In his keynote address, Fr. Jeevan Lakra highlighted the pressing need for Salesians to be deeply present among the young, walking with them through life’s challenges. He urged the participants to accompany youth with compassion, help them draw closer to God, and inspire them to contribute positively to society.
Esteemed resource persons animated the sessions: Fr. Patrick Lepcha, SDB – Director, DBYA-SA, Fr. Shilanand Kerketta, SDB – Youth Ministry Delegate, Delhi Province, Fr. Joji Yeruva, SDB – Youth Director and Social Experience Coordinator, Hyderabad Province, and Fr. Michael Makri, SDB – Director, Don Bosco Media Network and Province Delegate for Social Communication
The programme featured a range of engaging sessions, including mentoring and accompaniment, building Educative Pastoral Communities (EPC) and Salesian Educative Pastoral Plans (SEPP), synodal approaches to ministry, counselling and vocational guidance, and the role of volunteerism. Participants also explored the essential skills of a youth minister, the Oratorian heart, and the growing importance of digital ministry in today’s mission.
A highlight of the gathering was the evening encounter with young people, during which Vancouver Shullai, President of SYM, voiced the expectations of today’s youth: to be heard, welcomed without judgment, supported in their struggles with addiction, and inspired by authentic leadership. The event concluded with a vibrant cultural evening featuring performances by youth from St. Anthony’s and the Nongstoin region.
