Don Bosco Gumla offered not merely a ceremonial farewell, but a vibrant testimony to the living charism of Don Bosco in the Chotanagpur region. The gathering brought together Church leaders, Salesians, members of the Salesian Family, civic collaborators, and the entire school community in an atmosphere marked by joy, gratitude, and shared commitment to the future.
The event was graced by the presence of Most Rev. Linus Pingal Ekka, DD, Bishop of Gumla; Fr Biju Michael, Regional Councillor for South Asia; Fr Davis Maniparamben, the Provincial of New Delhi; Fr Joe D’Souza, Founder of ‘The Disciples’ – Secular Institute of Women, Men and Deacons and other dignitaries. Also present were Salesians and members of the Salesian Family from various communities of the Chotanagpur region, along with priests, religious, Catholic faithful, staff, and students of Don Bosco School Gumla.
A Warm and Enthusiastic Welcome
The day opened with a traditional welcome as staff and students received the Rector Major and the distinguished guests with cultural honours and the slogan, “Viva Don Bosco.” In his address, Fr Augustine Toppo, Rector of Don Bosco Gumla, described the visit as a historic and grace-filled occasion, noting that the Rector Major’s presence strengthens unity and renews commitment to serving the young, especially the poor, in the spirit of Don Bosco.
Bishop Linus Pingal Ekka expressed gratitude for the Rector Major’s visit and commended the Salesians for their dedicated service to the Diocese of Gumla, especially in the education of tribal youth.
Foundation Stone: A Sign of Hope and Commitment
A highlight of the visit was the laying of the foundation stone for the new extension of the school building. The ceremony stood as a powerful sign of hope and reaffirmed a long-term commitment to providing quality education to the youth of the region.
Reflecting on the symbolism of laying a foundation stone, the Rector Major reminded students that without a solid foundation, no building can endure. In the same way, he said, each young person is called to lay a strong foundation for his or her own life and future.
He recalled how young John Bosco built his life upon firm foundations despite growing up in poverty. At the age of twenty, Don Bosco made a decisive choice to respond to God’s call, dedicating himself to young people who lacked opportunities and offering them education for a dignified future. Though materially poor, Don Bosco possessed a heart rich in generosity and compassion.
Addressing the students directly, the Rector Major encouraged them:
“You have the opportunity to lay the foundation of your life and your future. You study in a school whose motto is ‘Knowledge and Virtue’—a good mind and a good heart. As you grow, never forget to be kind and generous to the poor, just as Don Bosco was.”
A Celebration of Culture and Identity
The celebration was enriched by vibrant cultural performances presented by the students. Through traditional dances and songs, they showcased the natural beauty of Jharkhand—its lush forests, rolling hills, cascading waterfalls, and scenic valleys—and highlighted the deep bond between tribal communities and nature. The performances expressed both cultural pride and heartfelt joy at welcoming the Rector Major on this significant occasion.
A Milestone for the Future
The Rector Major’s visit to Don Bosco Gumla marked a significant moment in the school’s history. As the institution celebrates 25 years of service in education, the occasion both acknowledged its journey so far and reaffirmed its continued commitment to serving the young, especially those most in need.
