WALKING TOGETHER IN COMMUNION AND MISSION - 2026

The 2nd South Asia Regional Consulta Meeting was held at Provincial House, Nitika Complex, Kolkata, from 10 to 13 September 2026. Forty-five Regional and Provincial Delegates of the SDBs and FMAs, together with representatives of the Lay Associations and other groups of the Salesian Family, gathered for formation, reflection, dialogue and fraternity. From our Province, Sr. Iona Barretto and Sr. Hilda Braganza participated in the meeting. Warmly welcomed by the young people of Don Bosco Technical School and the children of the Evening School, the participants experienced the vibrant culture and hospitality of Bengal.

A Journey of Formation and Reflection

The meeting, animated by Fr. Joan Playa, Delegate of the Rector Major for the Salesian Family and the Team, focused on the identity and mission of Delegates and on strengthening communion within the Salesian Family.

Through Lectio Divina, digital presentations and group reflection, participants explored animation and accompaniment, emphasising a shift from an administrative approach to one rooted in relationship, listening, presence and shared responsibility.

The relevance of Don Bosco’s Preventive System in today’s changing world was explored by Fr. Filiberto Rodríguez and Fr. John Alexander, with particular attention to young people, technology, friendship and authentic human relationships. The sessions highlighted the importance of presence and accompaniment in an increasingly digital world.

Don Luis Eugenio Vargas, World Spiritual Animator of ADMA, reflected on Salesian holiness and vocation animation, reminding the participants that holiness is a daily call and that vocation promotion is a shared responsibility of the entire Salesian Family. Sr. Sahaya Sangitha Rani contributed generously through translation and coordination, fostering communication and fraternity among participants.

Sharing the Charism, Strengthening Communion

The sharing of good practices revealed the rich diversity of the Salesian charism across South Asia. Different cultures, ministries and gifts became opportunities for learning, collaboration and mutual encouragement.

Prayer and the Eucharist remained at the heart of the gathering, grounding the discussions in Christ. Shared meals, conversations and recreation further strengthened relationships, reminding participants that synodality is lived through listening, shared responsibility and journeying together.

From Meeting Together to Walking Together

The 2nd South Asia Regional Consulta Meeting concluded with renewed commitment to accompaniment, collaboration, vocation and holiness, the Preventive System and a culture of synodality.

The journey now continues in our Provinces and Communities, where we are called to translate these reflections into concrete action in the service of the young and the Church.

Together, we continue to dream, listen, accompany and serve—walking as one Salesian Family towards a future of hope.

Sr. Hilda Braganza
Province Delegate of the Salesian Family (INB)