By Tr Sheeba Ratheesh for BIS Mumbai

Navi Mumbai, July 8, 2026: Don Bosco Senior Secondary School, Nerul, celebrated the Feast of St. Dominic Savio, the beloved disciple of St John Bosco, with deep faith, reverence, and joyful participation. The celebration brought together students, staff, and the Salesian community in thanksgiving, inspiring everyone to emulate the saint's exemplary life of holiness, purity, and cheerful service.

The day commenced with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist for the Catholic staff and students. The Mass was presided over by Fr Ambrose Pereira, SDB, a Salesian missionary who has served extensively in Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands. In his inspiring homily, Fr Ambrose reflected on the lives of St Dominic Savio, St Maria Goretti, and St Peter To Rot, drawing attention to their unwavering faith, courage, purity, and fidelity to Christ. He encouraged the students to remain steadfast in their Christian values, reminding them that holiness is not reserved for a few but is attainable through faithfulness in everyday life.

The Eucharistic celebration was prayerfully animated with meaningful hymns and active participation by the congregation, creating an atmosphere of gratitude and spiritual renewal.

Simultaneously, a Prayer Service was conducted for the non-Catholic students and staff members. Rooted in the values of inclusivity and mutual respect, the service focused on universal virtues such as love, compassion, honesty, forgiveness, and selfless service. Through prayers, Scripture readings, and reflections, participants were encouraged to cultivate these values in their daily lives.

Addressing the school community, Fr Joyston Machado highlighted the inspiring example of St Dominic Savio, urging students to pursue holiness through their everyday choices. Quoting the saint's well-known motto, "Death, but not sin," he reminded the young people that true success lies not merely in academic excellence but in living lives of integrity, obedience, kindness, and closeness to God.

Students were also inspired by another timeless saying of St Dominic Savio: "I am not capable of doing big things, but I want all that I do, even the smallest thing, to be for the greater glory of God." The reflection encouraged them to recognise that even the smallest acts of goodness, when done with love, become pathways to holiness.

The celebration concluded with a prayer of thanksgiving and the final hymn, leaving the school community spiritually enriched and renewed. The Feast of St Dominic Savio served as a meaningful reminder that young people can become saints by living lives marked by faith, joy, discipline, and service. As Don Bosco envisioned, the celebration reinforced the conviction that holiness is possible for every young person who chooses to love God wholeheartedly and serve others with generosity and compassion.