THANK YOU

Rev. Fr Guillermo Basaes SDB

Fr. VM Thomas SDB

Provincial, Guwahati

3

20

16

JU

NE

EXTRAORDINARY VISITATION

Message

-NEWSLINE Correspondent

The extraordinary visitation of the province of Guwahati began on 19th February. Rev. Fr Guillermo Basaes, General Councillor for the Missions, was the extraordinary visitor and was in the province till 25th May 2016.

Welcoming the visitor to the province, Rev. Fr. VM Thomas said that the visitation is a time for renewal and

introspection on our mission for the young. He said that the province is happy to have Fr. Basaes as the

visitor. He is a person who knows the pulse of the confreres and who easily connects with everyone. Fr.

Provincial told the confreres that the visit would give new life and hope to be united to with St. John Bosco

and to work wholeheartedly for the growth of the mission. He also mentioned that the province has challenges

and problems, and that the visitor would be able to help each confrere walk the path set outby Don Bosco.

Fr. Guillermo Basaes said that he had come to encourage and help to live the resolutions that were made

during the provincial chapter. My concern is to sit and listen to the confreres one by one and to learn from

what you do, he said. He asked every confrere to be open and to speak to him frankly and that this would

result in the good of the province.

Tangla:

The first community that the visitor visited in

the province was Tangla. Fr. Basaes reached

Tangla at 7.35 pm on 19 February, 2016. At his

arrival, the Salesians, the parishioners and the

hostel boys extended to him a warm welcome.

Adivasi and Boro dance troupes performed

their respective dances, accompanied by

fireworks all along the way till the portico of

the house where the boarding boys received

him. Fr. Sebastian Edathumparambil, Rector,

introduced the visiting councillor to the crowd

as the representative of the Rector Major for the

extraordinary visitation. From Tangla he

proceeded to Dimakuchi.

Dimakuchi: Fr. Basaes reached Dimakuchi in the

evening of 21st February, 2016, from Tangla Parish with a

halt at Sikaribangla village for a reception and interaction

with the villagers. On his arrival the confreres, the

parishioners, the Sisters and the hostel boys and girls of

Dimakuchi extended to him a warm welcome through the

traditional hand washing ceremony and by offering him

colourful scarves. Cultural dance troupes from

Borengajuli TE and Sonajuli village accompanied the

visitor from the gate of the presbytery to the felicitation

venue. Fr. Barnabas Mardi, Rector and Parish Priest,

introduced Fr.Basaes to the people, saying that he had

come in the name of the Rector Major for an extraordinary

visitation. Later, the visitor joined the community for the

community vespers. After spending two nights at

Dimakuchi, he left for Sirajuli at 3:00 pm of 23rd Feb.

My dear confreres,

We have just concluded the Extraordinary Visitation of the Province by

Fr. Guillermo Basaes, the General Councillor for the Missions. His visit

to the different centres of our province was a source of blessing for us, as

well as an encouragement to all of us engaged in the mission of our

province. The Extraordinary Visitation afforded us an opportunity to see

the growth in the province, the stability that has been achieved in our

works by the dynamism and enthusiasm of our confreres to carry forward

our mission, to acknowledge the pioneering contributions made by those

who preceded us in the mission, to find joy in the variety and quality of

our services that enable us to achieve the goals of our mission, and above

all to thank God Almighty for His many blessings to all of us in the

province. We bow our heads in loving gratitude before the Lord of all

goodness and blessings. Fr. Basaes in his final report to the Leaders of the province described the

confreres as enthusiastic, hard working and close to the poor. He congratulated the confreres for the

prayerful spirit in communities and said "I enjoyed the beautiful symphony of Don Bosco in the

province". During his meeting with leaders of communities he also highlighted areas of weakness

and proposed needed interventions for the growth and mission of the province. The interventions

should be seen as integral elements of our individual lives, seamlessly woven into the fabric that

constitutes our life and apostolate as religious.

The past couple of years have seen very significant developments in the life of the Church as a

whole and in the life of our congregation in particular. The Church world over celebrated the Year of

Consecrated Life in 2014-15, immediately following which our Holy Father Pope Francis declared

the Extraordinary Jubilee Year of Mercy as a special time for the Church. In addition our own

Congregation celebrated the bicentenary of the birth of Don Bosco, our father and founder. We are

called to gaze even more attentively on mercy so that we may become a more effective sign of the

Father's action in our lives and the witness of believers might grow stronger and more effective

(MV 3) is the message that Pope Francis gives right at the beginning of the papal document

Misericordiae Vultus (The Face of Mercy).

As our father and founder Don Bosco witnessed to the mercy of the Father to the needy youth of his

day, we are today called to be witnesses and agents of the Father's mercy for the needy youth of our

region. May the Spirit of the Lord always lead each of us along the way of mercy towards every one.

The power of the Spirit will help us live our lives in forgiveness always, not condemning or judging

anyone, at anytime, anywhere. May our lives always bear witness to the motto of the Extraordinary

Jubilee Year of Mercy: Be Merciful like the Father. Following the call of our Holy Father, I invite

each of you, dear confreres, to reflect on our lives as religious, persons who are called to be agents

and witnesses of mercy.

Fr. VM Thomas SDB

Provincial, Guwahati

3

20

16

JU

NE

EXTRAORDINARY VISITATION

Message

-NEWSLINE Correspondent

The extraordinary visitation of the province of Guwahati began on 19th February. Rev. Fr Guillermo Basaes, General Councillor for the Missions, was the extraordinary visitor and was in the province till 25th May 2016.

Welcoming the visitor to the province, Rev. Fr. VM Thomas said that the visitation is a time for renewal and

introspection on our mission for the young. He said that the province is happy to have Fr. Basaes as the

visitor. He is a person who knows the pulse of the confreres and who easily connects with everyone. Fr.

Provincial told the confreres that the visit would give new life and hope to be united to with St. John Bosco

and to work wholeheartedly for the growth of the mission. He also mentioned that the province has challenges

and problems, and that the visitor would be able to help each confrere walk the path set outby Don Bosco.

Fr. Guillermo Basaes said that he had come to encourage and help to live the resolutions that were made

during the provincial chapter. My concern is to sit and listen to the confreres one by one and to learn from

what you do, he said. He asked every confrere to be open and to speak to him frankly and that this would

result in the good of the province.

Tangla:

The first community that the visitor visited in

the province was Tangla. Fr. Basaes reached

Tangla at 7.35 pm on 19 February, 2016. At his

arrival, the Salesians, the parishioners and the

hostel boys extended to him a warm welcome.

Adivasi and Boro dance troupes performed

their respective dances, accompanied by

fireworks all along the way till the portico of

the house where the boarding boys received

him. Fr. Sebastian Edathumparambil, Rector,

introduced the visiting councillor to the crowd

as the representative of the Rector Major for the

extraordinary visitation. From Tangla he

proceeded to Dimakuchi.

Dimakuchi: Fr. Basaes reached Dimakuchi in the

evening of 21st February, 2016, from Tangla Parish with a

halt at Sikaribangla village for a reception and interaction

with the villagers. On his arrival the confreres, the

parishioners, the Sisters and the hostel boys and girls of

Dimakuchi extended to him a warm welcome through the

traditional hand washing ceremony and by offering him

colourful scarves. Cultural dance troupes from

Borengajuli TE and Sonajuli village accompanied the

visitor from the gate of the presbytery to the felicitation

venue. Fr. Barnabas Mardi, Rector and Parish Priest,

introduced Fr.Basaes to the people, saying that he had

come in the name of the Rector Major for an extraordinary

visitation. Later, the visitor joined the community for the

community vespers. After spending two nights at

Dimakuchi, he left for Sirajuli at 3:00 pm of 23rd Feb.

My dear confreres,

We have just concluded the Extraordinary Visitation of the Province by

Fr. Guillermo Basaes, the General Councillor for the Missions. His visit

to the different centres of our province was a source of blessing for us, as

well as an encouragement to all of us engaged in the mission of our

province. The Extraordinary Visitation afforded us an opportunity to see

the growth in the province, the stability that has been achieved in our

works by the dynamism and enthusiasm of our confreres to carry forward

our mission, to acknowledge the pioneering contributions made by those

who preceded us in the mission, to find joy in the variety and quality of

our services that enable us to achieve the goals of our mission, and above

all to thank God Almighty for His many blessings to all of us in the

province. We bow our heads in loving gratitude before the Lord of all

goodness and blessings. Fr. Basaes in his final report to the Leaders of the province described the

confreres as enthusiastic, hard working and close to the poor. He congratulated the confreres for the

prayerful spirit in communities and said "I enjoyed the beautiful symphony of Don Bosco in the

province". During his meeting with leaders of communities he also highlighted areas of weakness

and proposed needed interventions for the growth and mission of the province. The interventions

should be seen as integral elements of our individual lives, seamlessly woven into the fabric that

constitutes our life and apostolate as religious.

