187 students from nine Don Bosco educational institutions of the Salesian Province of Panjim-Konkan, spread across three dioceses gathered at Don Bosco Oratory (DBO), Panjim, on February 13, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., for the Province Catechetical Day. United under the inspiring theme, Shine with Faith, Rise with Hope, the teenage participants experienced a day beautifully interwoven with prayer, joy, reflection, and fellowship.
The programme created a vibrant space where faith met life. Through energetic dances-action songs, meaningful Biblical songs, gripping narratives of saintly lives, thought-provoking short Biblical citations, and inspiring references to contemporary personalities, the students were encouraged to discover how they could become hope-filled witnesses in a world often marked by confusion and discouragement. Group-sharing sessions provided them an opportunity to listen attentively, express their convictions, and learn from one another, fostering a spirit of communion and mutual enrichment.
At the heart of the day was the solemn Eucharistic Celebration at the Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima, Panjim. The Holy Mass was presided over by the Vice-Provincial INP, Father Banzelao Teixeira, SDB, who reminded the young participants that authentic hope springs from a living encounter with Christ. Fathers Jonathan, Tamatur, Jacinto, Lionel, Ronald and Melvin were the concelebrants of the day. The Panjim School, under the guidance of Cleic Darryl Cheradil, SDB, enriched the celebration with meaningful hymns, while Don Bosco Farm High School, Sulcorna, animated the liturgy with devotion and enthusiasm under the leadership of Cleric Elton Fernandes, SDB. The Eucharist truly became the spiritual summit of the day.
Despite a minor setback when the prepared pulao rice fell short, the catering team promptly responded with admirable efficiency, providing chicken fried rice to ensure that all were served. It was heartening to witness some students cheerfully content with simple servings of sliced bread, chicken curry, and chole masala. Their spirit of understanding and gratitude reflected the very theme of the day, rising with hope even amid small inconveniences.
The afternoon was enlivened by an engaging Quiz Competition, which kept enthusiasm high. The contest was intense, with teams vying for the top position for over an hour. Don Bosco Farm High School, Sulcorna, emerged victorious in the quiz competition. Creativity also found expression through the, Hope Journal initiative. Vladlen Fernandes of Don Bosco High School, Quepem, secured first place with an exceptionally crafted journal. The second prize was awarded to Sheryl Gomes of Quepem High School, and the third to Mackenzia Fernandes of Don Bosco Farm High School, Sulcorna. Among the teams, Savio, Bosco, and Zeferino distinguished themselves through their active participation and teamwork.
Each participant returned to his or her school with a certificate and a keychain of Saint John Bosco, a small yet meaningful reminder to continue shining with faith and rising with hope in daily life.
The day concluded on a note of gratitude and praise, as voices joined together in thanksgiving to God through the traditional hymn, Argam Tuka Somia. The participants echoed the words of the Blessed Virgin Mary, The Almighty has done great things for me; holy is His name (Luke 1:49), expressing their joy and gratitude for a day richly blessed.
