BIS # 3700 YET ANOTHER MILESTONE AT KARJAT

by Fr. Xavier Devadas 

KARJAT-MAHARASHTRA, OCTOBER 11, 2013: When Don Bosco entered the youth ministry, God had a plan for the youth in need and our blessed Mother led the way. This is so clearly unfolded the miraculous way in which the humble Pinaardi shed experience had grown in to a gigantic youth ministry all over the world, even today. In a simple humble way, God is unfolding his plans for the empowerment of the most vulnerable youth in the remote corner of Karjat. In 2006 it all started in a small bungalow which served as a residence, workshop, classroom, and everything for both the confreres and the boys. Soon due to the solidarity and the support of the province and the generosity of the benefactors like Asha Foundation and Lamprell, a beautiful residential quarter and 3000 sq. feet work shop was set up in 2010.

In a short period of over two years Don Bosco Karjat had an enriching experience of training over 600 BPL and most vulnerable youth of Maharashtra and place 93% of them on suitable Jobs. The challenging DB Tech-MoRD program was successfully implemented. As days past, there was a growing need for more space for both accommodation and training facility. At this juncture the provincial Fr. Michael Fernandes and his council took a bold and generous decision to build an additional new Tech. training shed of 6000sq.ft. This venture was sponsored by Fr. Monolo Boragina sdb and his benefactors in Trent, Italy. Though the incessant rains and difficult local conditions made the pace of the work slow yet the contractors have completed and handed over a beautiful work shed ready to be commissioned.

In the past six years in a special way Fr. Michael Fernandes and his council has been extremely supportive of the Karjat initiative and it was a privilege for the institute to have him and Fr. Ajoy Fernandes, for the blessing and inauguration of the new workshop. The ceremony was simple, yet meaningful.

 Br. Savio Demello welcomed the gathering; Fr. Provincial led the ceremony by lighting the lamp and the prayers. Both Fr. Provincial and Vice provincial unveiled the plaque and Then cut the ribbon and inaugurated the new structure.

In his message Fr. Provincial appreciated the work done at the institute and congratulated the staff and the confreres and told the trainees that now, their future is in their own hands and they should make the best of the opportunity.  Fr. Xavier Devadas thanked God and everyone who contributed towards this venture and in a special way thanked the generosity of Fr. Monolo and his benefactors. He also expressed a deep sense of gratitude to Fr. Michael for his generosity, love and support he has extended all through the six years. Rather than with bouquets the guests were acknowledged by offering a sapling. With this project, karjat is entering in to its second phase of growth and development with enthusiasm and hope.