Fr. Attard landed at Birsa Munda Airport, Ranchi, at 5:15 p.m., where he was warmly received by the Salesians amid visible joy and fraternity. Accompanied by confreres and escorted by representatives of the Jharkhand Government, he proceeded to Don Bosco Kokar, marking a historic moment for the institution and the wider Salesian Family of the region.

A Cultural Welcome Rooted in Faith

Upon his arrival on campus, the Rector Major was accorded a vibrant and traditional reception. The pulsating rhythms of Adivasi dance reflected the rich tribal heritage of Jharkhand, offering an indigenous and heartfelt expression of welcome. In keeping with local custom, he was honoured with the ceremonial washing of hands, followed by aarti and tikka — gestures symbolizing reverence, purity, and affectionate hospitality. Students of Don Bosco English Medium School and the ITI rendered a melodious welcome song, while the school band added grandeur to the celebration with an energetic performance that filled the campus with enthusiasm and pride.

In his brief address, the Rector Major encouraged the students and Salesians to remain faithful to the charism of Don Bosco and to continue their mission with dedication and zeal. His words, marked by simplicity and fatherly warmth, resonated deeply with the gathering. A photo session followed, capturing the historic encounter between the Successor of Don Bosco and the young people.

A Call to Renew the Fundamental Option

Later, during his conference with the Salesians of Chottanagpur, the Rector Major posed a profound question that set the tone for reflection: “What is my fundamental option? Is it Jesus or something else?” With clarity and pastoral depth, he reflected on the contemporary challenges of youth ministry and warned against complacency, remarking candidly, “We Salesians are becoming victims of our success.”

He emphasized that authentic Salesian life requires continual renewal: “We are formed, we are moulded, we are shaped in our mission — which calls for formation in the mission.” His reflections strengthened the unity and missionary commitment of the confreres. The day concluded with a fraternal dinner, deepening bonds of communion and shared purpose.

Morning School Assembly at DB Kokar

On the morning of 12 February 2026, the visitation continued with a solemn school assembly at Don Bosco Kokar. The campus echoed with the spirited Don Bosco cheer as students gathered with disciplined enthusiasm to welcome the Successor of Don Bosco. A formal felicitation ceremony followed. The Rector Major was honoured with a bouquet and shawl by the Principal and Rector, Fr. Babu Varghese, SDB, along with the Vice-Principal, Fr. Ujwal Emmanuel Bando, SDB. Other dignitaries present were likewise honoured.

A particularly symbolic moment was the lighting of the ceremonial lamp by the Rector Major, representing the triumph of light over darkness and the enduring Salesian mission to enlighten young minds. The atmosphere deepened through a graceful prayer dance presented by the students, blending faith and culture in a moving invocation of God’s blessings.

“Rooted in Values, Faith, and Responsibility”

In his address to the students and staff, Fr. Attard encouraged the young people to grow as individuals rooted in faith, values, and responsibility, in the spirit of St. John Bosco. He urged them to dedicate themselves seriously to their studies, remain open to God’s guidance, and live with a “commitment to serving others with gratitude in our hearts.”

His words combined intellectual depth with pastoral sensitivity, touching hearts and inspiring renewed zeal. Before departing, he personally acknowledged the students, who responded with heartfelt applause and a resounding Don Bosco cheer.

Following the assembly, the Rector Major proceeded to Don Bosco Gumla to continue his visitation. The two-day visit to Don Bosco Kokar was marked by spiritual depth and renewed missionary enthusiasm, and all felt the presence of the Rector Major as “the shepherd among his flock.”

{gallery}INDIA – Ranchi Kokar 2026{/gallery}