The past couple of years have seen very significant developments in the life of the Church as a

whole and in the life of our congregation in particular. The Church world over celebrated the Year of

Consecrated Life in 2014-15, immediately following which our Holy Father Pope Francis declared

the Extraordinary Jubilee Year of Mercy as a special time for the Church. In addition our own

Congregation celebrated the bicentenary of the birth of Don Bosco, our father and founder. We are

called to gaze even more attentively on mercy so that we may become a more effective sign of the

Father's action in our lives and the witness of believers might grow stronger and more effective

(MV 3) is the message that Pope Francis gives right at the beginning of the papal document

Misericordiae Vultus (The Face of Mercy).

As our father and founder Don Bosco witnessed to the mercy of the Father to the needy youth of his

day, we are today called to be witnesses and agents of the Father's mercy for the needy youth of our

region. May the Spirit of the Lord always lead each of us along the way of mercy towards every one.

The power of the Spirit will help us live our lives in forgiveness always, not condemning or judging

anyone, at anytime, anywhere. May our lives always bear witness to the motto of the Extraordinary

Jubilee Year of Mercy: Be Merciful like the Father. Following the call of our Holy Father, I invite

each of you, dear confreres, to reflect on our lives as religious, persons who are called to be agents

and witnesses of mercy.

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4

Sirajuli: On his arrival on 23rd May, Fr.Basaes

was extended a warm welcome by the confreres and

the aspirants. At 7.15 pm he met the confreres in the

SDB room for evening prayer and an interactive

session. Fr. Thomas Lakra, the Rector, welcomed

the visitor in the name of the community and

presented a detailed report about the activities of the

community. On 24th morning, Fr. Basaes animated

the meditation and celebrated the Holy Mass. He

reminded those presenton the role of Mary in the life

of Don Bosco. The day was spent in interacting with

confreres. On 26th May the visitor left for DBSTI,

Tezpur.

DBSTI, Tezpur: Fr. Basaes reached DBSTI,

Tezpur, at 10.30 am on 26th February, 2016. The

Salesians, a group of Sisters, a group of young boys

and girls undergoing various skill trainings,

numbering 110, gave him a warm welcome. They

lined up along the road, singing and dancing, decked

up in multi-cultural dresses. The students washed the

hands of the visitor and welcomed him with

Assamese, Bodo and Karbi scarves, and an

Assamese japi. Fr. Alex Kattakayam, the Associate

Director, introduced the visitor to the gathering. The

felicitation programme was followed by tree

plantation to mark the occasion. The visitor then met

the Salesians. After spending there two full days, he

left for Mumbai. He returned to the province on 14th

March.

Kumarikatta: At 12.00 noon on 14th March

2016, Fr.Basaes was given a warm welcome by the

confreres, teachers and students on his arrival. There

was a traditional welcome from the gate to the pandal

with multi-cultural dance troupes which was

immediately followed by a cultural program. There

was a variety of programmes. There were welcome

speeches from Fr. Zacharias Minj, on behalf of the

school community and from Fr. Bhaskar Raj on

behalf of the Parish community. A student

representative read out the welcome address,

combining the history and development of the

school. At 3.30 pm there was a Community Prayer in

the Chapel, animated by Fr. Bhaskar Raj. The prayer

was followed by conference in the office of the

Rector. Having spent two days in the community, he

proceeded to visit the community of Sashipur.

Barpeta Road: From Sashipur Fr. Basaes

proceeded to Barpeta Road and reached there at

11.35 am on 17th March, 2016. He was received at

the railway station by boys dressed in variegated

jerseys with bicycles lined up on both sides of the

road to welcome him. The cyclists accompanied the

visitor till the entrance of the community. At the gate

of the school the confreres, teachers and students

welcomed the visitor. The brass band contingent in

elegant uniform performed for the visitor. Fr.Basaes

congratulated and thanked the Salesians, the teachers

and students for having organized the reception

programme. Hevisited the tomb of late Fr. Remus

Morra and prayed for his soul. After spending two

full days at the community, Fr. Basanes proceeded to

the community of Doomni.

Doomni: Fr. Basaes reached Doomni on 19th

March, at 5.30 pm, accompanied by Fr. Marcus Lakra

and Fr. Victor Tigga and two lay people from Barpeta

Road. There was a beautiful reception starting from

the entrance gate to the portico of the Church by the

Confreres, the Sisters, boarding boys and girls and

the faithful. The ritual washing of hands was done for

the visitor and he was welcomed with a gamosha. At

the portico of the Church, Fr.Basaes was given an

arati (incensing), a turban, a Boro aronai (scarf) and

an Adivasi jacket. Fr. Ethelbert Minj, the Parish

Priest, introduced the visitor to the people and

extended to him a warm welcome. From Doomni, Fr.

Basaes went to Guwahati to meet the young

confreres.

Amkachi: From Guwahati, Fr.Basaes visited

the community of Amkachi on 23rdMarch. He was

welcomed by the confreres and the SABSsisters. The

teachers and the students who were gathered to

felicitate the visitor welcomed him with a Tiwa

traditional jacket and a bouquet. Parish Priest and

Principal, Fr. Quirinus Syiemlieh, welcomed the

visitor to the parish. Amelodious choir piece, action

song by small children and a captivating Tiwa dance

were presented. Fr.Basaes gave away the prizes to

the winners of the Annual Sports conducted the

previous week. Leaving Amkachi on 25th March, the

visitor proceeded to Umswai.

Umswai: Fr. Basaes began his visitation to the

community of Umswai on Good Friday, 25th March

2016. On reaching Umswai, he was accorded a warm

welcome by Fr P.J. Thomas and the community

members. As he was informed that the Way of the

Cross was to start soon at Pundurimakha village, Fr.

5

20

16

JU

NE

Baithalangso

Diphu

sojong

Satgaon

Shallang

Boko

Haflong

Damra

NE

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E, G

UW

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I P

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VIN

CE

4

Sirajuli: On his arrival on 23rd May, Fr.Basaes

was extended a warm welcome by the confreres and

the aspirants. At 7.15 pm he met the confreres in the

SDB room for evening prayer and an interactive

session. Fr. Thomas Lakra, the Rector, welcomed

the visitor in the name of the community and

presented a detailed report about the activities of the

community. On 24th morning, Fr. Basaes animated

the meditation and celebrated the Holy Mass. He

reminded those presenton the role of Mary in the life

of Don Bosco. The day was spent in interacting with

confreres. On 26th May the visitor left for DBSTI,

Tezpur.

DBSTI, Tezpur: Fr. Basaes reached DBSTI,

Tezpur, at 10.30 am on 26th February, 2016. The

Salesians, a group of Sisters, a group of young boys

and girls undergoing various skill trainings,

numbering 110, gave him a warm welcome. They

lined up along the road, singing and dancing, decked

up in multi-cultural dresses. The students washed the

hands of the visitor and welcomed him with

Assamese, Bodo and Karbi scarves, and an

Assamese japi. Fr. Alex Kattakayam, the Associate

Director, introduced the visitor to the gathering. The

felicitation programme was followed by tree

plantation to mark the occasion. The visitor then met

the Salesians. After spending there two full days, he

left for Mumbai. He returned to the province on 14th

March.

Kumarikatta: At 12.00 noon on 14th March

2016, Fr.Basaes was given a warm welcome by the

confreres, teachers and students on his arrival. There

was a traditional welcome from the gate to the pandal

with multi-cultural dance troupes which was

immediately followed by a cultural program. There

was a variety of programmes. There were welcome

speeches from Fr. Zacharias Minj, on behalf of the

school community and from Fr. Bhaskar Raj on

behalf of the Parish community. A student

representative read out the welcome address,

combining the history and development of the

school. At 3.30 pm there was a Community Prayer in

the Chapel, animated by Fr. Bhaskar Raj. The prayer

was followed by conference in the office of the

Rector. Having spent two days in the community, he

proceeded to visit the community of Sashipur.

Barpeta Road: From Sashipur Fr. Basaes

proceeded to Barpeta Road and reached there at

11.35 am on 17th March, 2016. He was received at

the railway station by boys dressed in variegated

jerseys with bicycles lined up on both sides of the

road to welcome him. The cyclists accompanied the

visitor till the entrance of the community. At the gate

of the school the confreres, teachers and students

welcomed the visitor. The brass band contingent in

elegant uniform performed for the visitor. Fr.Basaes

congratulated and thanked the Salesians, the teachers

and students for having organized the reception

programme. Hevisited the tomb of late Fr. Remus

Morra and prayed for his soul. After spending two

full days at the community, Fr. Basanes proceeded to

the community of Doomni.

Doomni: Fr. Basaes reached Doomni on 19th

March, at 5.30 pm, accompanied by Fr. Marcus Lakra

and Fr. Victor Tigga and two lay people from Barpeta

Road. There was a beautiful reception starting from

the entrance gate to the portico of the Church by the

Confreres, the Sisters, boarding boys and girls and

the faithful. The ritual washing of hands was done for

the visitor and he was welcomed with a gamosha. At

the portico of the Church, Fr.Basaes was given an

arati (incensing), a turban, a Boro aronai (scarf) and

an Adivasi jacket. Fr. Ethelbert Minj, the Parish

Priest, introduced the visitor to the people and

extended to him a warm welcome. From Doomni, Fr.

