On 4th August, the community of Don Bosco Navajeevan, Ramanthapur echoed with love, gratitude, and festivity as the children of the centre came together to honour the Salesian Fathers on the feast of St John Mary Vianney, the patron saint of priests. The celebration wasn’t merely a liturgical commemoration — it was a heartfelt gesture of appreciation from young hearts who have experienced first-hand the compassion, commitment, and care of their shepherds.
The children seized the sacred occasion to offer their warm greetings and convey their deep thanks to the priests of their community, acknowledging not only their tireless efforts but also their constant presence as mentors, protectors, and fatherly figures.
St John Vianney, whose feast is celebrated across the globe, is remembered as a humble parish priest whose dedication and holiness continue to inspire clergy worldwide. For the Salesians at Ramanthapur, this day stood as a mirror to their own mission — one of serving, guiding, and uplifting the least and the lost, especially vulnerable children.
A Home of Hope and Healing
Don Bosco Navajeevan, Ramanthapur is more than just a centre; it is a sanctuary for street and disadvantaged children. Its unique mission encompasses:
- Street Presence – Reaching out to children directly on the streets.
- Home for Primary School Children – Offering stability and education to the youngest
- Round-the-Clock Shelter – Providing safety, food, and rest to those in need.
- Bridge School – Creating a learning path for children disconnected from mainstream education.
- Campaign for the Rights of the Child (CRC) – Advocating and raising awareness about child rights.
- Rehabilitation Centre – Helping children reintegrate into society with dignity.
Each of these vital services is animated by the selfless dedication of the Salesian community, which stands like a pillar behind every smiling child, every restored hope, and every small miracle witnessed within these walls.
A Family of Fathers and Brothers
Fr Lingampalli Ashok, the Rector of the community, leads the mission with dedicated leadership and compassionate pastoral care. Alongside him, the Salesian community is blessed with a team of devoted priests and brothers who bring their individual strengths to the collective mission:
Fr Thumma Pradeep, Fr Vetakula Gnanapragasam, Fr Bedikala Mahesh, Fr Miriyala Bala Kishore, Fr Medi Sleevaraju, Bro Jaladi Nivas, and Bro Anthoti Sandeep.
Each of them plays a unique and essential role, forming a spiritual family whose influence stretches far beyond the compound walls of Navajeevan.
In a world often marked by brokenness and neglect, Don Bosco Navajeevan at Ramanthapur stands as a lighthouse and its priests as beacons, leading countless young lives towards brighter horizons.
The Bigger Picture: A Province Committed to Children
The Salesian Province of Hyderabad (INH) has been at the forefront of child welfare and education in the Telugu-speaking regions. Through various Navajeevan centres spread across Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, the Salesians have reached thousands of children and youth, transforming broken lives into stories of resilience and success.
