The Don Bosco Youth Pilgrimage, held at the Don Bosco Shrine, Bandlaguda Jagir, brought together enthusiastic young people from the Salesian Parishes of Bandlaguda, Borabanda, and Sanathnagar, Hyderabad, on 27th August, under the theme “Youth as Pilgrims of Hope.” The day-long event was marked by prayer, reflection, sharing, and vibrant celebrations, all inspired by the life and mission of Don Bosco.
The programme commenced with an icebreaker and an address by Fr Santiagu Thomas, the Provincial, who set a faith-filled and uplifting tone for the day. This was followed by an inspiring session on Don Bosco’s life and mission by Fr Benny SDB, which highlighted the saint’s vision for the young. A moving testimony by Fr Cheruvathur James SDB further encouraged participants to live their faith with courage and hope.
Fr Sudhakar then offered valuable guidance on the responsible use of digital media, a vital aspect of youth formation in today’s world. Following a joyful lunch break and fellowship, Fr Mariadas SDB animated the gathering with a talk on The Mission of Don Bosco, after which Fr Santhamurthy SDB led a lively session of Praise and Worship, lifting hearts in song and prayer.
The spiritual climax of the pilgrimage was the Holy Eucharist, presided over by the Provincial, during which the relic of Don Bosco was venerated. In his homily, Fr Provincial encouraged the young participants to be pilgrims of hope, reminding them that Christ walks with them in their life struggles and that Don Bosco continues to intercede on their behalf. On this occasion, the annual plan of Don Bosco Youth Services was officially launched.
The event was meticulously planned and coordinated by Fr Joji SDB, Youth Director of the Province, who thanked the Rectors and Parish Priests for their collaboration. He presented the annual plan in detail and encouraged the young people to make regular visits to the shrine so as to be spiritually enriched and strengthened in their faith.
The day concluded with information sharing, group feedback, and common reflections. The entire pilgrimage proved to be an enriching experience, leaving the youth spiritually renewed and motivated to walk in the footsteps of Don Bosco in their life’s journey.
