By Fr Bento D’Souza and Mr Joe Regis for BIS Mumbai

From September 11-13, 2025, a momentous and moving reunion brought together the first batch of novices from Yercaud, Tamil Nadu. Fifty years after their journey began under the guidance of Novice Master Fr Rosario Krishnaraj, a group of 14, comprising 10 Salesian priests and 4 ex-Salesians, gathered at the Salesian Provincial House in Bangalore. They traveled from across India—Goa, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Kerala—and one even from Sri Lanka, to reconnect and reflect on their shared past.

Out of the original 32, 11 of their batchmates have passed away, and others were unable to attend. With three of them, from USA, Canada and India, we had a lively and lovely zoom meeting. For those who came, the three days were an intensely spiritual, emotional, and profoundly human experience. It was a cherished time for fellowship and communion, filled with prayer, laughter, and heartfelt stories. They celebrated their enduring bond and visited two significant Salesian institutions in Bangalore: the recently established futuristic Don Bosco College and the Kristu Jyothi Theologate, the alma mater for most of the group.

The profound impact of the reunion was beautifully captured by one of the attendees, Regis,  who described it as a "time-warp experience." This gathering was more than just a trip down memory lane; it was a chance to mend the threads of time, reconnecting who they were then with who they are now:

"Our reunion has been a journey back in time, where the past wasn't just remembered, but felt. It was a chance to mend the threads of time between who we were and who we are now, weaving our shared history into the present. This collective memory, this anchor to our past, grounds us and strengthens our sense of who we are. Long-term friendships, no matter how much time has passed, prove to be remarkably resilient. Reuniting with old friends is an efficient way to rebuild meaningful connections, a shortcut to the comfort and trust that often takes years to develop with new people. Our reunion nurtured a powerful sense of belonging, enriching our social network and offering a source of support and well-being."

The group spent their time laughing over old inside jokes and sharing stories only they could understand, a true testament to their special bond. This safe space also allowed for moments of vulnerability, where personal struggles and pains were shared freely, reflecting a deep level of trust and collective confidence. The attendees resolved to nurture this renewed connection and plan to meet again next year at "The Retreat" in Yercaud, Tamil Nadu, continuing to sustain the unique and resilient bond they have cherished for half a century.

Even after the group members left Bangalore, the "Signature Tune of Batch Reunion," composed by Fr Bento D'Souza, continued to echo in their minds, hearts and beings.