Dimapur, India, May 27, 2024: The Salesian Province of St.Francis de Sales inaugurated its 15th Provincial Chapter at the Provincial House in Dimapur,marking a significant moment of reflection and spiritual renewal.Themed “Passionate about Jesus Christ, Dedicated to Young People: Living our Salesian Vocation Faithfully and Prophetically,” the Chapter runs from May 27 to May 31,2024. The Chapter commenced with the arrival of participants at 4:00 PM,followed by tea. Chapter moderator Fr. Devasia Rajesh delivered an inspiring welcome address. “As we engage in deep reflection, meaningful dialogue,and thoughtful planning, let us be guided by the Holy Spirit in all our endeavors,” he urged.
Fr. Devasia emphasized the importance of their collective efforts in shaping the province’s future direction, ensuring their mission to serve young people with prophetic zeal remains steadfast.
Fr. Devasia also extended a special welcome to Fr. Devasia Vazhayil SDB, whose presence he described as a blessing. “Your reputation as a profound spiritual leader and animator precedes you, and we are immensely grateful for your willingness to guide us on this.
The evening featured a one-day recollection led by Fr. Devasia Vazhayil SDB, Ph.D. The session began at 5:00 PM with the hymn “Welcome Holy Spirit” and a prayer “Hail Mary.” Fr. Vazhayil’s reflection drew from Article 90 of the Salesian Constitution, which calls for continual conversion through
vigilance, repentance, brotherly correction, mutual forgiveness, and acceptance of daily crosses.
He emphasized the importance of the Sacrament of Reconciliation in this journey. Citing various scriptures, Fr. Vazhayil reminded the attendees of the disciples’ practice of fasting during crucial moments, the call to silence and contemplation, and the imperative of keeping their phones in flight mode during the exposition of the Blessed Sacrament and confessions.
Key Scriptural Insights:
The Word of God calls for continual conversion, facilitated by the Sacrament of Reconciliation (Salesian Constitution, Article 90). The practice of fasting before significant actions (Acts of the
Apostles). The call to watch and pray with Jesus for one hour (Mt 26:40). The urgency of repentance and belief in the Good News (Mk 1:14-15). The blessings of reading and keeping prophetic words (Rev 1:3). The folly of forsaking God, the fountain of living water, for broken cisterns (Jer 2:13).
Seeking God’s approval over human approval (Gal 1:10). Not seeking personal glory but
that which comes from God (Jn 8:50). The transformation and renewal of the mind to discern
God’s will (Rom 12:2). The dedication to reading the law, confessing, and worshiping
(Neh 9:3). The call to action and repentance (Acts 2:37-38). The importance of forgiveness in
prayer (Mk 11:25).
The evening concluded with adoration, dinner, and a night prayer, followed by a goodnight
talk, setting a contemplative tone for the days to come. The Salesian Province looks
forward to a productive and spiritually enriching Chapter, with the Holy Spirit’s guidance ensuring
that their dedication to young people and their Salesian vocation remains vibrant and prophetic.
