By Alphonsa Ohol for BIS Mumbai

On December 13, 2025, the newly appointed Provincial, Fr Ashley Miranda, paid his official visit to the Don Bosco Edu Complex, Yerwada. The visit was marked by warmth, reverence and a strong sense of unity as the school and college organized a short yet meaningful programme in his honour.

The programme commenced with a Guard of Honour, followed by a warm welcome extended to the guest and the dignitaries present. Fr Crispino D'souza introduced the chief guest to the audience as part of the traditional welcome; an Aarti was performed. The Provincial was then honoured with the tying of the traditional feta and the presentation of a shawl, symbolizing respect and esteem. This was followed by the reading of a citation, highlighting the Provincial’s leadership and commitment to the Salesian mission, after which the citation was formally presented to him.

Addressing the gathering, Fr Miranda expressed his joy at being present at the Don Bosco Yerwada campus. He spoke about the importance of continuing Don Bosco’s mission, especially in serving the poor and the marginalized, and encouraged the educators to remain committed to forming young people with values of compassion, service, and responsibility. The programme was further enriched by the school choir, which rendered melodious Christmas carols, creating a festive and prayerful atmosphere. The programme concluded with a Vote of Thanks proposed by Mrs Rina Chandekar, who expressed gratitude to the Provincial and all those who contributed to the successful organization of the programme.

Following this, the Provincial met with the Past Pupils’ Association of Yerwada, where he emphasized the need for greater involvement in past pupils’ activities. He encouraged the members to invite new past pupils, strengthen their association, and extend support to the school whenever required, thereby contributing actively to the Salesian mission.

In the evening, at 6 p.m., Fr Miranda celebrated the Eucharist at Sacred Heart Parish. Later, he met with the Parish Council members and addressed them, urging them to visit the sick, reach out to those who are not actively attending church, promote unity within their areas, and encourage greater participation of parishioners in church activities.

Earlier in the day, at 5 p.m., Fr Provincial was warmly welcomed by the staff of Don Bosco College of Arts and Commerce (Evening). Prof. Pearl Fernandes, the Coordinator, presented the report, followed by a brief address by Dr C. Das, the Principal, who outlined the future plans of the institution. Fr Miranda appreciated the efforts of Fr Crispino the Director, and the faculty for their dedicated service to the working and marginalized youth, and for faithfully carrying forward the vision and mission of Don Bosco.

On Sunday, Fr Provincial also celebrated the 8.30 a.m. Eucharist, during which, in his homily, he reflected on the presence of Jesus in everyday life. He reminded the faithful that Christ can be found in every person, especially in the poor, the suffering, and the marginalized, and called upon the community to live lives rooted in love, compassion, and service.

The Provincial visitation proved to be a source of inspiration and renewal for the Don Bosco Yerwada community, strengthening their commitment to the Salesian charism.