(Salesian College, Siliguri) – Siliguri witnessed history as Salesian Rector Major Rev. Fr. Fabio Attard launched the Kolkata Province Centenary celebrations. From a grand airport welcome to vibrant school and college receptions, his visit marked unity, renewal, and the release of Centennial Reflections book. The celebrations continue across Central Bengal, culminating in Kolkata on 8 February.
He was received at Bagdogra Airport by three senior Salesians including Vice Principal of Sciences Fr. C.M. Paul and five distinguished alumni. His motorcade of seven vehicles, including pilot car and an ambulance, was greeted by the Alumni, Teachers and Salesian Family on 5 February night at Don Bosco School Siliguri.
The alumni felicitated Fr Attard, on his first visit to Siliguri. In his address, he urged them to cherish the values received from the Salesians and to share those gifts with the less fortunate. He blessed a marble memorial destined for the new Alumni House under construction, before joining alumni, teachers, and Salesians for a fellowship dinner.
On 6 February, he was welcomed by faculty and students of Don Bosco School before proceeding to St. Killian Arcade, where Salesian College Rector Fr. Tomy Augustine formally received him. The Salesian College community, Cooperators, and Alumni offered their felicitations.
A highlight of the visit was the release of Centennial Reflections, a commemorative publication from Salesian Publications marking mission centenary national seminar. The Rector Major addressed the gathering, reflecting on youth education and the enduring relevance of Don Bosco’s charism. He encouraged students to believe in themselves to make a difference in the society.
The college event concluded with a vote of thanks by Principal Fr. Babu Joseph and a cordial interaction over coffee.
Later, the Rector Major met with Salesians encouraged them to be passionate about Jesus and also passionate about youth.
In a joint meeting with Salesians and Salesian Family members from North Bengal, Sikkim, Bihar, and Nepal, Fr Attard explained the motto for the year “Do whatever he tells you” Mother Mary’s advice to servants at Cana Wedding. He explained the need to look, listen, choose and act. It was followed by a lunch for about 600 people.
In the afternoon, Fr Attard presided over the solemn Eucharist at Don Bosco Shrine, joined by former Bishop of Jalpaiguri Dr. Clement Tirkey. The MSMHC postulants ushered the concelebrants with a prayer dance.
The Eucharist was followed by a short felicitation program featuring youth cultural performances. Celebrations in North Bengal concluded with high tea.
Fr. Attard and the Provincial Council departed from New Jalpaiguri Railway Station aboard the newly launched Vande Bharat sleeper train to Azimganj, Murshidabad, for the central Bengal celebrations on 7 February.
The three-venue centenary celebrations will culminate on 8 February with a solemn Eucharist and public events at Don Bosco Park Circus, Kolkata.
By: Media@SCSC
Source: Salesian College Blog