The Salesian family of Don Bosco, Attavar came together in faith and fellowship on May 20, 2026 to celebrate the Feast of Mary Help of Christians, a devotion deeply rooted in the Salesian charism. The solemn celebration was marked by prayer, reflection, and joyful fraternity, with 25 Cooperators joining the community for the occasion.
The Eucharistic celebration was presided over by Rector, Don Bosco Youth Centre, Shirva, Father Kiran Nazareth SDB, who served as the main celebrant. Concelebrating with him were the Salesians of the Attavar community. The liturgy was animated with hymns to Our Lady, creating an atmosphere of reverence and love for the Mother of God.
Mary: Our Guide to Jesus
In his homily, Father Nazareth delivered a practical and heartfelt reflection on, the presence of Mary in the life of a Christian. Breaking away from abstract theology, he connected the devotion to daily life.
Mary is not distant. She is a mother who walks with us, Father Nazareth said. She is a model for each one of us because she always leads us to Jesus. Her first words at Cana were, Do whatever He tells you. That is her mission even today.
He explained the title Mary Help of Christians, tracing its history to Pope Pius VII’s deliverance in 1814 and its special place in Don Bosco’s heart. Don Bosco faced poverty, opposition, and endless challenges with his boys at the Oratory. He did not rely on wealth or influence. He put everything in the hands of Mary Help of Christians, Father Nazareth noted. He taught his boys to say three Hail Marys and to trust her completely. He built the Basilica of Mary Help of Christians in Turin as a sign of gratitude. For us Salesians, this devotion is not optional — it is our way of life.
Father Nazareth urged the faithful, especially the Cooperators, to imitate Don Bosco’s filial trust. In your families, in your work, in moments of discouragement, turn to her. She is Help of Christians because she helps each Christian to be faithful to Christ.
A Family Around the Table
The Mass was followed by a solemn fellowship meal that reflected the true Salesian family spirit. The Cooperators, Salesians, and friends of Don Bosco shared a simple yet joyful lunch in the community hall. Laughter, memories, and mission stories were exchanged freely. The gathering became more than a meal — it was a living reminder of Don Bosco’s ideal of “family” where all feel at home.
The Cooperators expressed their joy at being part of the celebration. It feels like we are part of one big family, said a senior Cooperator. Father Nazareth's homily was so practical. We can take Mary home with us, not just in pictures, but in the way we trust and serve.
The celebration concluded with a hymn of thanksgiving to Mary Help of Christians. The Salesian spirit of cheerfulness and togetherness was evident throughout the day.
As Don Bosco once said, Trust all things to Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament and to Mary Help of Christians, and you will see what miracles are. At Attavar, on her feast day, that trust was renewed once again by the Salesian family, united under her mantle.
Don Bosco, Attavar continues to foster the Salesian charism through its youth ministry, parish outreach, and the vibrant presence of Salesian Cooperators.
