By Fr Selvin D’Mello for BIS Mumbai

Don Bosco Chhotaudepur marked a historic milestone on January 31, 2026 with the grand culmination of its Golden Jubilee celebrations. The day was celebrated as a threefold event of faith and gratitude: the Feast of St. John Bosco, the Golden Jubilee of the Don Bosco institution at Chhotaudepur, and the Golden Jubilee of the First Religious Profession of Fr George Carlos. It was a deeply meaningful occasion that brought together clergy, religious, collaborators, past pupils, and well-wishers to thank God for fifty years of fruitful service.

 The celebrations commenced at 10:30 a.m. with a solemn Eucharistic celebration presided over by Most Rev. Sebastião Mascarenhas, SFX, Bishop of the Diocese of Baroda. The Holy Eucharist set a prayerful and thanksgiving tone for the day, as the faithful gathered in large numbers to commemorate the journey of the institution and its mission among the people of Rathwa tribe.

 In his homily, Bishop Mascarenhas expressed his deep appreciation to the Salesians of Don Bosco for their tireless dedication and committed service over the past five decades. He highlighted the significant role played by the Salesians in uplifting the Rathwa tribal community, particularly through education and holistic development. The Bishop emphasized that celebrations such as these are not merely moments of remembrance but opportunities to renew missionary zeal, deepen commitment, and recommit oneself to the service of the young and the marginalized.

 Following the Eucharistic celebration, a felicitation program was held to honour those who have contributed significantly to the growth and mission of Don Bosco Chhotaudepur. Veteran missionaries and the jubilarians were felicitated with tokens of appreciation in recognition of their years of selfless service. The Sarpanchs of the villages where we reach out were also honoured, acknowledging their cooperation and support in the outreach activities of the institution.

 A fellowship meal was served to all the guests present, reflecting the Salesian spirit of family and communion. As a gesture of gratitude and remembrance, all priests and religious were presented with a souvenir kit, while all the participants received mementos to commemorate this Golden Jubilee celebration.

 The day concluded with hearts filled with gratitude to God and renewed hope for the future, as Don Bosco Chhotaudepur looks forward to continuing its mission of education, evangelization, and service inspired by the spirit of St. John Bosco.