XIX SUNDAY OF THE YEAR: 13 August 2023

AMID THE STORM1 Kings 19:9a, 11-13a; Romans 9:1-5; Matthew 14:22-33 We are amid one of the greatest storms of our lives – the coronavirus is still around with new variants; inflation and unemployment; natural disasters and violent conflict in several parts of the world; growing hatred and intolerance. Many of us are overwhelmed. The readings of today feature people who are overwhelmed by events in their lives. Amid chaos, they experience God’s abiding presence. The first reading features Elijah who had to flee into the desert to escape the wrath of Jezebel. There he encounters an angel who comforted him

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Rev Fr Benny Varghese Shares Vision of Priestly Ministry and Challenges Ahead During Address to Salesian Gathering

Dimapur, 11 August 2023: In a heartfelt address delivered at the Don Bosco Provincial House in Dimapur on 11 August 2023, Bishop-Elect Rev Fr Benny Varghese offered insight into his upcoming role as the Bishop of Itanagar and his profound perspective on priestly ministry. The gathering, attended by Salesians of the houses in Dimapur was marked by a sense of unity and anticipation for the journey ahead.During his address, Bishop-Elect Rev Fr Benny Varghese expressed his deep gratitude for the outpouring of prayers and well-wishes he had received following his appointment as the Bishop of Itanagar. Acknowledging the significance of

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Raising Knowledge-Hungry Minds and Nurturing Young Imaginations

Are you searching for a magazine that seamlessly blends entertainment with education, catering to both the young and the young at heart? Look no further, as we proudly present to you Children’s Digest – a captivating, vibrantly illustrated publication dedicated to fostering holistic development in students. Brought to you by the esteemed Rashtra Deepika group of publications, Children’s Digest stands as a paragon of excellence in the world of children’s magazines. Since its inception in 1997, Children’s Digest has held its position as a premier publication, captivating minds and nurturing imaginations. This multicoloured monthly gem is an all-encompassing experience that

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Don Bosco Schools Unite to Navigate New Education Policies

Dibrugarh, 5 August 2023: The Northeastern region of India witnessed a significant gathering of educational leaders on Saturday, as the Don Bosco Schools convened for a crucial meeting to discuss the National Education Policy (NEP) and its implications. Hosted by Don Bosco Dibrugarh, the meeting aimed to introduce the heads of institutions to the new policies and procedures outlined in the NEP. The event commenced with a warm welcome by the NEP Programme Coordinator, Fr. Neljen SDB, who is also the principal of Don Bosco Dibrugarh. The distinguished guest, Fr. Joseph Manipadam SDB, the SPCSA delegate for the Salesian Family

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“The Salesians of Don Bosco in Northeast India: A Hundred Years of Evangelizing Mission (1922-2022) Volume I & II”

“The Salesians of Don Bosco in Northeast India: A Hundred Years of Evangelizing Mission (1922-2022)” is a remarkable two-volume work that offers a comprehensive and deeply insightful account of the Salesian missionary journey in northeast India. Published by Don Bosco Publications in Guwahati in 2022, this monumental work stands as a tribute to the enduring legacy of the Salesian missionaries and their profound impact on the region. The book, skilfully edited by Fr Joy Kachappilly SDB, Fr George Maliekal SDB, Fr Josekutty Thomas Madathiparambil SDB, and Fr Jose Chemparathy SDB, presents a rich and compelling narrative of the Salesian presence

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Don Bosco Higher Secondary School, Wokha Celebrates Annual Cultural Event: A Celebration of Heritage and Skills

Wokha, 3 August 2023: Don Bosco Higher Secondary School, Wokha, marked another successful year of its annual cultural event with an engaging celebration that embraced the rich cultural heritage of the region. Under the guidance of Fr (Dr) TC Joseph SDB, the school’s esteemed principal, the event was designed to instil a deeper understanding and appreciation of their own culture among the students through participative learning. This year’s event focused on integrating traditional practices with modern education, creating a unique platform for students to explore and embrace their roots. The festivities saw enthusiastic participation of both girls and boys, each

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Pope Francis Visits Shrine of Fátima, Emphasizing Church’s Openness to All

Lisbon, 5 August, 2023: Pope Francis embarked on a significant visit to the Shrine of Fátima this Saturday morning, August 5, underlining his commitment to an inclusive and accessible Church. The Holy Father’s arrival was marked by an unconventional choice – he refused the use of the safety capsule, opting to travel in an open vehicle, allowing him to be in closer contact with the faithful who had gathered at the Shrine. The Pope’s visit commenced at approximately 8:40 am when his helicopter touched down near the Shrine. After reciting the rosary, he emphasized the importance of a Church without

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Pope Francis Engages in Moving Confession Ceremony and Addresses Youth at World Youth Day Lisbon 2023

Lisbon, 4 August 2023: The fourth day of the eagerly anticipated World Youth Day (WYD) event in Lisbon saw Pope Francis engage in a deeply moving confession ceremony and deliver a powerful message to the youth in attendance. The Holy Father’s presence and words left an indelible mark on the hearts of thousands of young individuals from around the world The day commenced with a poignant moment at the Forgiveness Park, where Pope Francis heard the confessions of three young people representing diverse nationalities – Spanish, Italian, and Guatemalan. This act of reconciliation was witnessed by a throng of enthusiastic

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THE TRANSFIGURATION: 06 August 2023

A MOMENT OF GRACEDaniel 7:9-10, 13-14; 2 Peter 1:16-19; Matthew 17:1-9 Eric Carle, the author and illustrator of children’s books, recalls that he was a shy six-year-old when the storytelling world opened for him:“The world seemed a cold and confusing place, except for one thing—a picture of a cityscape that faced my bed: red brick buildings with darkened windows, except for one exploding with the joyful colours of a Christmas tree. The picture was the work of an art director at my father’s job.Once, my father took me to work. I was so shy I could barely speak. The art

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World Youth Day Lisbon 2023: Thousands Gather for Day 2, Embracing Unity and Faith

Lisbon 2 August 2023: The second day of the World Youth Day (WYD) in Lisbon began with a spectacular inaugural mass attended by thousands of enthusiastic young pilgrims from all over the world. Partial views of priests celebrating the mass were captured as they led the faithful in prayer and reflection can be seen in one of the photos captured by Fr Nebu Mathew SDB, the team leader from Dimapur Province.Later in the evening of 2 August 2023, the WYD featured a special Salesian Youth Gathering, which saw a large turnout of young people coming together to celebrate their faith

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