By BIS Correspondent for BIS Mumbai

Don Bosco Parish, Nashik and the Dominic Savio Sub-centre, Satpur, was blessed with the official visit of the Provincial of the Mumbai Province, Fr Ashley Miranda sdb, who spent two days with the community. He arrived on the morning of September 27, and his presence brought joy and a renewed sense of purpose to the confreres and parishioners alike.

The visit began with the 8.30 a.m. Holy Mass at Dominic Savio, Satpur. In his sermon in Marathi, the Provincial spoke of fulfilling one's duty faithfully, and reminded the faithful that every task, big or small, is best done for the love of the Lord. Work offered in love, he said, becomes prayer, and duty carried out with a joyful heart becomes a path to holiness. His words resonated with the congregation, many of whom recognised in them the spirit of Don Bosco himself, who spent his life serving others with tireless love.

After the Mass, the Provincial met the confreres as a community. He encouraged them to nurture their relationship with God, with one another, and to work together in the mission entrusted to them. He reminded them that a community that prays together and shares life together becomes a living witness of the Gospel, and that the mission flourishes when it is carried forward in unity and mutual support.

The Provincial then met each confrere individually. These personal conversations, held in an atmosphere of fraternal warmth, gave each member the opportunity to share his joys, struggles and hopes, and to receive guidance and encouragement from his Superior.

At 5.30 p.m., the Provincial met all the committees of the Parish. He spoke warmly of their dedication and enthused them in their love for Don Bosco. He urged them to work hand in hand, setting aside differences, for the glory of God and the growth of His Kingdom. The members were visibly inspired.

The day concluded with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist at 6.30 p.m., where the community gathered in thanksgiving for the graces received during the visit.

Truly, the Superior's visit is the visit of Don Bosco amidst us. Just as Don Bosco walked among his boys and confreres, guiding, encouraging and loving them, so too the Provincial's presence reminded us of our common calling and our shared mission. We thank God for this blessed visit and pray that its fruits may endure in our hearts and in our work.