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The leaders of the Salesian Province of St. Joseph, Hyderabad, gathered in prayer and celebration to bid farewell to Fr. Vanga Joseph, who is set to depart for Papua New Guinea on December 2, 2024, to serve as a missionary.
The solemn Eucharistic celebration, held in his honour, was concelebrated by Fr. Biju Michael, Regional Councillor for South Asia, and Fr. Santiagu Thomas, Provincial of the Hyderabad Province.
During his homily, Fr. Vanga Joseph reflected on the lives of great missionaries and visionaries such as Abraham, St. Paul, St. Francis Xavier, and St. Don Bosco, drawing inspiration from their unwavering commitment to their calling. He shared how their life testimonies have shaped and sustained his own missionary journey.
Fr. Santiagu Thomas, expressing both pride and bittersweet emotions, remarked, “To be a missionary is not Fr. Vanga Joseph’s personal desire, but God’s plan for him. Though we are sad to lose such a resourceful confrere, we are glad to send a dedicated missionary to serve where the need is great.”
Adding to the sentiments, Fr. Vice Provincial described Fr. Vanga Joseph as a man of simplicity, honesty, and genuineness, qualities that have left a lasting impression on the province. In an emotional address, Fr. Vanga Joseph acknowledged the Salesians who nurtured his vocation and thanked his formators for their inspiring lives and witness.
The celebration concluded with a felicitation by Fr. Biju Michael and Fr. Santiagu Thomas, followed by congratulatory messages and assurances of prayers from provincial leaders. The gathering culminated in a fellowship meal, marking a memorable send-off for the departing missionary. Fr. Vanga Joseph’s journey to Papua New Guinea reflects the Salesian commitment to spreading the Gospel and serving marginalized communities worldwide.
