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Sri Lanka

Rector Major Fr. Fabio Attard Begins Pastoral Visit to Sri Lanka

16 May 2026

Rector Major, SPCSA, Salesian Society,

News reported by: Fr Sebastin SDB, Sri Lanka

The Rector Major of the Salesians of Don Bosco, Fabio Attard, arrived in Sri Lanka on May 14, marking the beginning of his pastoral visit to the Vice Province and its Salesian communities.

Soon after his arrival, the Rector Major celebrated Holy Mass with the Provincial Council. The Eucharistic celebration was followed by a council meeting during which key matters concerning the mission, pastoral priorities, and community life of the Vice Province were discussed. The day concluded with a fraternal dinner, setting a joyful and welcoming tone for the visit.

On May 15, Fr. Attard met Salesians engaged in the mission across Sri Lanka at the Provincial House. The gathering began with a prayer service and the traditional lighting of the oil lamp, symbolising unity and the light of Christ. Representatives from India also participated in the occasion, highlighting the spirit of Salesian fraternity and communion.

Addressing the confreres, the Rector Major delivered a conference focused on Salesian spirituality and community life. He urged the Salesians to live their vocation with renewed zeal, deeper fraternity, and faithful commitment to the charism of John Bosco. His reflections offered encouragement and guidance for the challenges and opportunities of the contemporary Salesian mission.

An open forum followed, providing the confreres an opportunity to engage directly with the Rector Major through questions and dialogue. The interaction was marked by openness, sincerity, and mutual enrichment. The gathering later culminated in the celebration of the Holy Eucharist presided over by Fr. Attard.

The Rector Major then visited Bosco Sevana, Uswetakeiyawa, where he received a warm welcome from Salesians, staff members, ADMA members, benefactors, past pupils, and the boys of the institution. A lively band procession accompanied the reception ceremony. During his address, Fr. Attard encouraged the community and imparted the blessing of Mary Help of Christians. The programme also included interactions and photo sessions with various groups before he departed for Don Bosco Dankotuwa.

At Don Bosco Dankotuwa, the Rector Major was welcomed with traditional cultural dances and a band reception. He once again invoked the blessing of Mary Help of Christians upon the gathering. A meaningful question-and-answer session with four aspirants became one of the highlights of the visit, as the young men posed thoughtful, profound questions about vocation and Salesian life. Fr. Attard responded with encouragement and insight, appreciating the aspirants for their discipline, confidence, and clarity in expression. Special recognition was also extended to the Salesian fathers and brothers responsible for their formation.