Basaes went to Guwahati to meet the young

confreres.

Amkachi: From Guwahati, Fr.Basaes visited

the community of Amkachi on 23rdMarch. He was

welcomed by the confreres and the SABSsisters. The

teachers and the students who were gathered to

felicitate the visitor welcomed him with a Tiwa

traditional jacket and a bouquet. Parish Priest and

Principal, Fr. Quirinus Syiemlieh, welcomed the

visitor to the parish. Amelodious choir piece, action

song by small children and a captivating Tiwa dance

were presented. Fr.Basaes gave away the prizes to

the winners of the Annual Sports conducted the

previous week. Leaving Amkachi on 25th March, the

visitor proceeded to Umswai.

Umswai: Fr. Basaes began his visitation to the

community of Umswai on Good Friday, 25th March

2016. On reaching Umswai, he was accorded a warm

welcome by Fr P.J. Thomas and the community

members. As he was informed that the Way of the

Cross was to start soon at Pundurimakha village, Fr.

5

20

16

JU

NE

Baithalangso

Diphu

sojong

Satgaon

Shallang

Boko

Haflong

Damra

76

20

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Basaes lost no time in getting ready and rushed to the

village to join the faithful for the Way of the Cross. It

was rather long, but the visitor witnessed the active

participation by the parishioners. On returning after

the Way of the Cross, the visitor met the Salesians and

began the formal visitation. Having met all the

Salesians and the teaching community Fr.Basaes

preceded after his two days stay there to visit Sojong.

Sojong: Leaving Umswai by 3.30 pm, Fr. Basaes

reached Sojong at 6.40 pm, on 27th March, 2016. On

his arrival, all the seven confreres, the AC Sisters and

the boarding boys and girls were there to welcome

him. There was a short felicitation programme at the

portico of the Church. There were welcome songs by

boarding boys and girls separately, and a Hindi dance.

Fr. Lucas Marak, Rector and Parish Priest, introduced

the visitor to the community and welcomed him with

a Karbi muffler and a bouquet.

Diphu: Leaving Sojong at 3.15 pm, Fr. Basaes

reached Don Bosco Junior College, Diphu on 30th

March, 2016, at 6.00 pm. On his arrival, the

Confreres and the hostel boys welcomed him with a

Karbi scarf and a welcome song. Soon after wash and

tea, there was evening prayer in the office of the

Director. It was immediately followed by a

conference.At the conference Fr. V.A. Cyriac, the

Director, welcomed Fr. Basaes to the community

and then presented to him the details about the Junior

College, its history, gradual development, future

growth prospects, animation and extension services

and the life of the Salesian community with regard to

different aspects of a Salesian religious community.

Haflong: Leaving Don Bosco Junior College,

Diphu, and passing through Lumding, Maibang and

Mahur, Fr. Basaes reached Haflong in the evening of

1st April, 2016. On his arrival the confreres and the

hostel boys, lined up in two rows, extended to him a

warm welcome. They presented him a Dimasa scarf

and sang a welcome song. Fr. Basaes thanked them

for their gesture of love and affection. At the

beginning, Fr. Emmanuel Marngar introduced him to

those gathered as the one coming in the name of the

Rector Major. Fr.Basaes extended the love and

warm wishes of the Rector Major to the gathering and

told them that he was very close to them. After the

felicitation programme the visiting councillor joined

the confreres for dinner. From Haflong, the visitor

went back to Guwahati.

Boko: In the morning of 5th April, Fr. Basaes

left Guwahati for Boko. In Boko he was received by

the confreres, teachers and students who were

gathered there to welcome him. Fr. Vincent Xalxo,

the Rector, welcomed the visitor and spoke to those

gathered together about the purpose of the

visitation. Fr. Basaes spent two days at Boko,

meeting the confreres and the teaching community.

On 8th April, he proceeded to Damra.

Damra: Leaving Boko by 8.30 am, Fr. Basaes

reached Don Bosco, Damra at 9.30 am on 7th April,

2016. The students, parents and the faithful of

Damra lined up from a little away from the entrance

gate to the Church. There were three groups of

traditional dancers, namely, the Garo Dancers, the

Bodo Dancers and the Rabha Dancers, all in their

traditional attire. There was the traditional washing

of hands as a sign of welcome, then a Bodo scarf, a

Rabha jacket and a Garo headgear were presented to

the visitor. The confreres and the Sisters were there

to welcome Fr. Basaes. Leaving Damra on 9th

April he proceeded towards Shallang mission.

Shallang: Fr. Basaes visited Catholic Church,

Shallang, on 9th April, 2016. On his arrival he met

the three confreres, the Sisters, teachers, students,

scouts and guides and the lay faithful who had lined

up from the gate to the presbytery to receive him. He

was accorded a warm welcome with a bouquet, a

badge and a scout salute. Soon after tea, Fr.Basaes

inaugurated and blessed the new School Library. He

congratulated the management for providing a good

library to the school. It is a sign of growth and

progress of the school. He thanked the confreres for

the hard work in giving the best to the young

students. After two days he left for Rongjeng.

Rongjeng: Fr. Basaes reached Holy Family

Parish, Rongjeng, at 9.40 am on 11th April, 2016.

The students welcomed the visitor from the main

road to the presbytery. The Salesians of Rongjeng,

the Sisters, teachers and the parishioners welcomed

Fr.Basaes at the entrance of the house. At 10.15 am

he addressed the confreres in the office of the

Rector, by way of inaugurating the visitation. Fr.

Charles Sangma, the Rector, led the Salesians in

prayer. Fr.Basaes placed on record his

congratulations and thanks for the grand reception

accorded to him. On 13th April he left for Bosco

Mount, Rongkhon.

Karbirongsopi

Udalguri

Gojapara

Tura

Bhooteachang

Provincial HouseKokrajhar

76

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Basaes lost no time in getting ready and rushed to the

village to join the faithful for the Way of the Cross. It

was rather long, but the visitor witnessed the active

participation by the parishioners. On returning after

the Way of the Cross, the visitor met the Salesians and

began the formal visitation. Having met all the

Salesians and the teaching community Fr.Basaes

preceded after his two days stay there to visit Sojong.

Sojong: Leaving Umswai by 3.30 pm, Fr. Basaes

reached Sojong at 6.40 pm, on 27th March, 2016. On

his arrival, all the seven confreres, the AC Sisters and

the boarding boys and girls were there to welcome

him. There was a short felicitation programme at the

portico of the Church. There were welcome songs by

boarding boys and girls separately, and a Hindi dance.

Fr. Lucas Marak, Rector and Parish Priest, introduced

the visitor to the community and welcomed him with

a Karbi muffler and a bouquet.

Diphu: Leaving Sojong at 3.15 pm, Fr. Basaes

reached Don Bosco Junior College, Diphu on 30th

March, 2016, at 6.00 pm. On his arrival, the

Confreres and the hostel boys welcomed him with a

Karbi scarf and a welcome song. Soon after wash and

tea, there was evening prayer in the office of the

Director. It was immediately followed by a

conference.At the conference Fr. V.A. Cyriac, the

Director, welcomed Fr. Basaes to the community

and then presented to him the details about the Junior

College, its history, gradual development, future

growth prospects, animation and extension services

and the life of the Salesian community with regard to

different aspects of a Salesian religious community.

Haflong: Leaving Don Bosco Junior College,

Diphu, and passing through Lumding, Maibang and

Mahur, Fr. Basaes reached Haflong in the evening of

1st April, 2016. On his arrival the confreres and the

hostel boys, lined up in two rows, extended to him a

warm welcome. They presented him a Dimasa scarf

and sang a welcome song. Fr. Basaes thanked them

for their gesture of love and affection. At the

beginning, Fr. Emmanuel Marngar introduced him to

those gathered as the one coming in the name of the

Rector Major. Fr.Basaes extended the love and

warm wishes of the Rector Major to the gathering and

told them that he was very close to them. After the

felicitation programme the visiting councillor joined

the confreres for dinner. From Haflong, the visitor

went back to Guwahati.

Boko: In the morning of 5th April, Fr. Basaes

left Guwahati for Boko. In Boko he was received by

the confreres, teachers and students who were

gathered there to welcome him. Fr. Vincent Xalxo,

the Rector, welcomed the visitor and spoke to those

gathered together about the purpose of the

visitation. Fr. Basaes spent two days at Boko,

meeting the confreres and the teaching community.

On 8th April, he proceeded to Damra.

Damra: Leaving Boko by 8.30 am, Fr. Basaes

reached Don Bosco, Damra at 9.30 am on 7th April,

2016. The students, parents and the faithful of

Damra lined up from a little away from the entrance

gate to the Church. There were three groups of

traditional dancers, namely, the Garo Dancers, the

Bodo Dancers and the Rabha Dancers, all in their

traditional attire. There was the traditional washing

of hands as a sign of welcome, then a Bodo scarf, a

Rabha jacket and a Garo headgear were presented to

the visitor. The confreres and the Sisters were there

to welcome Fr. Basaes. Leaving Damra on 9th

April he proceeded towards Shallang mission.

