austraLasia 1369

Salesians in India begin their centenary celebrations 
  
BANGALORE: 28th December 2005 -- The Salesian presence in India is now one hundred years old. The first batch of Salesians, destined for Tanjore in Tamil Nadu, India, embarked from Genoa on  December 17, 1905 on board the steamer Rubattino. On 5 January of the following year they landed at Bombay. After a week in Bombay, the group proceeded to Tanjore to begin their pioneering work in the orphanage there. The first batch of Salesians from different nations, three priests, a cleric, a brother, and an aspirant, was led by Fr. George Tomatis. The one hundred years of their presence in India is marked by celebrations that were begun in February 2005 at New Delhi. 
    As a part of the centenary celebrations, a research seminar is being conducted for the Salesian Family members at Kristu Jyoti College from January 1-5, 2006. Approximately one hundred and fifty participants are expected to take part, drawn from SDB, FMA, SMI, MSMHC, Salesian Co-operators, and Past Pupils. Research papers on various aspects of Salesian life will be presented. The seminar is to take stock of the past and propose adequate strategies for the future life and mission of the Salesians in India. In view of this research seminar, there have already been local zone research seminars organised during this year past, 2005, on five important topics of Salesian life: catechesis and evangelisation, education, youth ministry, communication media, and Salesian formation. 
    A Thanksgiving prayer service will begin in all  Salesian communities in India on January 5, 2006, the day on which the first batch of Salesians landed in India. From then onwards, all Salesian communities will be united in prayer and re dedication of their life and mission. On February 6, 2006, this will culminate in the re commitment to their  future mission and life. The centenary celebration will climax at Tanjore, the first launching pad of Salesian missions and life in India on February 6 in the presence of the Rector Major of the Salesians and the Salesian Family, Fr. Pascal Chavez. 
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