By Marie Rodriques for BIS Mumbai

The annual retreat of the Salesian Cooperators began from August 22 to 25, 2025, at Don Bosco Aspirantate Lonavla. Approximately 80 Cooperators registered from various units of the Bombay Province, demonstrating commendable resolve in overcoming adverse weather and traffic conditions. The participants were graciously welcomed by the Administrator, Fr Vivian D’Souza SDB.  

 On the inaugural day, just before dinner, the members convened in the AV room for a thoughtfully conducted contemplative scriptural rosary led by Shonan from the Wadala (W) unit. Following dinner, the members reconvened in the AV room for an engaging and meticulously prepared Bible quiz conducted by Alvito from the Naigaon unit. It was, indeed, an extraordinary session of biblical learning.  

 The second day commenced on a profound note with a beautifully executed bilingual meditation on the scenes of the Wedding at Cana, led by Sr Vandana FMA, delegate of the Koparkhairane unit. The day’s sessions began with Fr Diego Nunes SDB, the Salfam Delegate, who officially welcomed and expressed gratitude to the participants for dedicating their time to this annual retreat. He briefly shared insights regarding his health before introducing the retreat’s speaker, Fr Jesu Robinson SDB, Rector of Social Ministry at Walvanda. After requesting the participants to observe silence, punctuality, and openness to the divine voice, he commenced his discourse on Matthew chapter 5 - The Beatitudes. The sessions over both days provided an in-depth exploration of the Beatitudes, with insightful discussions and enriching group sessions.

 Gita, the secretary of the Lonavla unit, shared her journey as a Salesian Cooperator, emphasizing that with the encouragement and guidance from both their past and present delegates, Frs Vivian and Blany, alongside the support of Fr Diego Nunes and the council members, she has been able to surmount challenges and progress in furthering the mission of the Salesians within her unit.

 Sr Vandana and other Aspirants and Cooperators from Alirajpur, Yerwada, Wadala East, and West recounted their experiences of collaboration within their respective units, bolstered by the guidance of Fr Nunes and the Province team during their visits. The most poignant testimony was delivered by Jacinta Jones from the Nerul Unit, whose narrative of the challenges she faced on the day of her Promise evoked deep emotion among all present.  

 A prayerful Adoration was led by the youth from the Yerwada unit, who also orchestrated the singing alongside members of the Alirajpur unit during the Eucharistic Celebrations on both days. The day concluded with a beautiful candlelight rosary conducted by the Lonavla unit, followed by an inspiring goodnight address by Sr Iona Barretto, FMA delegate.

 The third day of the retreat commenced with a meditative silent nature walk around the campus lawns, guided by Fr Jesu. This experience heightened our awareness of God’s magnificent gifts, recalling Psalm 121. It was indeed a remarkable experience.  

By the conclusion of the retreat, the Cooperators expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Lord for the opportunity to partake in this enriching experience.  

 Christalina Pinto from Naigaon said, “Those who attended the retreat from our unit had a beautiful and blessed experience. God bless Fr Diego and the Province Council for meticulously orchestrating every detail regarding our stay, speakers, sessions, etc.” Gracy Thomas said, “A beautiful and blessed experience for all.”