The two-day gathering began with the hoisting of the flags of the Shillong Province and the Salesian Cooperators. Hon’ble Mr. Gabriel Wahlang, MLA of Nongstoiñ Constituency, presided over the inaugural ceremony. In his address, he commended the Cooperators for their commitment to social and moral upliftment, stressing the importance of youth engagement and cooperative spirituality in shaping communities rooted in faith and service.

A series of thought-provoking sessions followed, featuring reflections from distinguished speakers. Fr. James Thyrniang, SDB, Director of BIDS, spoke on “Poverty Eradication and the Role of the Salesian Cooperator,” urging participants to champion social justice and human dignity through concrete action. Sr. Lugina Duia, FMA, South Asian Delegate for the Salesian Cooperators, addressed “The Challenges of Daily Life of the Salesian Cooperator,” offering guidance on perseverance and faithfulness in the face of daily struggles.

The first day concluded with an inspiring Good Night Talk by Fr. Joseph Anikuzhikattil, SDB, Provincial Delegate for the Salesian Family, who emphasized unity, perseverance, and the need to keep alive Don Bosco’s spirit among Cooperators from across the province, including those from Tripura.

The spiritual heart of the Congress was the solemn Holy Mass, presided over by Fr. John Zosiama, SDB, Provincial of Shillong. During the celebration, 21 aspirants from the Nongstoiñ Centre made their promise of commitment as Salesian Cooperators, marking a milestone for the local community. Distinguished guests included Sr. Carmelina Sun, FMA, Sr. Cristina Kharkongor, FMA, and delegates from various FMA and SDB centres. The Mass also saw the release of the new Handbook of the Association of Salesian Cooperators, unveiled by the Provincial.

The Congress concluded with the election of the new Provincial Council. Mrs. Ireland Doonai was elected as the Provincial Coordinator, along with her team, succeeding Mr. Anthony Laloo and his council for the 2026–2029 term. The event ended on a note of gratitude and renewed commitment to living the Salesian mission in today’s world.