Shallang: Fr. Basaes visited Catholic Church,

Shallang, on 9th April, 2016. On his arrival he met

the three confreres, the Sisters, teachers, students,

scouts and guides and the lay faithful who had lined

up from the gate to the presbytery to receive him. He

was accorded a warm welcome with a bouquet, a

badge and a scout salute. Soon after tea, Fr.Basaes

inaugurated and blessed the new School Library. He

congratulated the management for providing a good

library to the school. It is a sign of growth and

progress of the school. He thanked the confreres for

the hard work in giving the best to the young

students. After two days he left for Rongjeng.

Rongjeng: Fr. Basaes reached Holy Family

Parish, Rongjeng, at 9.40 am on 11th April, 2016.

The students welcomed the visitor from the main

road to the presbytery. The Salesians of Rongjeng,

the Sisters, teachers and the parishioners welcomed

Fr.Basaes at the entrance of the house. At 10.15 am

he addressed the confreres in the office of the

Rector, by way of inaugurating the visitation. Fr.

Charles Sangma, the Rector, led the Salesians in

prayer. Fr.Basaes placed on record his

congratulations and thanks for the grand reception

accorded to him. On 13th April he left for Bosco

Mount, Rongkhon.

Karbirongsopi

Udalguri

Gojapara

Tura

Bhooteachang

Provincial HouseKokrajhar

8 9

Bosco Mount & Rongkhon Parish: Fr.

Basaes reached Bosco Mount, Rongkhon, at 12.00

noon on 13th April. As he arrived, he met the Rector

and other confreres along with the Class XII

students, the preparatory students and the vocation

camp boys at the entrance of the house. There was a

short felicitation there. Fr. Basaes was welcomed

with the traditional Garo muffler, an Assamese

gamosha, a Garo necklace (rigitok) and the musical

band. Fr. CA John introduced Fr. Basaes to the

community and expressed words of welcome. In his

short talk Fr. Basaes thanked the community for the

warm welcome accorded to him. In a nutshell, Fr.

Basaes described the adventurous journey from

Ronjeng to Bosco Mount. He said, Bosco Mount is a

wonderful place because our father and founder Don

Bosco too was born and brought up in the hillock

commonly known as Becchi. Fr.Basaes visited

the cemetery and prayed for the confreres who were

buried there. During this time he also visited

Rongkhon Parish. On 16th April, the visitor left for

Don Bosco College, Tura.

Boys' Home, Tura: Fr.Basaesreached Don

Bosco Boys' Home, Tura from Don Bosco College,

Tura,at 6.15 pm on 20th April, 2016. As he reached

the place, the confreres and hostel children were

there to welcome him witha welcome song. The

visitor was presented with a Garo muffler and a

bouquet. Fr. Albert Thyrniang, the Rector,

introduced Fr.Basaes to the community and

extended to him a warm welcome. Cl. Kujur Nilam

Roshan read the welcome address to Fr.Basaes. In

his short talk, the visitor said that he already felt at

home as the community is known as 'Don Bosco

Boys' Home.' Fr.Basaes thanked the community for

the cordial welcome. The reception concluded with a

traditional Garo song. At 7.00 pm the community

gathered in the SDB Room for evening prayer and

the inauguration of the extraordinary visitation. On

22nd April, Fr. Basaes proceeded to Garobadha.

Garobadha: Starting from Don Bosco School,

Tura Fr. Basaes reached Garobadha Parish in the

evening of 22nd April, 2016. As he reached the plain

area there stood a big welcome gate with large

number of students and Catholic faithful waiting to

welcome him. No sooner did he get down from the

car thanthe crowd thronged to welcome him, with

students singing the welcome song. The students

presented a Garo kotip (headgear), a rikgitok

(necklace) and a bouquet. Fr Basaes wished the

people, took photos with them and then proceeded

towards the Parish house.

As he reached the Mission compound, he was

welcomed by the confreres, the FMA Sisters,

boarding children, Salesian Cooperators, the

parishioners and lay leaders. The Garo Wangala

dancers took him from the gate to the Parish house.

They sang a welcome song and presented him a Garo

muffler. He thanked them and wished them and then

went for tea with all the confreres, Sisters, Salesian

Cooperators and lay leaders. On 24th April Fr.

Basaes left Garobadha for Mendal community.

Mendal: Fr. Basaes reached Don Bosco Mendal

at 6.00 pm on 24th May, 2016. The Salesians, the

Sisters, the hostel boys and girls, the youth and the

parishioners were at the gate waiting for him. On his

arrival he was welcomed him with a Garo jacket, a

muffler, headgear, rikgitok and a bouquet of flowers.

He was then taken to the Parish house by the Garo

Wangala dancers with students lining up on both

sides of the road. Fr. Amit Lakra, the Rector and

Parish Priest, introduced Fr.Basaes to the people

and welcomed him in the name of the people gathered

there to welcome him. From Mendal, the visitor

proceeded to Gojapara.

Amguri & Kokrajhar: On the way from

Gojapara to Kokrajhar, Fr. Basaes dropped in at Don

Bosco School, Amguri at 10.45 am on 28th April,

2016. He was welcomed at the gate with a hand

washing ritual. Fr. Ignatius Gari, Deputy Director of

DBI, was present to welcome the visitor.

At Kokrajhar Fr. Basaes had a wonderful reception

from the gate to the entrance of the house,

accompanied by the Salesians of the community. He

was presented with a Bodo aronai. He planted a

mango sapling at the entrance of the school. Students

lined up on both the sides of the entrance with

balloons in hands, waving joyfully to welcome the

visitor. Fr. Damian Basumatary, the Rector,

introduced Fr. Basaes to the teachers and students

and explained the purpose of the visitation. From

Kokrajhar, Fr. Basaes visited the Dotma community

and the pre-novitiate house.

Bengtol: Leaving Dotma by 3.40 pm, Fr. Basaes

reached Bengtol Mission at 4.45 pm on 3rd May,

2016, accompanied by confreres of Ramfalbil. As he

got out of the car he met the confreres, the Sisters,

teachers and lay leaders. He was warmly welcomed

with the traditional hand washing ceremony and arati

(incensing). The Bodo women, dancing to the tune of

their traditional music and song, and dressed in their

cultural attire welcomed Fr.Basaes. The hostel boys

and girls and the faithful lined up on both sides of the

road, singing welcome songs and waving flags. Fr.

Siby Vattaparayil introduced Fr. Basaes to those

gathered there and presented him with a Bodo aronai

(muffler). On 5th May Fr Basaes proceeded to Don

Bosco Centre, Bongaigaon, for the extraordinary

visitation.

BRO: Fr. Basaes reached Bosco Reach Out (BRO)

at 6.45 pm on 16th May, 2016 for the extraordinary

visitation. He met the Salesians and the CESP and

ISCDP Staff. They sang a welcome song, presented

him a gamosha and a bouquet of flowers. Fr. KJ

Thomas welcomed and introduced the visitor to the

gathering, saying that he had come in the name of the

Rector Major. On 18th May, the visitor concluded the

visitation of BRO community and proceeded to Don

Bosco Institute, Kharghuli.

DBI: Fr. Basaes received a grand welcome on

18th May at the Rhino Square of DBI. He addressed

the students who were gathered there at 10:50 am to

welcome him. While addressing them he said that

he was happy to visit the institute and to be part of

the Salesian work in the institute. He lauded the

students at the way they welcomed him. I am

happy that you sing so loud and this is a sign of

happiness and satisfaction. I am glad that you are

happy here, he added. He exhorted the students to

love Don Bosco and to learn from each other. He

was surprised when he got a loud response We

Love Don Bosco. Having met the confreres and

having addressed the teaching faculty, the visitor

took leave on 20th May and proceeded towards the

provincial house for the visitation of the

community.

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Fr. Guillermo Basaes interacts

with Brothers in Initial Formation

-Cl.Tirkey John Paul

On 22nd March 2016, fourtysix Brothers in initial

formation had an interactive session with Fr.

Basaes, General Councillor for the Missions. Fr.

V.M. Thomas, Provincial, gave a short introduction

and welcomed Fr. Basaes as well as the Brothers

gathered for the interactive session.

The meeting began with a brief input session by Fr.

Basaes. After the input session he asked the

Confreres two pertinent questions: (a) What is your

happiest experience as a Salesian? and (b) What is the

most painful experience as a Salesian? The Brothers

shared their experiences frankly with the group. Fr.

Basaes concluded the morning session with a short

reflection wherein he invited all the young confreres to

be more positive in their outlook towards the

problems of the communities. In the afternoon

session, Fr. Basaes asked the young confreres two

questions: (a) What do you love about Guwahati

Province? and (b) What changes do you want to see

in the Province? Fr. Basaes concluded the session

by encouraging the young confreres to speak out

their ideas and opinions to the older confreres and

contribute to the community in the best way one

can.

The interactive sessions with Fr. Basaes concluded

with the exhortation to make the best use of the

initial formation days to become Salesians after the

heart of Don Bosco.

8 9

Bosco Mount & Rongkhon Parish: Fr.

