By Fr Joaquim Fernandes SDB for BIS Mumbai

The Salesian community of Don Bosco, Naigaon, celebrated a significant milestone as Fr Royal D'Abreo, SDB, Rector was formally installed as the new Parish Priest of Mary Help of Christians Church during a solemn Eucharistic celebration presided over by Bishop Thomas D'Souza, Diocese of Vasai on July 11, 2026.  The liturgy brought together parishioners, members of the Salesian Family and well-wishers in thanksgiving for the beginning of a new phase in the parish's pastoral journey.

A native of Giriz, Vasai, Fr Royal D'Abreo has served the Church in a variety of pastoral and educational ministries over the years. He has been Rector of Don Bosco, Nashik, and has exercised his priestly ministry as Parish Priest at Jyoti Mata Church, Virar, and at Don Bosco Parish, Nashik. His appointment to Mary Help of Christians Parish marks another important step in his Salesian ministry of accompanying young people and serving the People of God.

During the Rite of Installation, Bishop Thomas D'Souza formally entrusted Fr Royal with the pastoral care of the parish. In his introductory address, the Bishop reflected on the responsibilities of a parish priest, emphasising that the priestly vocation is rooted in fidelity to Christ, generous service to the Church, and a wholehearted commitment to the mission entrusted by the Lord.

In his homily, Bishop D'Souza reflected on the Gospel parable of the Sower and the Seed. He explained that the seed represents the Word of God, while the different kinds of soil symbolise the condition of the human heart. He invited the faithful to remove the hardness of pride, the shallowness of superficial faith, and the thorns of worldly distractions that prevent God's Word from bearing fruit. Instead, he encouraged everyone to cultivate hearts that are open and receptive so that the Gospel may transform lives and produce an abundant harvest of faith, hope, and charity.

As part of the installation ceremony, Fr Royal publicly signed the Oath of Fidelity and made the Profession of Faith in the presence of the faithful and five fellow Salesian priests. The Letter of Appointment was then read by Fr Anthony Fonseca, SDB, Vice Rector of the Salesian Community, officially confirming his appointment as Parish Priest. Bishop D’Souza handed the keys of the tabernacle entrusting him with the care for the house of God. 

Addressing the congregation after the rite, Fr Royal expressed gratitude for the confidence placed in him by his superiors and the local Church. While acknowledging the responsibilities and challenges that accompany his new ministry, he also spoke with hope about the opportunities that lie ahead. He highlighted the indispensable role of the laity in the Church's mission of evangelisation and emphasised the importance of shared responsibility in building a vibrant parish community.

Fr Royal outlined several pastoral priorities for the years ahead. He expressed his desire to strengthen catechetical formation, promote an active and dynamic youth ministry, encourage greater participation of families and parish organisations, and deepen the spiritual life of the community. He also reaffirmed his commitment to accompanying the parish in the ongoing construction of the new church, describing it as both a physical structure and a visible sign of a community united in faith and mission.

The Eucharistic celebration concluded in an atmosphere of prayer and thanksgiving. The parish choir and organist enriched the liturgy through joyful and reverent singing, helping the assembly celebrate the occasion with solemnity and hope. The presence of parishioners, benefactors, Salesians, and guests reflected the strong bonds of communion that characterise the parish community.

The installation of Fr Royal D'Abreo marks the beginning of a new chapter for Mary Help of Christians Parish. Guided by the Salesian charism of Don Bosco, the parish looks forward to strengthening its mission of evangelisation, youth ministry, catechesis, and community building, continuing to proclaim the Gospel with renewed enthusiasm and to accompany young people and families on their journey of faith.