The programme began in the school auditorium with a welcome speech by one of the students, who warmly greeted the distinguished guest and highlighted his inspiring life of service as a priest, educator, theologian, and global leader devoted to young people, especially the poor and vulnerable. This was followed by a melodious welcome song by the school choir, creating a prayerful and uplifting atmosphere.
A solemn felicitation ceremony was then conducted to honour the Rector Major and other dignitaries. Fr. Fabio Attard was felicitated with a shawl, bouquet, and memento as symbols of gratitude and respect by Sr. Leelamma Palliparambil. The Regional Councillor for South Asia, Fr. Biju Michael, was felicitated by Sr. Clara Saminathan, Superior of the Vasant Vihar community. Fr. John Davis Maniparamben, the Provincial of the Salesians of Don Bosco, New Delhi, was felicitated by Sr. Asha Kerketta, Superior of Auxilium Snehalaya. Sr. Leelamma Palliparambil, Provincial of the Salesian Sisters (FMA), Kolkata, was felicitated by Sr. Teresa, Superior of Auxilium, Najafgarh. The Secretary to the Rector Major, Fr. Vijay Bhaskar Thatthi Reddy, was felicitated by Sr. Minimol Thomas, Principal of Holy Child Auxilium School, Vasant Vihar. The Provincial Councillors from Kolkata and the Salesians were felicitated by the school coordinators, Ms. Ribu Shaji and Ms. Julie.
The cultural programme commenced with a reverent prayer dance expressing devotion through graceful movement. This was followed by a meaningful skit on the Strenna theme titled “Do Whatever He Tells You,” reflecting the Gospel values of faith, obedience, and complete trust in God’s will, inspiring the audience to translate belief into action in daily life.
The junior school students then presented a delightful “Dance on Creation,” celebrating the beauty and harmony of God’s creation and reminding everyone of their responsibility to protect and preserve nature. The performance was warmly applauded by the gathering.
The highlight of the programme was the address by the Rector Major, who shared inspiring and enlightening words with the students and teachers. He appreciated and congratulated the students for their excellent performances and encouraged the young people to grow in faith, live with purpose and responsibility, and uphold Salesian values in their daily lives. His message strengthened the spirit of the Salesian Family and renewed their commitment to the mission of St. Don Bosco.
The programme concluded with heartfelt words of gratitude extended to the Rector Major for his gracious presence and guidance. The visit was a true blessing for the institution and reaffirmed its commitment to walk faithfully in the path laid down by St. Don Bosco.
Fr. Fabio Attard also held a special interaction with the teachers, which proved to be a spiritually enriching and memorable experience for the entire school community. Various groups of the Salesian Family—Cooperators, ADMA members, and Past Pupils—also had the joy of encountering the Rector Major.
Later, the Rector Major interacted with the sisters. He exhorted the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians to make Christ the centre of their lives, to cherish their consecrated vocation, and to live in deep union with God. He encouraged them not to underestimate the value of community life, reminding them that no human being is perfect and that community must become a welcoming space where vocations can grow. He also met with the Provincial and her Council, along with the Animators of the Delhi Region, offering them valuable insights to strengthen their leadership in the spirit of Don Bosco.