Basaes reached Bosco Mount, Rongkhon, at 12.00

noon on 13th April. As he arrived, he met the Rector

and other confreres along with the Class XII

students, the preparatory students and the vocation

camp boys at the entrance of the house. There was a

short felicitation there. Fr. Basaes was welcomed

with the traditional Garo muffler, an Assamese

gamosha, a Garo necklace (rigitok) and the musical

band. Fr. CA John introduced Fr. Basaes to the

community and expressed words of welcome. In his

short talk Fr. Basaes thanked the community for the

warm welcome accorded to him. In a nutshell, Fr.

Basaes described the adventurous journey from

Ronjeng to Bosco Mount. He said, Bosco Mount is a

wonderful place because our father and founder Don

Bosco too was born and brought up in the hillock

commonly known as Becchi. Fr.Basaes visited

the cemetery and prayed for the confreres who were

buried there. During this time he also visited

Rongkhon Parish. On 16th April, the visitor left for

Don Bosco College, Tura.

Boys' Home, Tura: Fr.Basaesreached Don

Bosco Boys' Home, Tura from Don Bosco College,

Tura,at 6.15 pm on 20th April, 2016. As he reached

the place, the confreres and hostel children were

there to welcome him witha welcome song. The

visitor was presented with a Garo muffler and a

bouquet. Fr. Albert Thyrniang, the Rector,

introduced Fr.Basaes to the community and

extended to him a warm welcome. Cl. Kujur Nilam

Roshan read the welcome address to Fr.Basaes. In

his short talk, the visitor said that he already felt at

home as the community is known as 'Don Bosco

Boys' Home.' Fr.Basaes thanked the community for

the cordial welcome. The reception concluded with a

traditional Garo song. At 7.00 pm the community

gathered in the SDB Room for evening prayer and

the inauguration of the extraordinary visitation. On

22nd April, Fr. Basaes proceeded to Garobadha.

Garobadha: Starting from Don Bosco School,

Tura Fr. Basaes reached Garobadha Parish in the

evening of 22nd April, 2016. As he reached the plain

area there stood a big welcome gate with large

number of students and Catholic faithful waiting to

welcome him. No sooner did he get down from the

car thanthe crowd thronged to welcome him, with

students singing the welcome song. The students

presented a Garo kotip (headgear), a rikgitok

(necklace) and a bouquet. Fr Basaes wished the

people, took photos with them and then proceeded

towards the Parish house.

As he reached the Mission compound, he was

welcomed by the confreres, the FMA Sisters,

boarding children, Salesian Cooperators, the

parishioners and lay leaders. The Garo Wangala

dancers took him from the gate to the Parish house.

They sang a welcome song and presented him a Garo

muffler. He thanked them and wished them and then

went for tea with all the confreres, Sisters, Salesian

Cooperators and lay leaders. On 24th April Fr.

Basaes left Garobadha for Mendal community.

Mendal: Fr. Basaes reached Don Bosco Mendal

at 6.00 pm on 24th May, 2016. The Salesians, the

Sisters, the hostel boys and girls, the youth and the

parishioners were at the gate waiting for him. On his

arrival he was welcomed him with a Garo jacket, a

muffler, headgear, rikgitok and a bouquet of flowers.

He was then taken to the Parish house by the Garo

Wangala dancers with students lining up on both

sides of the road. Fr. Amit Lakra, the Rector and

Parish Priest, introduced Fr.Basaes to the people

and welcomed him in the name of the people gathered

there to welcome him. From Mendal, the visitor

proceeded to Gojapara.

Amguri & Kokrajhar: On the way from

Gojapara to Kokrajhar, Fr. Basaes dropped in at Don

Bosco School, Amguri at 10.45 am on 28th April,

2016. He was welcomed at the gate with a hand

washing ritual. Fr. Ignatius Gari, Deputy Director of

DBI, was present to welcome the visitor.

At Kokrajhar Fr. Basaes had a wonderful reception

from the gate to the entrance of the house,

accompanied by the Salesians of the community. He

was presented with a Bodo aronai. He planted a

mango sapling at the entrance of the school. Students

lined up on both the sides of the entrance with

balloons in hands, waving joyfully to welcome the

visitor. Fr. Damian Basumatary, the Rector,

introduced Fr. Basaes to the teachers and students

and explained the purpose of the visitation. From

Kokrajhar, Fr. Basaes visited the Dotma community

and the pre-novitiate house.

Bengtol: Leaving Dotma by 3.40 pm, Fr. Basaes

reached Bengtol Mission at 4.45 pm on 3rd May,

2016, accompanied by confreres of Ramfalbil. As he

got out of the car he met the confreres, the Sisters,

teachers and lay leaders. He was warmly welcomed

with the traditional hand washing ceremony and arati

(incensing). The Bodo women, dancing to the tune of

their traditional music and song, and dressed in their

cultural attire welcomed Fr.Basaes. The hostel boys

and girls and the faithful lined up on both sides of the

road, singing welcome songs and waving flags. Fr.

Siby Vattaparayil introduced Fr. Basaes to those

gathered there and presented him with a Bodo aronai

(muffler). On 5th May Fr Basaes proceeded to Don

Bosco Centre, Bongaigaon, for the extraordinary

visitation.

BRO: Fr. Basaes reached Bosco Reach Out (BRO)

at 6.45 pm on 16th May, 2016 for the extraordinary

visitation. He met the Salesians and the CESP and

ISCDP Staff. They sang a welcome song, presented

him a gamosha and a bouquet of flowers. Fr. KJ

Thomas welcomed and introduced the visitor to the

gathering, saying that he had come in the name of the

Rector Major. On 18th May, the visitor concluded the

visitation of BRO community and proceeded to Don

Bosco Institute, Kharghuli.

DBI: Fr. Basaes received a grand welcome on

18th May at the Rhino Square of DBI. He addressed

the students who were gathered there at 10:50 am to

welcome him. While addressing them he said that

he was happy to visit the institute and to be part of

the Salesian work in the institute. He lauded the

students at the way they welcomed him. I am

happy that you sing so loud and this is a sign of

happiness and satisfaction. I am glad that you are

happy here, he added. He exhorted the students to

love Don Bosco and to learn from each other. He

was surprised when he got a loud response We

Love Don Bosco. Having met the confreres and

having addressed the teaching faculty, the visitor

took leave on 20th May and proceeded towards the

provincial house for the visitation of the

community.

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Fr. Guillermo Basaes interacts

with Brothers in Initial Formation

-Cl.Tirkey John Paul

On 22nd March 2016, fourtysix Brothers in initial

formation had an interactive session with Fr.

Basaes, General Councillor for the Missions. Fr.

V.M. Thomas, Provincial, gave a short introduction

and welcomed Fr. Basaes as well as the Brothers

gathered for the interactive session.

The meeting began with a brief input session by Fr.

Basaes. After the input session he asked the

Confreres two pertinent questions: (a) What is your

happiest experience as a Salesian? and (b) What is the

most painful experience as a Salesian? The Brothers

shared their experiences frankly with the group. Fr.

Basaes concluded the morning session with a short

reflection wherein he invited all the young confreres to

be more positive in their outlook towards the

problems of the communities. In the afternoon

session, Fr. Basaes asked the young confreres two

questions: (a) What do you love about Guwahati

Province? and (b) What changes do you want to see

in the Province? Fr. Basaes concluded the session

by encouraging the young confreres to speak out

their ideas and opinions to the older confreres and

contribute to the community in the best way one

can.

The interactive sessions with Fr. Basaes concluded

with the exhortation to make the best use of the

initial formation days to become Salesians after the

heart of Don Bosco.

10 11

Fr Guillermo Basaes celebrates Holi with Underprivileged Kids

- Fr. Kujur Thadeus

With the aim of adding colours of fun and

shades of joy to the lives of the unprivileged

kids of the city, Child Friendly Guwahati (CFG)

joined together to celebrate the vibrant festival of

Holi on 22nd March, at Don Bosco Tech. School,

Maligaon. Fr. Basaes too joined the children in the

celebration of the festival of colours.

The children participated with zest in joyful dances.

Exciting games followed, after the children were

satiated with snacks. The finale holi celebrations

brought immense fun as delighted children coloured

not only their friends, but their teachers in the joyous

hues of holi. Fr. Basaes wished that the festival of

colours bring prosperity to the nation.

Fr. Guillermo Basaes SDB

concludes the Extraordinary

Visitation of the Province

- NEWSLINE Correspondent

Rev. Fr Guillermo Basaes, SDB General Councillor for the Missions, began the Extraordinary Visitation of the Province of Guwahati

in the name of the Rector Major, Fr Angel Fernandez

Artime on 19 February 2016 with the inaugural Mass

and conference at the Mario Hall, Provincial house,

Panbazar. After three months of visiting the houses

and personal tete-a-tete with the confreres, he

concluded the extraordinary visitation on 25 May

with a meeting with the Rectors and the Parish Priests

of the province.

