The Salesian Province of Dimapur hosted a two-day Mission Seminar at Don Bosco Provincial House, commemorating the 150th Anniversary of the First Salesian Missionary Expedition that sailed from Valdocco to Patagonia in 1875. The seminar was held on the theme: “Give Thanks, Rethink and Relaunch.” It brought together Salesians, members of the Salesian family, educators, youth animators, young priests, students of philosophy and lay collaborators from across the province to reflect on the missionary spirit of Don Bosco and to renew commitment to evangelization in today’s context.
The seminar opened with prayer and words of welcome by Fr. Policarp Xalxo, followed by the Keynote Address of the Provincial, who recalled the courage and sacrifice of the early missionaries who first reached Northeast India. He invited all present to rediscover the fire of “Da Mihi Animas, Cetera Tolle” — Don Bosco’s passionate desire for the salvation of souls — and to continue building the Kingdom of God among the young.
Throughout the sessions, the speakers highlighted different dimensions of the Salesian missionary identity:
- Fr. Deli Kapani, Vice Provincial presented The Missionary Dreams of Don Bosco, reminding that mission is at the heart of Salesian life.
- Fr. T.J. Francis addressed Evangelization Challenges in the Digital Age, pointing out the shifting cultural landscape and calling the digital world “today’s mission territory.”
- Fr. Polycarp Xalxo traced the history of Salesian Missions in Northeast India, from the first expedition to Assam to the growth of the Salesian presence across the region.
- Fr. T.C. Joseph spoke on Evangelization in Educational Settings, emphasizing life witness, family spirit, and promoting peace and social harmony.
- Sr. Domencia Kasho, MSMHC, reflected on Mission ad Gentes and Catechesis as the core of the MSMHC charism.
- Fr. Alex Pulimootil highlighted Evangelization as Relationship, saying that love, dialogue, and presence are the first steps of mission.
- Fr. Jerry V.M spoke on Digital Media as a Platform for Evangelization, urging Salesians to be actively present among youth online, where culture is shaped today.
- Sr. Lydia Komuhra, FMA, shared the feminine, maternal dimension of the Preventive System inspired by St. Mary Mazzarello.
- Fr. C.D Mathai revisited the Salesian motto “Da Mihi Animas, Cetera Tolle,” calling it the burning heart of Don Bosco’s pastoral action.
A panel discussion featuring veteran missionaries like Fr. C.C Jose, Fr. K.S Joseph and Fr. Kamil Horo, concluded the seminar, with speakers sharing stories of courage, cultural sensitivity, and perseverance in the mission field. Their testimonies highlighted that true evangelization begins with presence, compassion, and accompaniment.
The seminar concluded with words of gratitude by Fr. Deli Kapani, the vice Provincial and a renewed call to embrace the missionary heritage of Don Bosco with joy and creativity. Participants affirmed their commitment to continue the mission among young people, especially the most vulnerable, in schools, parishes, hostels, digital spaces, and emerging cultural frontiers.
