By Elenka Rebello for BIS Mumbai

The First Friday Eucharistic celebration held on July 3 at Don Bosco College (DBC), Kurla, brought together nearly 300 students, faculty members, and the Salesian community to mark the Feast of Saint Thomas the Apostle.

Fr Ambrose Pereira, Rector of Don Bosco Technical School, Garamut, Papua New Guinea, presided over the Eucharist along with the Salesian priests. The celebration focused on proclaiming the Word of God and becoming authentic witnesses of Christ through daily life.

Reflecting on the life of Saint Thomas, who brought the Gospel to India, the congregation was invited to consider its own mission of living and sharing the faith with conviction and commitment. In his homily, Fr Pereira spoke about the importance of missionary work and the role of faith in transforming lives. He highlighted the dedication of missionaries who serve communities in challenging circumstances, bringing hope, education, and opportunities to young people.

Encouraging students to draw inspiration from Saint Thomas, Fr Pereira stressed that discipleship is expressed through compassion, service, integrity, and concern for others. He urged them to become witnesses of hope in their families, educational institutions, workplaces, and communities.

Following the Eucharistic celebration, Fr Pereira interacted with the students and shared insights into the mission and educational work of Don Bosco Technical School in Garamut. Through a presentation and video, he introduced the students to the school's academic programmes, vocational training initiatives, and the experiences of young people pursuing education and skill development in Papua New Guinea.

The session highlighted the impact of Salesian education in empowering young people through practical training, character formation, and personal development. Students gained a deeper understanding of the global Salesian mission and the common values that unite young people across cultures and countries.

The liturgy was animated by students of the Bachelor of Mass Media programme, while the Don Bosco College Choir led the congregation in song. Their participation contributed to a prayerful and reflective atmosphere throughout the celebration.

The programme concluded with a renewed appreciation of the Church's missionary mission and the call to share Christ's message through everyday actions. Inspired by the example of Saint Thomas and the experiences shared by Fr Pereira, the participants were encouraged to become missionaries of hope and service in society.