On 22 May 2016, he concluded the visit of the

Provincial House community and spent the last two

days preparing the report and the evaluation on the

state of the province. Fr Basaes addressed the

members of the provincial council and shared his

evaluation of the Province with them on 23 May

2016. On 24 May 2016, the visitor met the Salesian

family members. He addressed those present and

asked them to work together in close collaboration as

members of the family. On 25 May, at 11:00 am, Fr

Salesian Family Members meet

Fr. Basaes

- Fr. Teron Joseph

On 23rd May, the visiting General Councillor for

the Missions, Rev Fr Guillermo Basaes, met

the members of the Salesian family in the Provincial

House, Panbazar, and interacted with them. The

meeting was also attended by Sr. Lucy Rose

Ozhukayil, FMA General Councillor, Rome, who

was on a canonical visitation to the FMA province of

Guwahati.

Fr VM Thomas, provincial, said that the coming

together of the Salesian family members is to express

gratitude to the general councilor for the committed

and dedicated service that he offered to the province.

This is a moment when we thank Fr Basaes for the

dedicated service rendered to the congregation and in

particular for accepting to be the extraordinary visitor

to the province. The meeting concluded with a

fraternal meal.

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Basaes met the rectors, parish priests and leaders of

communities and presented the report of the visitation

to the gathering, including the provincial council

members.

During the interaction with leaders of communities,

Fr Basaes stressed on the need to maintain the sense

of the holy in communities and asked each confrere to

become spiritual person. Spirituality in communities

should be given utmost care, especially of younger

confreres, the visitor said. He encouraged the head

of institutions to remember that

R e c t o r s w e r e c h o s e n i n

consultation with the Rector

Major and their role is important

as heads of the community. You

are the fatherly figure in

community and so you need to

show that the confreres are loved

by you. The visitor added that

daily assistance and Salesian

presence should be encouraged

among the younger confreres with

the youth in our presences.

Father VM Thomas, Provincial, thanked the Rector

Major for sending Fr Basaes as the extraordinary

visitor. He thanked Fr Basaes for taking a keen

interest to listen to individual confrere, for the

friendly ways of creating communion and for the

focused evaluation of Salesian life and mission in

the Province. A special Assamese pholan gamocha

was offered to Fr Basaes by Fr Provincial.

Fr. Thomas Punnolikunnel

celebrates Golden and Diamond

Jubilee

- Fr. Anikuzhikattil Tomy

On 17th April 2016, Rev Fr. Thomas

Punnolikunnel, Asst. Parish Priest of Umswai

Parish, celebrated his Golden Jubilee of ordination

and Diamond Jubilee of religious profession at

Umswai Parish, amidst the picturesque hills of Karbi

Anglong district of Assam. The jubilee mass was

celebrated by the jubilarian himself and he was

joined by Rev. Fr. VM Thomas, Provincial and Rev

Fr. George Maliekal, Provincial of the Salesian

province of Silchar. A large number of priests and

religious and parishioners were also present to

shower their love and blessings upon their beloved

priest.

In his homily, the humble Fr. Thomas, lovingly

called Good Fr. PJ said that the Jubilee Mass is

offered in thanksgiving to God. God is the focus of

our thanks. We thank God for being who He is.He

also said that the essence of priesthood is to be of

service to others. On the day of my ordination,

above all, I recognized that my Priesthood was not

for myself but for others and that it was to be a life of

service to the People of God. For that I dedicated my

life.

After the Mass, a cultural programmme was also

organized to entertain everyone present there. In

their respective speeches, both the Provincials

lauded the selfless sacrifice of Fr. PJ Thomas as a

priest and how he continues to be an example for

others to emulate. It must be mentioned here that Fr.

PJ Thomas was ordained a priest on April 17, 1966

at Shillong.

10 11

Fr Guillermo Basaes celebrates Holi with Underprivileged Kids

- Fr. Kujur Thadeus

With the aim of adding colours of fun and

shades of joy to the lives of the unprivileged

kids of the city, Child Friendly Guwahati (CFG)

joined together to celebrate the vibrant festival of

Holi on 22nd March, at Don Bosco Tech. School,

Maligaon. Fr. Basaes too joined the children in the

celebration of the festival of colours.

The children participated with zest in joyful dances.

Exciting games followed, after the children were

satiated with snacks. The finale holi celebrations

brought immense fun as delighted children coloured

not only their friends, but their teachers in the joyous

hues of holi. Fr. Basaes wished that the festival of

colours bring prosperity to the nation.

Fr. Guillermo Basaes SDB

concludes the Extraordinary

Visitation of the Province

- NEWSLINE Correspondent

Rev. Fr Guillermo Basaes, SDB General Councillor for the Missions, began the Extraordinary Visitation of the Province of Guwahati

in the name of the Rector Major, Fr Angel Fernandez

Artime on 19 February 2016 with the inaugural Mass

and conference at the Mario Hall, Provincial house,

Panbazar. After three months of visiting the houses

and personal tete-a-tete with the confreres, he

concluded the extraordinary visitation on 25 May

with a meeting with the Rectors and the Parish Priests

of the province.

On 22 May 2016, he concluded the visit of the

Provincial House community and spent the last two

days preparing the report and the evaluation on the

state of the province. Fr Basaes addressed the

members of the provincial council and shared his

evaluation of the Province with them on 23 May

2016. On 24 May 2016, the visitor met the Salesian

family members. He addressed those present and

asked them to work together in close collaboration as

members of the family. On 25 May, at 11:00 am, Fr

Salesian Family Members meet

Fr. Basaes

- Fr. Teron Joseph

On 23rd May, the visiting General Councillor for

the Missions, Rev Fr Guillermo Basaes, met

the members of the Salesian family in the Provincial

House, Panbazar, and interacted with them. The

meeting was also attended by Sr. Lucy Rose

Ozhukayil, FMA General Councillor, Rome, who

was on a canonical visitation to the FMA province of

Guwahati.

Fr VM Thomas, provincial, said that the coming

together of the Salesian family members is to express

gratitude to the general councilor for the committed

and dedicated service that he offered to the province.

This is a moment when we thank Fr Basaes for the

dedicated service rendered to the congregation and in

particular for accepting to be the extraordinary visitor

to the province. The meeting concluded with a

fraternal meal.

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Basaes met the rectors, parish priests and leaders of

communities and presented the report of the visitation

to the gathering, including the provincial council

members.

During the interaction with leaders of communities,

Fr Basaes stressed on the need to maintain the sense

of the holy in communities and asked each confrere to

become spiritual person. Spirituality in communities

should be given utmost care, especially of younger

confreres, the visitor said. He encouraged the head

of institutions to remember that

R e c t o r s w e r e c h o s e n i n

consultation with the Rector

Major and their role is important

as heads of the community. You

are the fatherly figure in

community and so you need to

show that the confreres are loved

by you. The visitor added that

daily assistance and Salesian

presence should be encouraged

among the younger confreres with

the youth in our presences.

Father VM Thomas, Provincial, thanked the Rector

Major for sending Fr Basaes as the extraordinary

visitor. He thanked Fr Basaes for taking a keen

interest to listen to individual confrere, for the

friendly ways of creating communion and for the

focused evaluation of Salesian life and mission in

the Province. A special Assamese pholan gamocha

was offered to Fr Basaes by Fr Provincial.

Fr. Thomas Punnolikunnel

celebrates Golden and Diamond

Jubilee

- Fr. Anikuzhikattil Tomy

On 17th April 2016, Rev Fr. Thomas

Punnolikunnel, Asst. Parish Priest of Umswai

Parish, celebrated his Golden Jubilee of ordination

and Diamond Jubilee of religious profession at

Umswai Parish, amidst the picturesque hills of Karbi

Anglong district of Assam. The jubilee mass was

celebrated by the jubilarian himself and he was

joined by Rev. Fr. VM Thomas, Provincial and Rev

Fr. George Maliekal, Provincial of the Salesian

province of Silchar. A large number of priests and

religious and parishioners were also present to

shower their love and blessings upon their beloved

priest.

In his homily, the humble Fr. Thomas, lovingly

called Good Fr. PJ said that the Jubilee Mass is

offered in thanksgiving to God. God is the focus of

our thanks. We thank God for being who He is.He

also said that the essence of priesthood is to be of

service to others. On the day of my ordination,

above all, I recognized that my Priesthood was not

for myself but for others and that it was to be a life of

service to the People of God. For that I dedicated my

life.

After the Mass, a cultural programmme was also

organized to entertain everyone present there. In

their respective speeches, both the Provincials

lauded the selfless sacrifice of Fr. PJ Thomas as a

priest and how he continues to be an example for

others to emulate. It must be mentioned here that Fr.

PJ Thomas was ordained a priest on April 17, 1966

at Shillong.

12 13

If I can

stop one heart from

breaking, I shall not live

in vain; if I can ease one life

the aching, or cool one pain, or

help one fainting robin, unto his

nest again, I shall not live in vain. These

lines from a poem by Emily Dickinson holds true to

describe the life of Father Sylvanus Sngi Lyngdoh

whom thousands gave a tearful adieu on Monday.

