(ANS – Kolkata) – Following the celebration of its centennial in February, the Salesian Province of Calcutta (INC) has launched a province-wide visitation aimed at defining its mission and setting a clear direction for its second century of service. The visitation began on June 5, the anniversary of St. John Bosco’s priestly ordination, and is being led by Fr. Biju Michael, Regional Councilor for South Asia and delegate of the Rector Major.

During the opening session, Fr. Biju posed a challenging question to rectors, pastors, and confreres: “Quo Vadis INC?”—Where is the province headed in its next century?

Describing the visitation as an opportunity for reflection and renewal, Fr. Biju encouraged the province to look beyond its achievements of the past and critically examine its future. He presented a four-part framework focused on understanding current realities, evaluating community life and financial stewardship, listening to young people, and ensuring effective implementation of future initiatives. The central themes were clear: assess the present, review internal practices, engage the voices of youth, and commit to meaningful follow-through.

Fr. Biju also highlighted the congregation’s priorities for the next six years, both globally and regionally. At the global level, he emphasized placing Christ at the center, strengthening pastoral competencies, addressing the challenges posed by artificial intelligence in education, and supporting the Salesian University. Regional priorities include strengthening community life, serving marginalized young people, collaborating more closely with lay partners, and accompanying youth in digital environments.

The day began with an invocation of the Holy Spirit, followed by a welcome from Provincial Fr. Sunil Kerketta. Calling the visitation a timely opportunity for discernment, Fr. Kerketta encouraged the confreres to listen attentively to God, their collaborators, and especially to young people.

Fr. Eugene Kujur, Rector of Don Bosco Bharoul Chakraghatty, Nepal, read Articles 126 and 127 of the Salesian Constitutions, providing the constitutional foundation for the gathering. Fr. Biju then led an interactive session on the history of the province and the South Asia Region, followed by a presentation outlining the objectives of the visitation.

At noon, Fr. Biju presided over the inaugural Holy Eucharist. In his homily, he emphasized the Gospel’s call to holiness as a process of personal transformation rather than mere activity. He encouraged the confreres to focus on “becoming” rather than simply “doing” or “having,” reminding them that the Salesian charism must be lived authentically and expressed through concrete acts of service.

Following lunch, Fr. Biju met with members of the Provincial Council. The next phase of the visitation will take him to Don Bosco Samthar in Kalimpong, where the broader engagement process will begin.

As the province enters its second century, the question “Quo Vadis INC?” remains at the heart of its reflection and planning, guiding efforts to define its mission and strengthen its service to young people throughout the region.

Fr. Arvind Khalkho, SDB

Source: Don Bosco South Asia