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Hyderabad, January 21: The Province of St. Joseph, Hyderabad, hosted a two-day Leaders’ Meet on January 20th and 21st, 2025. The event brought together Salesian leaders from across the province for a series of enriching sessions, discussions, and celebrations.
Day 1: Midlife Transition and Reports
The first day began with insightful sessions on “Midlife Transition,” led by Fr. Donthireddy Raja, SDB, offering participants practical guidance on navigating this crucial phase of life. In Session III, Fr. Yeruva Joji shared his report on the Salesian Youth Movement (SYM) Fest held in Tirupattur, where 80 youngsters from the Hyderabad Province participated, accompanied by priests and sisters. He emphasized the vibrant involvement of the youth in Salesian initiatives. Later, the Provincial, Fr. Santiagu Thomas, SDB, presented the Extraordinary Visitation Report, detailing the progress and challenges within the province.
The evening witnessed a solemn Holy Eucharist celebrated by newly ordained priests: Fr. Chinthaguntla Prem Kumar, SDB, Fr. Kadiyam Prasanna Kumar, SDB, Fr. Koduri Joseph Thambi, SDB, and Fr. Ubbana Suresh, SDB. These priests, ordained by Most Rev. Joseph Raja Rao, D.D., Bishop of Vijayawada, on December 28, 2024, were felicitated after the Mass. The day concluded with a festive dinner.
Day 2: Encyclical Reflection and Youth Ministry Focus
The second day began with a session on Pope Francis’ encyclical Dilexit Nos, focusing on the human and divine love of the Heart of Jesus Christ, presented by Fr. Wilson Jose, SDB. In another session, Fr. Kishore explored “Youth Ministry & Family,” emphasizing the critical role of families in shaping young lives. Using a PowerPoint presentation, he highlighted the importance of training and involving families in youth ministry.
The day culminated with a Jubilee Mass in Don Bosco Shrine, honoring Salesians celebrating significant milestones: 25th Anniversary of Priestly Ordination of Fr. Bellamkonda A. Sudhakar, SDB, Fr. Mallavarapu Rayanna, SDB, Fr. Valiaparambil James, SDB, and Fr. Puthussery Sojan, SDB. 25th Anniversary of Religious Profession of Fr. Michael Jayaraj Alex, SDB, Fr. Pitchaimuthu Arul Das, SDB, and Fr. Yandava Kalyan Kumar, SDB, The celebrations continued with felicitations in Don Vecchi Hall and a Jubilee Dinner at the Provincial House, where confreres gathered to honor the jubilarians and foster fraternity.
The Leaders’ Meet successfully combined reflection, learning, and celebration, reaffirming the Salesian mission’s commitment to spiritual growth and youth empowerment.