Father Sngi (95) breathed his last on the wee hours of

Saturday 28th May at Nazareth hospital. The love

people have had towards him for his humble and

multi-faceted personality could be seen as thousands

of people paid their last respects to him. Some

remembered him for having prayed for them or their

loved ones and noted personalities recounted him as

a son of the soil. On Monday his mortal remains

were taken from Sacred Heart Theological College,

Mawlai to Laitumkhrah Cathedral for Catholic

faithful coming from different parts of Khasi

Jaintia Hills region to pay their last tribute to the

religious legend before being taken to the cemetery.

The premises of the Cathedral of Mary Help of

Christians was overfilled with thousands of people

both from rural and urban areas as they remembered

him not only as the stalwart personality of the

Catholic Church but as a person who was known to

political circles and pressure groups as their mentor.

Speaking to reporters, Archbishop of Shillong

Archdiocese, Dominic Jala SDB said, He told us in

his deathbed that he yearned to live longer as he had

over 30 more books to complete. Recounting a

chronicle of his journey as a priest who went on to

become the most sought after person who expounded

Scriptural studies, Archbishop Jala said, He was a

brilliant person who felt that the Khasi-Jaintia

community needed him and he wanted to

be remembered as a teacher. He

a d d e d t h a t t h e r e w e r e

numerous scholarly books to

his credit and that he would be

remembered for his teachings and

literary works and socio-political

involvements especially in Ri-Bhoi. He laid

the foundation of the coalition government in the

state, sadly it did not give the desired results, he said.

Many people were healed due to his prayers and the

people are here to pay their solemn respects to him,

he added.

Archbishop Jala observed that Fr Sngi had

envisioned that the Khasi-Jaintia community should

not be deprived of good education which prompted

him to write many books. He recounted late Fr Sngi's

words who said that an educated community endures.

Speaking during the mass service, Shri. DD Lapang,

advisor to the State government, called him a

morning star of the Khasi-Jaintia community and

said, His death is a great loss to the poor and

downtrodden and he was noted for demanding a

district status to Ri-Bhoi.

Mr Silvanus Lamare, principal, St. Edmunds College

said, He has left behind a treasure-trove of

knowledge for the people to read and dwell deep in

knowledge. He has used his talents to the fullest.

Terming Fr Sngi as the son of the soil, Chief

Minister Mukul Sangma said that his attitude towards

the people reminded him of the true demonstration of

the love of God and that his multi-faceted personality

ceaselessly working to provide knowledge,

enlightenment and prosperity. We should emulate

his life and we will be glad if more people like him

come up, he said. Vincent Pala, Shillong MP, lauded

Fr Sngi's contributions towards the society. His niece,

Sister Justina, expressed gratitude to the people who

were by his bedside and said that he had never failed

to give them words of wisdom and valuable insights.

Fr Sngi's nephew, Albert Lyngdoh, while speaking

about the life of his uncle said, His love and thirst of

knowledge and his love for praying for the sick was

unending. He wished that the Khasi people should

read and understand the value of knowledge and get

deep in knowledge, he said while people were seen

wiping away tears from their eyes as he spoke. Albert

could not control his his tears and mourned that Fr

Sngi won't use him for support anymore and said, He

is not dead, he is going up to shine and when you miss

him, look up to the horizon and call out his name

Sngi or Sun he will be there. Fr Sngi, whose first

name means 'Sun' in Khasi had said that he often uses

the Khasi worldview and concepts in explaining

Christianity to tribals. He was born in Bhoi on

January 3, 1921. He was ordained a priest in Italy by

Salesian Bishop Michele Alberto Arduino on July 1,

1958.

(Source: The Shillong Times)

20

16

JU

NE

NE

WS

LIN

E, G

UW

AH

AT

I P

RO

VIN

CE

A Legend is no moreFR SNGI WANTED TO LIVE LONGER TO COMPLETE 30 MORE BOOKS'

12 13

If I can

stop one heart from

breaking, I shall not live

in vain; if I can ease one life

the aching, or cool one pain, or

help one fainting robin, unto his

nest again, I shall not live in vain. These

lines from a poem by Emily Dickinson holds true to

describe the life of Father Sylvanus Sngi Lyngdoh

whom thousands gave a tearful adieu on Monday.

Father Sngi (95) breathed his last on the wee hours of

Saturday 28th May at Nazareth hospital. The love

people have had towards him for his humble and

multi-faceted personality could be seen as thousands

of people paid their last respects to him. Some

remembered him for having prayed for them or their

loved ones and noted personalities recounted him as

a son of the soil. On Monday his mortal remains

were taken from Sacred Heart Theological College,

Mawlai to Laitumkhrah Cathedral for Catholic

faithful coming from different parts of Khasi

Jaintia Hills region to pay their last tribute to the

religious legend before being taken to the cemetery.

The premises of the Cathedral of Mary Help of

Christians was overfilled with thousands of people

both from rural and urban areas as they remembered

him not only as the stalwart personality of the

Catholic Church but as a person who was known to

political circles and pressure groups as their mentor.

Speaking to reporters, Archbishop of Shillong

Archdiocese, Dominic Jala SDB said, He told us in

his deathbed that he yearned to live longer as he had

over 30 more books to complete. Recounting a

chronicle of his journey as a priest who went on to

become the most sought after person who expounded

Scriptural studies, Archbishop Jala said, He was a

brilliant person who felt that the Khasi-Jaintia

community needed him and he wanted to

be remembered as a teacher. He

a d d e d t h a t t h e r e w e r e

numerous scholarly books to

his credit and that he would be

remembered for his teachings and

literary works and socio-political

involvements especially in Ri-Bhoi. He laid

the foundation of the coalition government in the

state, sadly it did not give the desired results, he said.

Many people were healed due to his prayers and the

people are here to pay their solemn respects to him,

he added.

Archbishop Jala observed that Fr Sngi had

envisioned that the Khasi-Jaintia community should

not be deprived of good education which prompted

him to write many books. He recounted late Fr Sngi's

words who said that an educated community endures.

Speaking during the mass service, Shri. DD Lapang,

advisor to the State government, called him a

morning star of the Khasi-Jaintia community and

said, His death is a great loss to the poor and

downtrodden and he was noted for demanding a

district status to Ri-Bhoi.

Mr Silvanus Lamare, principal, St. Edmunds College

said, He has left behind a treasure-trove of

knowledge for the people to read and dwell deep in

knowledge. He has used his talents to the fullest.

Terming Fr Sngi as the son of the soil, Chief

Minister Mukul Sangma said that his attitude towards

the people reminded him of the true demonstration of

the love of God and that his multi-faceted personality

ceaselessly working to provide knowledge,

enlightenment and prosperity. We should emulate

his life and we will be glad if more people like him

come up, he said. Vincent Pala, Shillong MP, lauded

Fr Sngi's contributions towards the society. His niece,

Sister Justina, expressed gratitude to the people who

were by his bedside and said that he had never failed

to give them words of wisdom and valuable insights.

Fr Sngi's nephew, Albert Lyngdoh, while speaking

about the life of his uncle said, His love and thirst of

knowledge and his love for praying for the sick was

unending. He wished that the Khasi people should

read and understand the value of knowledge and get

deep in knowledge, he said while people were seen

wiping away tears from their eyes as he spoke. Albert

could not control his his tears and mourned that Fr

Sngi won't use him for support anymore and said, He

is not dead, he is going up to shine and when you miss

him, look up to the horizon and call out his name

Sngi or Sun he will be there. Fr Sngi, whose first

name means 'Sun' in Khasi had said that he often uses

the Khasi worldview and concepts in explaining

Christianity to tribals. He was born in Bhoi on

January 3, 1921. He was ordained a priest in Italy by

Salesian Bishop Michele Alberto Arduino on July 1,

1958.

(Source: The Shillong Times)

20

16

JU

NE

NE

WS

LIN

E, G

UW

AH

AT

I P

RO

VIN

CE

A Legend is no moreFR SNGI WANTED TO LIVE LONGER TO COMPLETE 30 MORE BOOKS'

15

In the passing away of Rev. Fr Sylvanus Sngi Lyngdoh, the Salesian congregation has lost a very faithful and enthusiastic Salesian, the Church in

Northeast India has lost an intrepid and committed

follower of Jesus, a zealous proclaimer of the Good

News and an uncompromising missionary among the

Khasi people of Meghalaya, a prolific writer, a

staunch champion of culture and progress, a listening

and compassionate priest and prophet, a name and a

face known better than any other name or face of

Meghalaya, the Sacred Heart College has lost an

admirable example of wisdom, hard work and

apostolic zeal, and the Salesian province of Silchar -

a most illustrious confrere, educated, highly

qualified and admired, an example to everyone. On

behalf of the province of Guwahati, I extend my

sincerest and prayerful condolences to Rev. Fr

George Maliekel, the provincial and to all the

confreres of the Silchar Province. Our Prayers and

heartfelt sympathies also to the family members,

friends and well-wishers of Fr Sngi.

As we stand around the mortal remains of Fr Sngi

with pain in our hearts we realize that a living legend

is no more. But the legend lives in our hearts, in the

hearts and memories of the hundreds of thousands of

people whose lives he has touched, in the history of a

land of which he was a proud son, in the history of

the Christian faith he planted in the souls of the

simple and the exalted in his land, in the

memories of the generations of priests,

religious and lay people he has taught the

sacred scriptures to and in the collective memory of

our land and our church, for all times to come.

