The Salesian Family Leaders’ Meet 2026, on the theme, One Family, Joyfully Serving the Young, was a grace-filled gathering where leaders renewed their faith and joyfully embraced God’s call to serve the young was successfully held on January 15, 2026 at Auxilium, Benaulim, Goa.
Sister Meena Fernandes and the Past Pupils graciously welcomed participants during the registration, setting the tone for a day marked by unity and heartfelt connection. The programme was gracefully compered by Caroline Cardoz, whose clarity, poise, and warmth guided the gathering beautifully.
The Inaugural Ceremony, animated by Sister Pricilla D’Souza, invoked God’s presence and blessings upon all. The melodious welcome song and the symbolic presentation of potted plants created an atmosphere of joy and warmth, preparing hearts to listen, receive, and respond.
In her welcome address, Superior of Auxilium Benaulim, Sister Cecilia Crasta, warmly welcomed everyone and highlighted the strength of the Salesian Family journeying together.
The introductory keynote address was delivered by Provincial, Saint Mary Mazzarello Province Mumbai, Sister Meenakshi D’Silva. She spoke eloquently on the importance of family, calling for genuine communion, collaborative leadership, and an authentic commitment to the Salesian mission.
As Sister Antonette D’Souza animated a joyful Moment of Communion, participants experienced warmth, laughter, and a deep sense of oneness.
The spiritual heart of the morning was the Presentation of the Strenna 2026, by Vice Provincial, INP, Father Banzelao Teixeira, who focused on the theme, Do whatever He tells you – Believers, free to serve, the reflection highlighted Mary’s loving intervention at Cana—her attentive listening, deep trust, and gentle guidance. Participants were invited to cultivate listening hearts, open and free, ready for generous service.
The moment of Sharing of Best Practices unfolded a spirit-filled session, revealing the living testimony of faith in action and the rich diversity of the Salesian Family. Sister Hilda Braganza, provincial delegate of the salesian family, spoke on the growth of the Salesian Family, highlighting strengthened bonds, expanding collaboration, and a deepening sense of belonging. Ms. Shriley Fernandes shared inspiring initiatives of the Salesian Cooperators, witnessing commitment and joyful service. Representing the ADMA Group, Mrs. Enid Varela reflected on how Marian devotion continues to nourish faith and animate apostolic zeal. Mr. Luis Fernandes, speaking on behalf of the SDB Past Pupils, shared meaningful experiences of social involvement and faith-based outreach. Mr. Sanjay Shrungare, representing the FMA Past Pupils, expressed gratitude for the lasting formative influence of Salesian education and highlighted the inspiring initiatives of Past Pupils. Sister Jyothi D’Souza (SMI) highlighted the compassionate presence of the Sisters of Mary Immaculate among the marginalized. Sister Rose Paite (MSMHC) spoke of missionary courage and joyful outreach of the Missionary Sisters of Mary Help of Christians, particularly among the young migrants from the North East.
Representing the Salesians of Don Bosco Panjim Province, Father Joel D’Souza reaffirmed their mission with the young and highlighted the warm hospitality of the new Provincial House—a vibrant home of Salesian communion.
The session concluded with Sister Latha Arogyaswamy (FMA), who highlighted the blessings of the INB Province, recalling the canonization of Saint Maria Troncatti, celebrating holiness, and sharing key educational milestones reflecting God’s provident guidance.
The Sharing of Best Practices wove a sacred tapestry of unity in diversity, showcasing a vibrant, dynamic Salesian Family—one in spirit and mission, deeply committed to the young, and rich in hope.
Mrs. Enid Varela brought smiles and laughter during the Lighter Moments, reminding all that joy is the hallmark of Salesian spirituality.
An Eco Session, “Stop and Smell the Roses – A Journey into Mindful Living with Nature,” invited participants to slow down, encounter God in creation, and renew their responsibility to care for Mother Earth.
The gathering concluded with a message from the Provincial INP, Father Clive Telles, who encouraged all to carry forward the Family Spirit, grow in unity, and serve the young joyfully. He also appreciated the initiatives undertaken to strengthen the Salesian Family and expressed gratitude to the Provincial Delegates, Father Anisio Mota and Sister Hilda Braganza, for their continued efforts in making the sector vibrant.
A significant moment of the day was the release of the PAL Document in two local Scripts of Roman Konkani and Kannada Konkani by Father Telles and Sister Meenakshi D’Silva, providing a valuable companion for Cooperators to deepen their understanding of their vocation and the Salesian charism. Thank you for the initiative taken by Father Mota provincial delegate with the assistance of Father Jason Pinto in getting this Document released.
Father Mota offered a heartfelt vote of thanks, appreciating the shared efforts that made the meet smooth, meaningful, and grace-filled. Special recognition was extended to the Auxilium Benaulim community for their warm hospitality and to Sister Braganza, whose careful planning and steadfast dedication made the day truly meaningful, beautiful, and inspiring.
