The grand inauguration of the 29th Provincial Chapter of the Salesian Province of Chennai unfolded with grace on the evening of January 14, 2024, at 6:30 pm. The solemn inaugural mass, presided over by Most. Rev. George Antonysamy Archbishop of Madras-Mylapore, set the tone for this significant gathering. The Provincial of the Chennai Province, Fr. Don Bosco LOURDUSAMY, extended a warm welcome to the 123 chapter members, urging them to seize this auspicious moment for reflection, renewal, and rejoicing. Drawing inspiration from the GC29 document and Synodal reflections, Archbishop Antonysamy delivered a homily emphasizing three pivotal elements: 1) “Friendly Accompaniment” in the spirit of Valdocco, advocating for Salesians to be mentors rather than mere doers for the young; 2) “Participatory Governance,” urging collaboration with the youth as active mission partners; 3)”Real Missionary Zeal for Evangelization,” encapsulated in Don Bosco’s motto “Da mihi animas catera tolle,” transcending institutional boundaries for the salvation of souls.
Before the inaugural mass, Fr. Doss Kennedy, the Rector of Don Bosco Renewal Centre, Bengaluru, led the chapter members in a thoughtful recollection which included moments of adoration and confession. The inaugural function witnessed an address from Fr. Don Bosco, the Provincial, who expounded on the Strenna 2024 – “A dream that transforms the wolves into lambs” as the essence of the entire Salesian Journey. Representatives from the Salesian family were honoured during the ceremony, each sharing brief messages with the chapter members. Additionally, letters from Fr. Alphonse Owoudou, the moderator of GC29, and Fr. Biju Michael, the Regional Councilor for South Asia, were read, adding depth to the proceedings. The Moderator of the 9th Provincial Chapter, Fr. John Britto Savarinathan, provided further insights and details, outlining the chapter’s vision for a transformative shift from what is done for the young to what the Salesians are with and for the young, fostering a spirit of dialogue, discernment, and accompaniment.
