Extraordinary Visit to Don Bosco High School & Jr. College, Naigaon (E)

The 20th and 21st of November 2022 were red-letter days in the calendar of Don Bosco High School & Jr. College, as the General Councillor for the South Asia region, Fr. Biju Michael Pulianmackal, visited the institution and spent blessed days with the Salesians, parishioners, staff, and students.

Beginning his visit at 4 pm, he first met with the house Council members, briefed them, and gave them an animating talk based on the Salesian Charism. Fr. Biju Michael then presided over Holy mass at the Mary Help of Christians church. He met with members of the PPC and other associations and gave them a listening ear. He also congratulated them for the good work they were doing in the parish for the poor and for the faith that enabled them to do so. His presence amongst the parishioners was indeed an uplifting one.

Father also met with each Salesian from the house and enquired into any concerns they had.

This Extraordinary Visitation in school began at the onset of the next day, by invoking the blessings of the Almighty at Holy Mass. During the cultural programme that followed the Rector, Rev. Fr. Dominic Martis, officially introduced and welcomed Fr. Biju Michael. The welcome address gave everyone an insight into his multi-faceted accomplishments. The ceremonial lighting of the lamp then took place with the Guest of Honour, and representatives of the management, staff, and students. An elegant Prayer Dance set the tone for the short programme that followed.

A brief presentation gave the audience a glimpse into the history, achievements, and vision of the institution. The concepts of eco spirituality, The Don Bosco Charism and other innovative practices used to promote the holistic development of the students were an integral part of the presentation.

One of the highlights of the programme was the unveiling of the logo for the first-ever collective exhibition ‘Be Peacemakers’ by Rev. Fr. Biju Michael. He congratulated and thanked the management, staff and students and wished us the best in this endeavour.

Fr. Biju Michael then addressed the gathering and explained how justice and love are pre-requisites to peace. In an analogy of a thermometer and thermostat, he urged students to be thermostats (not only thermometers) and always take that extra step to make themselves and the world a better place.

In a meeting with the management and staff, Rev. Fr. Biju Michael reiterated Don Bosco’s vision of serving the young, especially the poor. He inspired teachers to use caring to give wings to each child so that they could in turn fulfil their own dreams and the dreams of their parents. The Regional Councillor then had a meeting with the staff members only and replied to any query very lucidly and frankly.

Rev. Fr. Biju Michael’s visit left a feeling of motivation, encouragement, and upliftment amongst all.

Mrs. Gail Fernandes
(Teacher – Mentor)