By Jacinta Jones for BIS Mumbai

Lonavla, October 5: Don Bosco, Lonavla, hosted 83 Salesian Cooperators from different units of the Bombay Province from October 2 to 4, 2026 for the ASC Annual Retreat. The three-day spiritual gathering, deeply infused with the spirit and charism of Don Bosco, provided the Cooperators with a meaningful and transformative space for personal reflection, spiritual renewal, and deeper community integration.

The retreat began in a contemplative atmosphere with Fr Blany Pinto guiding the morning meditation, focusing on the Annunciation. The Cooperators were encouraged to reflect deeply on their vocation and on God’s personal call to each one of them. In particular, they were invited to consider how, after years of dedicated service, God continues to call them to say “YES” to Him and to remain faithful to their vocation and mission.

Further sessions focused on the life and journey of Moses, drawing insights from the Books of Exodus, Acts, and Hebrews. These reflections enabled the Cooperators to contemplate God’s providence and His mysterious ways in the lives of His people. The sessions also offered a reassuring reminder that God’s delays are not necessarily denials, encouraging the Cooperators to trust more deeply in His plans and timing.

Fr Jeswin Mastan conducted a series of interactive and engaging sessions on holistic growth. Through these discussions and reflections, the Salesian Cooperators were encouraged to look at their own life journeys, recognize areas of growth, and prayerfully discern the direction of their future missions. The sessions provided an opportunity for personal evaluation while also strengthening their commitment to the Salesian vocation.

A special highlight of the retreat was the unexpected visit of Provincial Fr Ashley Miranda. He expressed his gratitude for the encouraging participation and high attendance at the retreat and urged the Cooperators to continue carrying forward the mission of Don Bosco with renewed enthusiasm and commitment. He also commended the exceptional leadership of Fr Diego Nunes, the Salesian Family Delegate, in guiding and accompanying the group.

The spiritual depth of the retreat was further enriched through the celebration of the Holy Eucharist, Adoration, the Rosary, and various reflective exercises. The Cooperators expressed their sincere gratitude to Fr Blany and Fr Jeswin for their insightful and enriching contributions, and to Fr Vivian for his attentive hospitality and care throughout the gathering.

The retreat concluded on a joyful and spiritually uplifting note with Communal Reconciliation, Confession, Holy Mass, and a shared meal. Thanks to the seamless coordination and dedicated efforts of Fr Diego, Ms Marie and the Council Members, the Salesian Cooperators concluded the retreat spiritually revitalized, strengthened in fellowship, and prepared to reaffirm their commitment to their vocation and mission in the spirit of Don Bosco.