God raises men and women in a particular time in

history with a plan. From a nondescript hamlet in the

Ri Bhoi area of Khasi hills, from a rustic peasant

stock sprang Fr Sylvanus Lyngdoh who strode like a

colossus across his land but in simplicity, humility,

patience, persuasion, erudition and remarkable

success, planting the kingdom of God with passion

for God and humanity, attempting great things for

God and expecting great things from God. It is this

extraordinary life we mourn at his death but

celebrate, however, his legacy knowing that he lives

forever with Christ His Lord and in the hearts of HIS

people.

Dear Fr Sngi, you were a true son of the soil, a faithful

son of Don Bosco, a missionary par excellence, a

fount of wisdom, a source of strength and power, a

respectful and loving colleague, a shining light of

hope to thousands, a comfort to the sick, a welcome

face at every door. The Lord decided that you have

run the race even more than was expected, you have

finished the course, you have fought the good fight,

and what remains is the crown of glory, which we

implore the Lord to confer on you in all his love and

mercy. You were unique, one in a million. When will

there be another like you? May you rest in the peace

of the Lord and shine among the stars. We all, and

thousands like us, shall miss you. Adieu, Fr Sngi.

Fr. Thomas Vattathara sdb

Salesian Provincial

Provincial of Guwahati

30th May 2016

7 New Salesians for Guwahati

Province

- Fr. Varickasseril Zacharias

The Province of Guwahati was blessed with seven new SDBs on 24 May, 2016 as the novices made their First Professions at Don Bosco Novitiate,

Sunnyside (5) and Zubza (2). We thank the Novice

Masters, Fr. L.B. Anthony, & Fr. Joseph Peringalathu

and all the staff who had been accompanying the

novices in their vocation journey and preparing them

for Salesian life. We rejoice and thank God with them.

20

16

JU

NE

Annual Spiritual Retreat for Clerics

and Renewal of Vows

- Fr. Sangma Januarius

Eighteen temporary professed Salesians made their spiritual retreat at Inspiration, Joypur, Kharghuli, from 16th to 22ndMay. The retreat was

animated by Fr. Januarius Sangma, Vice Provincial.

The retreat was in preparation for the renewal of the

vows for the young Salesians.

Ten Salesians (3 brothers and 7 clerics) of 4 provinces

renewed their vows at DB Technical School,

Maligaon, on 22nd May. Fr. VM Thomas, Provincial,

celebrated the Holy Mass and received the vows of

the brothers, while eighteen brothers renewed their

vows on the same day at Inspiration, Kharghuli. Fr.

Januarius Sangma, Vice Provincial, celebrated the

Holy Eucharist and received the vows of the brothers.

Barpeta Apostolic Boys visit DB Shrine

- Fr. Lakra Markus

Eighty seven apostolic boys visited the Shrine of Don Bosco at Gojapara on 15th April, 2016 and attended the Mass. The Holy Mass was celebrated by Fr. Markus

Lakra, the Rector. After the Holy Mass the community

took part in the Way of the Cross at the newly constructed

Via Dolorosa. Fr. Markus, during the Holy mass, said that

the apostolic boys were lucky to get the privilege to visit

the shrine as part of the conclusion of the birth bicentenary

of Don Bosco. Don Bosco had a special devotion to the

Blessed Mother, the Church and the Holy Father. We need

to imbibe his spirit and be another Don Bosco, he said.

The Salesians of Barpeta Road community accompanied

the apostolic boys.

We appreciate them for the generosity with which

they have responded to God's call. The newly

professed Salesians will pursue their study of

Philosophy & B.A.

Condolence Message of Fr. Provincial

15

In the passing away of Rev. Fr Sylvanus Sngi Lyngdoh, the Salesian congregation has lost a very faithful and enthusiastic Salesian, the Church in

Northeast India has lost an intrepid and committed

follower of Jesus, a zealous proclaimer of the Good

News and an uncompromising missionary among the

Khasi people of Meghalaya, a prolific writer, a

staunch champion of culture and progress, a listening

and compassionate priest and prophet, a name and a

face known better than any other name or face of

Meghalaya, the Sacred Heart College has lost an

admirable example of wisdom, hard work and

apostolic zeal, and the Salesian province of Silchar -

a most illustrious confrere, educated, highly

qualified and admired, an example to everyone. On

behalf of the province of Guwahati, I extend my

sincerest and prayerful condolences to Rev. Fr

George Maliekel, the provincial and to all the

confreres of the Silchar Province. Our Prayers and

heartfelt sympathies also to the family members,

friends and well-wishers of Fr Sngi.

As we stand around the mortal remains of Fr Sngi

with pain in our hearts we realize that a living legend

is no more. But the legend lives in our hearts, in the

hearts and memories of the hundreds of thousands of

people whose lives he has touched, in the history of a

land of which he was a proud son, in the history of

the Christian faith he planted in the souls of the

simple and the exalted in his land, in the

memories of the generations of priests,

religious and lay people he has taught the

sacred scriptures to and in the collective memory of

our land and our church, for all times to come.

God raises men and women in a particular time in

history with a plan. From a nondescript hamlet in the

Ri Bhoi area of Khasi hills, from a rustic peasant

stock sprang Fr Sylvanus Lyngdoh who strode like a

colossus across his land but in simplicity, humility,

patience, persuasion, erudition and remarkable

success, planting the kingdom of God with passion

for God and humanity, attempting great things for

God and expecting great things from God. It is this

extraordinary life we mourn at his death but

celebrate, however, his legacy knowing that he lives

forever with Christ His Lord and in the hearts of HIS

people.

Dear Fr Sngi, you were a true son of the soil, a faithful

son of Don Bosco, a missionary par excellence, a

fount of wisdom, a source of strength and power, a

respectful and loving colleague, a shining light of

hope to thousands, a comfort to the sick, a welcome

face at every door. The Lord decided that you have

run the race even more than was expected, you have

finished the course, you have fought the good fight,

and what remains is the crown of glory, which we

implore the Lord to confer on you in all his love and

mercy. You were unique, one in a million. When will

there be another like you? May you rest in the peace

of the Lord and shine among the stars. We all, and

thousands like us, shall miss you. Adieu, Fr Sngi.

Fr. Thomas Vattathara sdb

Salesian Provincial

Provincial of Guwahati

30th May 2016

7 New Salesians for Guwahati

Province

- Fr. Varickasseril Zacharias

The Province of Guwahati was blessed with seven new SDBs on 24 May, 2016 as the novices made their First Professions at Don Bosco Novitiate,

Sunnyside (5) and Zubza (2). We thank the Novice

Masters, Fr. L.B. Anthony, & Fr. Joseph Peringalathu

and all the staff who had been accompanying the

novices in their vocation journey and preparing them

for Salesian life. We rejoice and thank God with them.

20

16

JU

NE

Annual Spiritual Retreat for Clerics

and Renewal of Vows

- Fr. Sangma Januarius

Eighteen temporary professed Salesians made their spiritual retreat at Inspiration, Joypur, Kharghuli, from 16th to 22ndMay. The retreat was

animated by Fr. Januarius Sangma, Vice Provincial.

The retreat was in preparation for the renewal of the

vows for the young Salesians.

Ten Salesians (3 brothers and 7 clerics) of 4 provinces

renewed their vows at DB Technical School,

Maligaon, on 22nd May. Fr. VM Thomas, Provincial,

celebrated the Holy Mass and received the vows of

the brothers, while eighteen brothers renewed their

vows on the same day at Inspiration, Kharghuli. Fr.

Januarius Sangma, Vice Provincial, celebrated the

Holy Eucharist and received the vows of the brothers.

Barpeta Apostolic Boys visit DB Shrine

- Fr. Lakra Markus

Eighty seven apostolic boys visited the Shrine of Don Bosco at Gojapara on 15th April, 2016 and attended the Mass. The Holy Mass was celebrated by Fr. Markus

Lakra, the Rector. After the Holy Mass the community

took part in the Way of the Cross at the newly constructed

Via Dolorosa. Fr. Markus, during the Holy mass, said that

the apostolic boys were lucky to get the privilege to visit

the shrine as part of the conclusion of the birth bicentenary

of Don Bosco. Don Bosco had a special devotion to the

Blessed Mother, the Church and the Holy Father. We need

to imbibe his spirit and be another Don Bosco, he said.

The Salesians of Barpeta Road community accompanied

the apostolic boys.

We appreciate them for the generosity with which

they have responded to God's call. The newly

professed Salesians will pursue their study of

Philosophy & B.A.

Condolence Message of Fr. Provincial

16 17

Salesians pray for alumnus Chief

Minister

- NEWSLINE Correspondent

The Salesians and members of the Salesian family prayed, on May 23, for the Assam Chief Minister designate, Mr. Sarbananda Sonowal, one of

their former students. This is a historic moment for

the state and the Salesian family when one of our own

illustrious Alumni is taking up the reins of the state,

Provincial Fr. V.M. Thomas told those gathered.

The prayer meet at the Salesian Provincial House