BIS #5173 DRAWING CLOSE TO MARY

by Samuel John

VADODARA, JULY 31, 2017: Don Bosco Vadodara, like many Salesian institutions is in the midst of celebrating a Marian month, which began on July 17 and is slated to end on August 15.

Father Tony Pinto, Rector of Don Bosco Vadodara inaugurated the special month dedicated to our by lighting a lamp, and garlanding the statue of Mary at Don Bosco Church. Events for the month have been organised by and for the youth of the parish, with the support of Father Jerome John, the youth chaplain, and youth animators.

A host of events have followed since the inauguration. They include a multilingual Rosary, with the rosary being recited in english, gujarati, tamil, malayalam and konkani. Furthermore events such as the lightening tournaments, Rosary of light, walk to the pilgrimage, Marian quiz, Marian singing, drawing, rangoli competitions and The Marian Nite' are slated to follow.

Addressing the gathering, Father Pinto appreciated the initiative of the youth in reviving the Salesian tradition of the Marian month. "After successfully organising the football and throwball tournaments, the enthusiasm with which the youngsters have got together for this spiritual initiative, indicates that the youngsters are moving ahead on the right track," he said.

He urged youth to entrust themselves and their activities to Mother Mary, saying, "All who are here, are not by chance but are drawn by Mary. So, let Mary lead the way."
 
Albert Thomas, the president of the youth group, said, "This initiative encourages youngsters to come together to play and pray, to organise events and to take up responsibilities, helping them to also be socially connected and active."

Daniel Robin, a youth member added, "The Marian month has brought in fellowship among us and also with priests." The parish, and youth in particular, now await the fun-filled final event of the month -The Marian Nite, which concludes the Marian month on August 15.