By Fr Joyston Machado SDB for BIS Mumbai

Mumbai, September 8, 2025 – The Salesian Province of Mumbai joyfully welcomed Fr Ashley Miranda as its 12th Provincial during a solemn Eucharistic celebration at the Shrine of Don Bosco’s Madonna, Matunga, at 10:30 a.m.

The Holy Mass was presided over by Fr Biju Michael, Regional Councillor for South Asia, in the presence of the Provincials of the South Asia Region. In his homily, Fr Michael reflected on the genealogy of Jesus, highlighting how God chose various persons with unique qualities for special purposes and leadership. Drawing inspiration from this, he invited the faithful to support Fr Ashley Miranda with their prayers as he assumes his new role of service. He also expressed gratitude to Fr Savio Silveira, the outgoing Provincial, for his dedicated leadership and commitment to the Province.

The celebration continued with a felicitation programme in the undercroft of Don Bosco High School. The Don Bosco High School boys’ band lifted hearts with their spirited performance of El Cumbanchero. This was followed by a prayer dance presented by the girls of the Don Bosco Daily Oratory, bringing grace and devotion to the occasion.

A special moment came with the release of the English translation of The Most Beautiful Letters of  Don Bosco, prepared by Fr Ian Doulton and Fr Valerian Pereira, and officially launched by Fr Biju Michael.

In his farewell address, Fr Savio Silveira thanked every Salesian, collaborator, and lay mission partner for their generosity, support, and companionship in mission during his years of service. The brothers from Divyadaan then offered a heartfelt rendition of Que Sera Sera, sung as a song of hope and a song of blessing titled Let this be our Prayer for the new ministry of the Provincial.

Finally, Fr Ashley Miranda addressed the gathering, offering his gratitude to God and to his Salesian confreres. He appreciated the presence of the Salesians and the Salesian family for their presence on this ocassion. He stressed on the words of Fr Michael in his homily: humility and someone less than perfect to carry on a leadership role.

The program concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks by Fr Robert Pen, the Vice Provincial, who expressed gratitude to all who contributed to the success of the program.

The day’s celebration was marked with gratitude, faith, and renewed commitment, as the Province entrusted its new Provincial to God’s guidance and Don Bosco’s intercession.