BIS #2461 TRAINING YOUNG SALESIANS AND BIS CORRESPONDENTS

Evangelo D’ Souza
 
MATUNGA, JULY 20, 2011: The Mumbai Salesian Province Practical Trainees’ Meet was held at Don Bosco Provincial House, Matunga on July 18-19, 2011.

Fr Michael Fernandes, Provincial of the Mumbai Province celebrated the Eucharist on the first day. In his homily, Fr. Fernandes mentioned the importance of signs, saying “signs at various intervals of life should boost us. They help us to go on in life.”
 
Later during the day in the introductory session, Fr. Fernandes communicated important province facts to the young clerics. Referring to the document on protection of minors, he guided the brothers on various measures that could be taken to avoid abuse of minors. The practical trainees appreciated Fr. Provincial mentioning “the province is very grateful for the work you do that may often go unnoticed.”

Fr. Ashley Miranda, Provincial Councillor for Formation reflected with the brothers on their experiences, anxieties and hopes. He focused on the concerns of the province regards the practical trainees and suggested ways to mature in their personal formative growth.
 
Fr. Edwin Colaco, In-charge of Groups and Movements took an interactive session on how to form, lead, guide and animate youth groups. He was ably assisted by resource persons Neville and Alex, President of the Virar Parish Youth Group. Fr. Colaco also demonstrated how to conduct a youth survey.
  
On July 19, 2011 Fr. Ajoy Fernandes, Vice-Provincial of the Mumbai Province shared his experience as a Salesian of Don Bosco. With the coming of the pilgrim Relic of Don Bosco, he invited the brothers to reflect on its deeper meaning.
  
Fr. Savio Silveira and Fr. Glenford Lowe then organised an informative and practical session on the method of writing a BIS article. Fr. Christopher then added his insights on the same. BIS correspondents from various communities also participated in this session. Sephra D’Souza commented “today’s programme was pleasant, fun and memorable.”
The two days training cum animation programme was more than just a break.