By Bento Dsouza for BIS Mumbai

In a vibrant witness to care for creation, the Salesian Youth Movement (SYM) Ahmednagar organized a Tree Plantation Drive on August 24, 2025 at Mathni village, Ahmednagar.  Over 85 young people from three parishes – St. Anne’s, St. John’s Bhingar, and St. John Bosco Parish Savedi—participated in this initiative. Together, the youth planted more than 200 saplings of Mango, Amla, and Tamarind, sowing seeds of hope and sustainability. The program was graced by Fr Stanny Ferreira, the pioneering missionary from Chhota Udepur, who inspired the youth to take up such eco-initiatives and remain committed to “caring for our common home.” A special word of gratitude was expressed to Mr Chatru Pardeshi, who generously donated the land for this plantation, making this initiative possible.

In his encyclical Laudato Si’, Pope Francis reminds us, “Young people demand change. They wonder how anyone can claim to be building a better future without thinking of the environmental crisis and the sufferings of the excluded.” (LS 13). This tree plantation drive was precisely such a response—youth leading the way in building a greener tomorrow. The event was coordinated by Bosco Gramin Vikas Kendra (BGVK), which has been actively contributing to social and environmental causes in the region. Frs McEnroe, Richard Burkhao (Youth Coordinator, Nagar), Mavron, Vishwas, Nathaniel and George were present and encouraged the youth in their mission. At the conclusion of the program, Fr George (BGVK) delivered the vote of thanks, specially acknowledging the efforts of the youth, the guidance of the priests, and the generosity of Mr Pardeshi.

Don Bosco’s Constitutions urge Salesians to “educate the young to take their place in society with a sense of responsibility and a spirit of service” (Const. 31). This plantation drive embodied that vision—youth not only learning responsibility but also acting as stewards of God’s creation. Speaking to the youth, Fr Burkhao, the Youth Coordinator said, “This initiative is not just about planting trees; it is about planting values of care, responsibility, and faith. Every sapling is a symbol of our love for creation and our hope for future generations.”

As the young Salesians of Ahmednagar return to their parishes, their hands may be stained with soil, but their hearts carry a deeper conviction—that together, they can be builders of a greener, more sustainable, and more fraternal world.