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Kokrajhar, Assam

A newly-promised Salesian Cooperators during the Provincial Congress of the Salesian Cooperators of the Salesian Province of Guwahati.

Seventeen New Salesian Cooperators Add Joy to Guwahati Province's 150th Anniversary Celebration

27 July 2026

Cooperators,

News reported by: Mukhim Bivan [ING]

The induction of 17 new Salesian Cooperators was the highlight of the Provincial Congress of the Salesian Cooperators of the Salesian Province of Guwahati, adding a special dimension to the celebrations of the 150th Anniversary of the Association of Salesian Cooperators (ASC) held at Auxilium Convent, Kokrajhar, on July 25–26.

Around 100 Salesian Cooperators from the centres of Mazbat, Garobadha, Guwahati, Kokrajhar, Dotma, and Tezpur took part in the two-day congress, guided by the Strenna 2026 theme, "Do Whatever He Tells You" (Jn 2:5).

The congress began with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp and the proclamation of the Word of God, followed by the inaugural address by Sr Tessy Davis FMA, Host Delegate. Representatives from the participating centres presented annual reports highlighting the apostolic initiatives undertaken in their local communities over the past year.

Delivering the keynote address, Fr Sebastian Ishorary SDB, Provincial Councillor and Provincial Delegate for the Salesian Cooperators, reflected on the vocation and mission of Salesian Cooperators. He urged members to trust in Christ, listen attentively to His voice, and become joyful witnesses of the Gospel through lives of humble and dedicated service.

The defining moment of the congress came when 17 new members made their Promise, publicly committing themselves to live the Salesian vocation inspired by St John Bosco while continuing their responsibilities in family, professional and social life. Their commitment brought renewed hope and joy to the anniversary celebrations, symbolising the Association's continuing growth and vitality. Mr Lukas Basumatary, Provincial Coordinator of the Salesian Cooperators, formally received the promises on behalf of the Association.

Presiding over the Eucharistic celebration, Fr Bivan R. Mukhim SDB, Vice Provincial, invited the Cooperators to cultivate “a listening heart,” drawing inspiration from King Solomon's prayer for wisdom in the First Book of Kings (1 Kgs 3:5, 7–12).

Reflecting on the Gospel passage from Matthew (13:44–52), which recounts the parables of the hidden treasure, the pearl of great price and the net, Fr Mukhim encouraged the faithful to recognise the Kingdom of God as life's greatest treasure and to place Christ above all else. He called on them to preserve the richness of their faith and share it generously through lives of witness, service and commitment to Gospel values.

Congratulating the 17 newly promised Salesian Cooperators, Fr Mukhim encouraged them to remain steadfast in their vocation and become authentic witnesses of Don Bosco's charism in their families, parishes and society. Their promise, he noted, stands as a hopeful sign of the Association's enduring mission as it celebrates 150 years of service to the Church and society.