FLASH NEWS:

NEWS

Shillong

Northeast Salesian Youth Leaders Gather at Siloam for Formation and Leadership Training

25 August 2026

News reported by: Michael Makri (INS)

The Northeast Zone Salesian Youth Movement (SYM) Leaders and Animators Formation (LAF) 2026 brought together 81 young representatives from the Salesian Provinces of Dimapur (IND), Guwahati (ING) and Shillong (INS) at Siloam from August 21 to 23. The three-day programme focused on Salesian formation, leadership, spirituality and youth animation.

The participants were accompanied by Youth Ministry Delegates and SYM coordinators from the three provinces. The programme opened on August 21 with a formal welcome and felicitations. Fr Lendakadavil Anthony, Assistant Director of Siloam, introduced the institution, while Fr Anthony Kharkongor spoke on servant leadership.

Fr Kharkongor stressed that leadership begins in everyday life and urged the young people to serve others, listen attentively, take responsibility and lead by example.

The formation programme featured sessions on the identity and mission of SYM, Don Bosco’s relationship with young people, Salesian spirituality, the Preventive System and the role of new media in youth ministry. Sir Vancouver Shullai spoke on “Identity, Vision and Mission of SYM,” Bro Quirinus reflected on “Don Bosco as Father, Teacher and Friend of the Young,” Fr Bivan R. Mukhim addressed “Salesian Youth and New Media Today,” Fr Theotimus explained the Preventive System through reason, religion and loving-kindness, and Fr Ritonbor led a session on Salesian Youth Spirituality.

Fr Cletus urged the participants to become reflective and responsible leaders by thinking critically, accepting constructive criticism and developing self-awareness and acceptance.

The Holy Eucharist, celebrated by Fr Jeevan K. Lakra, Vice Provincial of Shillong, highlighted leadership through service, drawing inspiration from the Blessed Mother's example.

The participants were organised into eight groups and took part in discussions, games, presentations and family gatherings. These activities strengthened teamwork, communication, creativity, leadership skills and fraternity among the young people.

A special spiritual highlight was the prayerful walk through the Bible Valley, introduced by Fr George Palamattathil, Director of Siloam. The experience gave the participants time for prayer, reflection and a deeper encounter with the Word of God.

The formation programme strengthened unity and fraternity among the three Northeast Salesian Provinces, encouraging the young participants to assume greater responsibility in the Church, community and society as committed Salesian leaders.

The organisers expressed gratitude to the Fathers and staff of Siloam for their warm hospitality and generous service. Their accommodation, meals, logistical arrangements and other support contributed significantly to the smooth and successful conduct of the three-day programme.