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Tura, West Garo Hills, Meghalaya

Salesian Symposium Proceedings Released, Documenting 150 Years of Missionary Legacy

3 August 2026

News reported by: Mukhim Bivan [ING]

The proceedings of the Salesian Symposium on the 150th Anniversary of the First Salesian Missionary Expedition were released on August 1 during the Regional Meeting of the Garo Hills and Rabha Hasong Regions. The release marked another milestone in the Province's year-long missionary celebrations.

The publication, Pioneers, Pathways and New Frontiers: Salesian Charism Today, was released by Fr Sebastian Kuricheal SDB, Provincial, in the presence of Fr Bivan Rodriques Mukhim SDB, Vice Provincial; Fr Jayaprakash Anthonimuttu SDB, Economer; and former Provincials Fr Januarius S. Sangma SDB and Fr Joseph Almeida SDB. Salesian confreres serving in the Garo Hills and Rabha Hasong Regions attended the ceremony.

The 302-page volume brings together the keynote addresses, scholarly papers, panel discussions, reflections, and final statement of the two-day Missionary Symposium held in May 2026 under the theme, "Give Thanks, Rethink, and Relaunch." It marked 150 years since St John Bosco commissioned the first Salesian missionary expedition in 1875 and explored the continuing relevance of the Salesian missionary charism in contemporary contexts.

Published by Don Bosco Communications, Guwahati, the book has been edited by Fr Joy Kachappilly SDB, Fr Bivan R. Mukhim SDB, and Fr Charles Deepen Lakra SDB. It examines the evolution of Salesian apostolates across Northeast India and offers perspectives on emerging missionary challenges and opportunities. The editors describe the volume as both a historical record and a resource for future missionary reflection.

Addressing the gathering, Fr Kuricheal said the publication was more than a compilation of symposium papers. He described it as a roadmap for reflection and action that calls the Salesian Family to renew its commitment to Don Bosco's vision through creativity, fidelity, and dedicated service to young people, especially those who are poor and marginalised.

The publication is expected to serve as a valuable reference for Salesians, members of the Salesian Family, educators, researchers, and others engaged in youth ministry and education. It will preserve the deliberations of the landmark symposium while inspiring fresh missionary initiatives for the future.