by Father Joaquim Fernandes
MUMBAI, DEC 8, 2017: Nearly 100 Salesians, alongside provincial councillors and animators of communities, participated in the Provincial Community Day 
of the Salesian Province of Mumbai at the Don Bosco Provincial House on December 4.
Provincial Father Godfrey D'Souza, flanked by Vice Provincial Father Savio Silveira, Provincial Economer Father Manuel Murzello and the provincial councillors presided over the solemn Eucharist at 6.30 pm at the Crypt of the Shrine of Don Bosco's Madonna.
Provincial Father D'Souza gave a brief introduction during the Eucharistic celebration. "It is up to us Salesians to work with one another, with our limitations and our expectations, in creating unity, in understanding what we share in common, in upholding the Gospel values and defining the boundaries to share in the mission of what God calls us to be," Father D'Souza, said.
Father Kenneth Pereira, Councillor for Formation, reflected on community life in his homily. "We belong to the local, provincial and world community of the Salesians and these have its own challenges and opportunities. We need to be praying and committed Salesians. Our coming together is because God has called each one of us and hence in a world which is wounded, divided and scattered, we need to give hope and live the life of Christ," Father Pereira, said.
Unseasonal rainfall, due to the Cyclone Ockhi, prompted a change in the venue for the community meal that was arranged. The weather didn't dampen the spirits of all gathered. Father Crispino D'Souza, Rector of Don Bosco High School, Matunga - the host community instrumental in organising the Province Community Day celebrations - thanked the Provincial and the councillors for their leadership in guiding the Salesian Province of Mumbai. The Provincial then thanked the Salesians for their collaboration in working together, to expand the mission of Don Bosco amongst youngsters.