Calcutta (India). On 20 December 2025, in Kolkata, India, the Salesian Family gathered to commemorate two important missionary anniversaries: the 150th anniversary of the first Salesian missionary expedition to Argentina and Patagonia and the 100th anniversary of the Salesian presence in the Province of Kolkata.
“Thank, Rethink, and Relaunch” was the theme of the event, which offered the opportunity to recognize the Salesians rich missionary heritage and renew commitment to the ongoing mission of evangelization, education, and social transformation.
The Day began with the solemn Eucharistic Celebration, presided over by Fr. Joseph Pauria, SDB, Provincial of St. John Bosco Province (INC) and animated by the liturgical choir of the host parish of Liluah. Numerous members of the Salesian Family were present —including Daughters of Mary Help of Christians of Mary Help of Christians Province (INC), with the Provincial, Sister Leelamma Palliparambil; Salesians of Don Bosco, Missionary Sisters of Mary Immaculate Help of Christians (MSMHC), Sisters of Mary Immaculate (SMI), Disciples of Don Bosco, priests, and lay collaborators — a reflection of the shared responsibility and continuity of the Salesian mission.
Introducing the Celebration, Father Sanjay Manohar Kujur, SDB, Rector of the Parish, framed the historical and spiritual context, recalling the faith, courage, and sacrifice of the first missionaries inspired by St. John Bosco.
In the homily, the Provincial took up the evangelical image of the Good Shepherd, emphasizing the mission as an expression of oblative love, pastoral care, and service of dedication to the people of God. He also expressed appreciation for the commitment of the Province Mission Sector and the organizational team in promoting missionary sensitivity and collaboration.
The Day’s program traced the historical development of the Salesian mission in India, which began with the arrival of missionaries in Tanjore in 1906, and its gradual expansion into Bengal and other regions. This growth eventually led to the formation of separate Provinces, including Calcutta, reflecting institutional maturity and adaptability. The contribution of more than 460 European missionaries was also gratefully acknowledged for their significant role in strengthening education, evangelization, and social services.
In a theatrical performance, FMA Aspirants from Auxilium Barasat then presented the missionary itinerary of Saint Maria Troncatti in Ecuador, illustrating her loving service among the indigenous Shuar people through evangelization, health care, and education.
Particular emphasis was placed on the legacy of forward-thinking leaders such as Bishop Stephen Ferrando, SDB, founder of the MSMHC in Shillong, India, whose Aspirants vividly illustrated through a small theatrical performance, the Congregation’s origins in the Khasi Hills of Shillong, highlighting its ongoing missionary focus on education, pastoral apostolate, and improving the social conditions of women and families.
The afternoon was further enriched by cultural and prayer performances, including Santhali and Bengali dances and a small dance performance by children from Ashalayam, who expressed the inculturation of the Salesian charism. In a creative presentation, the seminarians of Don Bosco Bandel recalled the missionary guidelines of St. John Bosco, emphasizing simplicity, closeness to young people, cultural adaptability, and unwavering trust in Mary Help of Christians.
Another significant moment was the contribution of Bishop Louis La Ravoire Morrow, SDB, founder of the Congregation of the Sisters of Mary Immaculate (SMI), officially known as the Catechist Sisters of Mary Immaculate Help of Christians, on 12 December 1948 in Krishnagar, West Bengal. His missionary vision emphasized education and pastoral commitment as essential means for the empowerment of women and the strengthening of families, especially in regions with limited access to social and educational resources. This approach, rooted in family visits, community involvement, and education, continues to shape and guide pastoral priorities today.
In his closing address, Fr. Joseph Pauria recognized the valuable contribution of the Salesian Family in cultivating and spreading the Salesian charism. Parish catechists have been praised for their passionate service, with special mention to the Disciples of Don Bosco, who faithfully serve in parishes and mission centers in India and abroad.
Salesian Mission Day was thus characterized not only as a commemorative moment of the past, but as a renewed affirmation of an ongoing missionary commitment. The celebration concluded with an act of thanksgiving proposed by Fr. Roshan Kullu, followed by a fraternal meal.
