“A dream, a promise and the future”: the 150th anniversary of the Salesian Cooperators celebrated in South Asia Region.
It is with great joy that the Salesian Cooperators of South Asia Region celebrated the 150th anniversary of the foundation of the Association, a special moment that was shared through the special activities of the local centres in the Region.
Province of Bangalore : Celebrated across the Bangalore province with Holy Masses, Rosary, Eucharistic Adoration, renewal of Promise, fellowship gatherings and induction of new members. Centres at Vaduthala, Vennala, Puthuppally and Mampette organised special programes. A digital quarterly newsletter was launched and province wide coordination ensured meaningful prayer, renewal, unity and recommitment to the Salesian Vocation.
Province of Kolkata : The Salesian Cooperators Auxilium Centre Bandel hosted a successful Blood Donation Camp at the Bandel Basilica (Basilica of Our Lady of Happy Voyage) parish hall, commemorating the 150th anniversary of the Salesian Cooperators. Inaugurated by Rev. Fr. P.A. John SDB and other religious, the event drew 65 donors. This diverse group included parishioners, non-Christian friends, and Don Bosco seminarians, who formed the largest donor bloc. Supported by Basilica resources and Auxilium Convent, the medical team efficiently guided participants, offering food and gifts. camp concluded with praise from medical staff, leaving organizers fullled by their life-saving contribution to society.
The Cooperators of the Provincial House Centre visited Shishu Bhavan, a children’s home managed by the Missionaries of Charity. Members sponsored and served meals to approximately 40 daily wage laborers alongside Sr. Antoine (Superior). Following this, the team visited the resident children during evening snacks, sharing warmth, interaction, and affection, while providing a financial donation for their refreshments. Sr. Antoine expressed deep gratitude for the visit. The initiative successfully spread immense joy and fulfilled its objective of providing meaningful support and generosity to vulnerable sections of society.
Province of Tiruchy : To commemorate the 150th anniversary of the Salesian Cooperators Association and in keeping with the Jubilee Year theme, “Pilgrims of Hope,” the Salesian Cooperators of the Tiruchy Province organized a special pilgrimage to the Marian Shrine of Velankanni on 07 December 2025. More than 200 members from all the local units participated, making it a historic and grace-filled event for the Association. Each local unit organized its own mode of transportation and converged at Velankanni, symbolizing unity in diversity and a shared commitment to the Salesian mission. The programme included a reflection on Dilexit Nos, the recent document of Pope Leo XIV, interactive sessions, a Rosary procession, the celebration of the Holy Eucharist, and a fellowship meal. The pilgrimage fostered spiritual renewal, strengthened fraternity, and deepened the members’ commitment to the Salesian vocation and mission.
Special ASC-INT Anthem was released at the Regional Congress held at DBI Guwahati in commemoration of 150th anniversary of the Association. This initiave was the first of its kind in South Asia Region as well. Anthem was written and composed by Rev.Dr.Deva Joe SDB and released by the Regional Delegate – SA Region Rev.Fr. Joseph Manipadam SDB , along with Mr.Devasia-World Councillor, Mr.Antuvan-Former World Councillor.
Province of Hyderabad : The Province of Hyderabad has discerned to focus especially on the Joint formation and empowerment of Women, Children and Youth, inspired by the preventive system of Don Bosco and guided by the motherly protection of Mary Help of Christians, the Province seeks to make this anniversary a time of spiritual renewal, evangelization and service. These celebrations are intended not merely as commemorative events but as grace-filled opportunities to deepen our communion with God and strengthen our commitment to the Salesian mission in the Church and society. These celebrations are intended not merely as commemorative events but as grace-filled opportunities to deepen our communion with God and strengthen our commitment to the Salesian mission in the Church and society.
