by Jacinta D'Souza
MUMBAI, JUL 22, 2016: Youth issues took centre gate at the Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Salesian Cooperators - Catholics who are living the gospel message in the spirit of Saint John Bosco, while choosing to live in the world. The AGM was held at the Don Bosco Provincial House, Matunga on July 10.
Father Glenford Lowe, Provincial Councillor and Delegate for Youth Ministry in the province of Mumbai, was the Chief Guest. He asked the Cooperators to take a hard look at their service to the young.
Father Lowe spoke about the situation of the youth today. The young live in the NOW world; and seek to get things done immediately. "They do not have the capacity to wait for things to happen or to receive anything, as was characterised by the previous generation. They are impatient with persons and situations at home, school, religion and society," he said.
With this in mind Father Lowe offered four 'P's' to reach out to the young: Professional, Principled, Passionate and Prophetic. He also briefed those present about the Symbiosis programme, to be organised in December, that would involve school children, youngsters and the Salesian Family.
Father Lowe celebrated the Holy Eucharist for the Cooperators. Father Vivian D'Souza, Provincial Delegate- Salesian Family, Father Wilfred D'Souza, Father Thomas D'Costa together with the 65 members from eight units of the Salesian Cooperators were present at the AGM.
Secretary, Christopher Gomes presented the Report. Sister Catherine Fernandes presented the Report of the FMA Mumbai region. The consolidated Report of the units was presented by Jacinta D'Souza, provincial coordinator. Treasurer, Anthony Estebeiro presented the Statement of Accounts, which were passed by the Assembly.
Father Vivian D'Souza, proposed the programme for the year and commented on the issue of sending applications to the Centre for the 'Promise' to be taken by the Aspirants. The event ended with the Vote of Thanks.