Despite the long intercontinental journey, the Rector Major expressed his joy at finally setting foot on the island, where the confreres and young people had been eagerly awaiting his visit. After arriving at the Provincial House in Dungalpitiya, he took some time to rest during the morning hours in preparation for the first official engagements of the visit.

The programme began in the evening with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist together with the Provincial, Fr Roshan Miranda, and his Council. The Mass, marked by recollection and gratitude, set the spiritual tone for the days ahead. In his homily, the Rector Major invited the confreres to live this Animation Visit as a moment of grace — a time to renew their personal fidelity to Christ and their commitment to Don Bosco’s mission among the young, especially the poorest and most abandoned.

Following the Eucharistic celebration, a meeting of the Provincial Council was held, lasting approximately two and a half hours. The discussion focused on important aspects of the life and mission of the Vice-Province: formation, youth ministry, vocations, financial sustainability, and the challenges facing the Church and society in Sri Lanka today. The Rector Major listened attentively to the realities presented and offered guidance and encouragement, reaffirming the importance of unity, discernment, and courageous fidelity to the Salesian charism.

The day concluded with a solemn dinner shared in an atmosphere of fraternity and joy. It was a simple yet meaningful moment, marking the beginning of a visit that promises to be a time of communion, reflection, and renewed missionary enthusiasm for the Salesians of Sri Lanka.