Fr. Attard was warmly welcomed by the SPCI community and the staff of the various regional networks with a traditional turban and shawl, expressing Indian hospitality and reverence. At 5:00 p.m., a brief interaction was held in the auditorium with the community and members of the different national networks. The Rector Major was officially received with a bouquet of flowers and the ceremonial cutting of a welcome cake.
In his address, the Rector Major emphasised the urgent and prophetic importance of technical education and skilling for employability, particularly in the context of India and South Asia, where millions of young people aspire to dignified work and a meaningful future. He underlined that Salesian institutions must continue to respond creatively and professionally to this challenge, ensuring that training centres not only impart technical competence but also nurture integrity, discipline, and responsibility.
He spoke at length about the importance of soft skills and character development, emphasising that employability extends beyond technical proficiency. According to him, communication skills, teamwork, leadership, emotional maturity, and ethical values are indispensable elements in forming “good Christians and honest citizens,” in the spirit of St. John Bosco.
Another central theme of his reflection was the vital role of lay collaboration. He acknowledged with gratitude the dedicated service of lay partners in the Salesian mission and stressed that the Congregation’s future depends on a strong, well-formed, and mission-driven partnership between Salesians and lay collaborators. The charism of Don Bosco, he noted, is a gift to the Church and to the world, and it flourishes most effectively when shared in communion.
The interaction concluded with tea, during which the Rector Major informally engaged with staff and community members, encouraging them in their respective responsibilities.
At 7:00 p.m., the Rector Major met with the Department Heads and Coordinators of various networks. The meeting was graced by the presence of Fr. Biju Michael, General Councillor for South Asia, and Fr. Davis Maniparamben, Provincial of New Delhi.
The session began with a historical note on the SPCI Community presented by the Rector of the House, Fr. Joseph Manippadeth, highlighting its evolution as a centre of coordination and animation for the South Asia Region.
Subsequently, various network heads and coordinators presented their reports:
- Fr. Patrick Lepcha outlined the mission and activities of Don Bosco Youth Animation (DBYA) and related initiatives aimed at youth empowerment.
- Fr. John Parankimalil, SPCSA Secretary, presented an overview of the functioning of the Secretariat, including its role in coordinating Don Bosco Schools and higher education institutions across the region.
- Fr. George Mathew shared updates on DB Tech India, focusing on skill development, employability initiatives, and partnerships.
- Fr. Santhanaraj presented the work of Bosconet, particularly its coordination of development projects and fundraising efforts.
- Fr. Joe Prabu spoke about the DB YAR Forum and its engagement with youth at risk.
- Fr. Francis Bosco highlighted the Migrant Ministry, emphasising outreach to displaced and vulnerable populations.
- Fr. Joseph Panippadeth presented an overview of the Salesian Family and the collaborative spirit among its various groups.
After listening attentively to each presentation for over two hours, the Rector Major offered a comprehensive summary and his reflections. He encouraged greater synergy across sectors, professional accountability, and deep spiritual roots within the Preventive System. He commended the Secretariat for its structured coordination and for fostering unity among diverse apostolates.
In his concluding remarks, Fr. Biju Michael underscored the importance of advancing the Region’s “Mission Poverty Eradication” initiative across all sectors. He called upon all networks to collaborate to address systemic poverty and remain faithful to the Salesian preferential option for the poor. The meeting concluded at 9:00 p.m. with evening prayer, followed by a sumptuous dinner shared in a spirit of fraternity and gratitude.
On 11 February 2026, the Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes, the Rector Major celebrated Holy Mass for the SPCI Community. He invoked God’s blessings upon the community and entrusted the mission of the South Asia Region to the maternal care of Mary, Help of Christians. He reminded the confreres that their strength lies in communion, simplicity of life, and zeal for souls.
He commended the significant work undertaken by the SPCSA Secretariat in animating and coordinating the Salesian charism across South Asia. He recognized the dedication of the confreres and lay collaborators who strive to make Don Bosco’s dream a living reality for the young, especially the poor and marginalized.
After breakfast at 7:30 a.m., the Rector Major departed at 8:00 a.m. for the Ashalayam Community, continuing his pastoral visit.
The visit of the Rector Major has left the SPCI Community strengthened in unity, renewed in mission, and inspired to carry forward the Salesian vocation with greater fidelity, professionalism, and pastoral charity.
{gallery}INN – Visita 2026{/gallery}
