by Royston Colaco for BIS Mumbai

Eighteen young undergraduate aspirants stepped into silence, prayer, and self-discovery on the weekend of December 6 - 7, 2025, as Don Bosco Lonavla hosted a focused discernment retreat led by Br Royston Colaco, the Vocation Animator of the Salesian Province of St Francis Xavier, Bombay. Held fittingly on St Nicholas' Day, the retreat drew together twelve Class-12 students, two aspirants already journeying with the community, and four more who travelled from Alirajpur, Madhya Pradesh—all seeking clarity on whether to take the next step towards the Salesian religious life.

 Day One opened with the group gathering consciously in God’s presence. The tone was steady, solemn, and expectant. The first prayer moment, “God’s Design and Dream for Me”, set their hearts turning inward. Short breaks punctuated the schedule, keeping the rhythm tight and focused. The next session on “Doubt and Distress” touched deeper questions the young men often carry but seldom voice.

 After lunch, an open and honest Question & Answer session allowed the retreatants to articulate their hopes and hesitations. The afternoon moved into Lectio Divina, inviting Scripture to speak personally and quietly. A brief pause led into Forest Meditation, a contemplative walk that softened the mind and steadied the breath. As evening approached, the group returned for “The Kit of the Called”, a clear and practical reflection on what readiness looks like for a Salesian vocation.

 The night brought stillness. Adoration, followed by supper, the Rosary, and personal prayer, closed the day in calm surrender. The participants retired with minds stirred and hearts awake.

 Day Two began with a meditation on “God’s Love through Jesus’ Suffering”, grounding the day in gratitude and purpose. The morning continued with two reflections on “Walking with Don Bosco”, animated by Fr Blany Pinto- Rector at Don Bosco Lonavla, drawing the participants into the Founder’s heart, mission, and pastoral style. Later, an Imaginative Prayer Exercise encouraged deeper personal encounter and clarity.

 After lunch, the final prayer moment—“The Joy of Yes”—brought courage to the forefront. With greater inner freedom, the retreatants sat to write their applications, each letter revealing the quiet movement of grace. A simple tea break marked the gentle end to the retreat.

 Two days. Eighteen young seekers. One question: Is God calling me to walk with Don Bosco?

This retreat helped them listen—quietly, truthfully, bravely.

 Reflecting on his experience, aspirant Joechrist Fernandes said, “I came with doubts, fears, and half-formed dreams. I leave with a steadier heart. I may not know everything yet, but I know I want to keep walking where God leads.”