By Fr Nathaneal George for BIS Mumbai

AHILYANAGAR: The Salesians of the Nagar region organised a two-day youth programme combining the annual Symbios youth gathering and Sundays in Valdocco, a province-level initiative, on October 10 and 11, 2026. The joint programme brought together young people from the region for a time of formation, prayer, fellowship and celebration.

The gathering began on Friday, October 9, when several young people from the surrounding villages arrived at the venue. The three parishes of St John Bosco Church, Savedi; St John the Baptist Church, Bhingar; and St Anne’s Church, Ahilyanagar, together serve approximately 27 villages. All together 122 youth participated in the event. The joint initiative aimed to make participation easier for village youth, for whom travelling long distances can be difficult, by facilitating their accommodation and enabling them to take part in both programmes.

The first day was dedicated to Symbios 2026, centred on the theme “From Stress to Peace.” The theme was selected by the core committee of youth in consultation with the youth ministry delegates of the region. Fr Brian Dias, a diocesan priest from the Diocese of Vasai, served as the main resource person. With his engaging presentation and relatable, youth-friendly language, he helped participants understand how indiscipline and personal attitudes can contribute to stress. Through group discussions and sharing within their teams, the young people reflected on the challenges affecting their lives and explored practical ways of preventing and managing stress.

As the day progressed, the participants were invited to Eucharistic Adoration and the Sacrament of Reconciliation. These moments of prayer offered them an opportunity to encounter Jesus as the one who accompanies, consoles and heals. Almost all the participants availed themselves of this opportunity, making prayer and spiritual renewal an important part of the gathering. The day concluded on a joyful note with a campfire featuring humorous skits and action songs.

The second day focused on Sundays in Valdocco began with one hour meditation conducted by Fr Richard Burkhao. Salesian animators from Mumbai Fr Leon Cruz and Fr Velasli Bandya conducted sessions highlighting the connection between Valdocco in Turin, the historical cradle of Don Bosco’s mission, and the gatherings of young people in Salesian settings today. Later, based on the topic, ‘searching meaning in life’, two youth and Fr Vishwas Pereira, shared their life experience, on how from their struggles they found meaning and direction in their life. This was followed by the Holy Eucharist celebrated by Fr Ashley Miranda, the Provincial. He reminded the gathering that young people are a valuable resource to the Church and a reminder of the Salesian mission among the young. The testimonies shared by two young participants underlined the importance of personal accompaniment and discovering one’s purpose in life. The programme culminated in a quiz and a musical performance, bringing the two-day celebration to a lively conclusion. The gathering left the participants with smiles, renewed enthusiasm and cherished memories.

Sundays in Valdocco – Ahilyanagar 2026 demonstrated the fruits of collaboration, dedication and generosity in youth ministry. Organised for the youth and with the active involvement of the youth, the joint initiative successfully brought together formation, spirituality and fellowship, reaffirming the Salesian commitment to accompanying young people as they grow in faith, confidence and purpose.