted his vocational story, recalling how a small mistake by his superiors in his early formation became a moment of grace, leading him to his present mission. Finally, he encouraged the young Salesians to go forward with confidence in their religious life, always trusting in God’s grace.

 On August 18, Fr Roggia was warmly received at STI Novitiate, Nashik. The day began with the Holy Eucharist, followed by a meeting with the formation team and the novices. The novices, in turn, expressed their gratitude through a family circle with music, band, and dance. Fr Roggia stressed the importance of growing in mutual trust between formators and formees. After lunch, Fr Roggia concluded his visit and departed from Nashik. His presence was a true blessing, reminding the Salesians of Nashik of the living bond they share with the Congregation and the Church.