By Nv. Jeevan Lobo for BIS Mumbai

On January 30, 2026, Don Bosco Academy was held in honour of St. John Bosco at the Don Bosco Parish Hall, Nashik. The celebration brought together parishioners, Salesians, FMA Sisters, religious, parish youth, and members of the Salesian Family in a joyful and prayerful atmosphere. The Academy was organised by the novices of the Salesian Training Institute as part of the novena celebrations leading up to the feast of St. John Bosco.

The evening began with a brief but meaningful prayer service led by Nv. Bankhrawkupar Savio. The prayer helped the gathering enter into a spirit of reflection and thanksgiving, inviting all present to place the celebration in God’s hands and to recall Don Bosco’s lifelong mission for the young, especially the poor and the abandoned.

Following the prayer service, Fr. Leon Rodrigues SDB, formally welcomed the gathering. In his address, he expressed his happiness at seeing the Salesian Family and the parish community come together as one, united in celebrating the life and charism of St. John Bosco. His words set a warm and welcoming tone for the rest of the programme.

The Academy was inspired by the Rector Major’s Strenna for 2026, “Do whatever He tells you: Believers, free to serve.” This theme guided the spirit of the entire evening, encouraging everyone to live their faith with openness, freedom, and joyful service, in imitation of Don Bosco.

The programme was compered by Novices Jeevan Lobo and Bankhrawkupar Savio, who guided the flow of the Academy with clarity and enthusiasm. The cultural programme that followed was vibrant and engaging. Band performances, songs, dances, choral pieces, and action songs were presented by STI novices, Divyadaan brothers, FMA sisters, catechism children, and representatives from various parish zones. Each performance reflected creativity, joy, and the core values of the Salesian tradition. Interactive question-and-answer segments were conducted during the programme, during which the audience was invited to respond to questions on the life and mission of St. John Bosco and on the history of the parish, making the celebration both engaging and educative.

Adding a special touch to the evening was the Don Bosco Photo Booth, creatively prepared by the Divyadaan Brothers. It provided an opportunity for participants to take photographs and carry home joyful memories of the feast.

The programme concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks proposed by Nv. Albert Marshra, who expressed gratitude to all those who contributed to the success of the Academy. The celebration ended with festive greetings, leaving everyone inspired by the spirit of St. John Bosco and renewed in their commitment to serve the young with love and joy.