0
0
The XVII Southern Zonal Conference of Salesian Cooperators concluded successfully at Provincial House in Hyderabad, drawing over 80 representatives from across the southern zone. Held on February 15 and 16, the event underscored the vital role of Salesian Cooperators in promoting the charism of St. John Bosco, known as Don Bosco, through formation, apostolic life, and youth accompaniment.
The conference commenced on February 15 with a flag-hoisting ceremony, followed by an inauguration featuring a prayer dance performed by students from Don Bosco School, Bandlaguda. The ceremonial lighting of the lamp was conducted by five dignitaries: Fr. Joseph Manippadam, South Asia Regional Delegate for Salesian Cooperators; Mr. Devasia Kuriakose, South Asia World Councillor; Fr. V. Rayappa, INH Province Delegate for Salesian Cooperators; Fr. Maddhichetty Noel, INH Province Delegate for Past Pupils; and Mr. Jonnalagadda Prasad, INH Province Coordinator.
The two-day event featured four key presentations. Fr. Joseph Manippadam delivered the first talk, titled “Salesian Cooperators Association: A Reality Check,” urging the establishment of consultative bodies at local, provincial, and national levels, alongside graded and joint formation programs and annual participatory projects. He stressed that these measures are essential to fortifying the association and advancing Don Bosco’s mission. The second talk, “PAL: The Project of Apostolic Life,” presented by Mr. TK Devasia, explored the Salesian Cooperators’ constitutions, emphasizing fidelity to Don Bosco’s vision and the role of the Project of Apostolic Life (PAL) in fostering apostolic commitment.
On the same day, Mr. Jack Clamacus addressed “Guidelines on Formation,” offering practical insights into ongoing formation and spiritual growth for Salesian Cooperators. The final talk, “Salesian Cooperators: A True Vocation Plan of God,” was delivered by Mr. KE Arockia Arasu, Regional Formator, who called on attendees to recognize their vocation as a divine calling and to respond with dedication.
The second day, February 16, featured a panel discussion titled “Salesian Cooperators as Co-Pilgrims with the Young.” Panelists highlighted the importance of accompanying young people, sharing experiences, and providing mentorship, reinforcing the Salesian commitment to youth welfare.
Organizers and attendees hailed the conference as a triumph, offering a vital platform for collaboration, reflection, and renewed commitment to Don Bosco’s legacy. “This gathering has deepened our understanding of our role as Salesian Cooperators,” said one participant. “It’s a call to live out our vocation with passion and generosity, especially in serving the young.”
The XVII Southern Zonal Conference concluded with a renewed pledge among attendees to strengthen their mission through formation, apostolic life, and co-pilgrimage with youth, ensuring the enduring impact of Don Bosco’s charism in the region.
