By Fr Jeswin Mastan for BIS Mumbai

The Quinquennium Meet for young Salesians was held from September 20 to 26, 2025 at Don Bosco Youth Centre (DBYC), Koregaon Park, Pune. A total of 13 participants came together for this formative gathering, which proved to be a deeply enriching and spiritually uplifting experience.

 The theme for the five-day session was "Psycho-Sexual Integration", a vital and timely topic for young religious in their early years of priestly life. The sessions were masterfully animated by Fr Johny Nedungatt, SDB, from the Kolkata Province (INC). Drawing from his vast pastoral experience and personal spiritual journey, Fr Nedungatt guided the participants in understanding the deeper dimensions of living a psychosexually integrated life as celibate priests. His engaging presentations, personal anecdotes, and interactive discussions created a safe and enriching environment for honest reflection and growth.

 Throughout the sessions, Fr Nedungatt emphasized the importance of self-awareness, inner freedom, and emotional maturity in sustaining a healthy integrated celibate life.

 A special highlight of the week was the celebration of the Golden Jubilee of Religious Profession and the Ruby Jubilee of Priestly Ordination of Fr Nedungatt. During the Jubilee Mass, Fr Nedungatt, in his heartfelt homily, thanked God for His faithfulness over the years and encouraged the young confreres to live committed lives as men of integrity. He spoke movingly of the power of God’s miracles working through a life of humble service, urging the participants to remain rooted in their call and faithful to the mission entrusted to them.

 On the final day of the Quinquennium Meet, Fr Robert Pen SDB, Vice Provincial of the Mumbai Province, guided the Confreres in reflecting on the theme “Conversation in the Spirit.” He invited them into moments of silent reflection, followed by sharing our learnings, the challenges they encountered, and the resolutions they wished to take forward. Fr Pen, also accompanied the Quinquennium participants during the days of the meet, offering his support and encouragement.

 Fr. Savio Silveira, the former Provincial, of the Mumbai Province, also addressed the Quinquennium participants with much depth and inspiration. He highlighted that the Quinquennium phase is, in fact, this foundation stage, because it is during these years that we build the convictions that will sustain us for the rest of our lives as Salesians. At the same time, he encouraged the participants to be contributors rather than passive receivers. A Salesian, he reminded us, must take initiative, develop creativity, and actively engage in his mission. For this, a clear vision is essential — a vision that is farsighted, practical, and faith-filled, like that of Don Bosco himself.

 The daily rhythm of Eucharistic celebrations, prayer moments, four input sessions a day, Good Night talks, and fellowship helped create a spiritually rich and fraternal atmosphere.

 During the sharing, many participants expressed that this Quinquennium Meet helped them become more aware of both their personal and professional lifestyle as consecrated Salesian priests and brothers. It was truly an experience of grace, one that deepened their commitment to live the Salesian vocation with greater maturity, authenticity and joy.