Salesian Family Day Draws Large Number
Bengaluru: The Salesian Province of Bangalore celebrated Salesian Family Days on 26 November 2023 in Karnataka State and on 3 December 2023 in Kerala State. The Karnataka has ten branches of Salesian Family while Kerala has nine branches of Salesian Family. Fro the first time, all the branches of Salesian Family were present during the family days. The branches in the province of Bangalore are: SDB, FMA. ASC, ADMA, VDB, MSMHC, SMI, SMA, The Disciples, SDB-PP and FMA-PP. The Salesian Family Day in Kerala witnessed a record number of participants, over 350 people.
The Salesian Family Day in Karnataka was at Don Bosco Ajjanahalli, a centre away from the City of Bangalore surrounded by mountains and forest. The package of the day had moments of trekking in the surrounding area. The Family Day in Kerala was kept at Don Bosco Vaduthala. A unique feature of the day was Chenda (Kerala percussion music) played by Don Bosco Boys of Palluruthy. The participants did not forget to encourage the boys through their rhythmic movement with the Chenda Boys! The Family Day at Ajjanahalli witnessed the coming of St. Zatti in cycle portrayed by a Salesian Cooperator, Mr. Stanislas. Another feature of Salesian Family Days in these places was selfie contest with the Salesian Saints. The replica of laughing Salesian saints (Don Bosco, Dominic Savio, St. Mary Mazzarello, Mary Help of Christians) drew many groups and individuals to click their cell cam with these saints. Snacks brought by participants were shared during the day. The participants experienced family fellowship during these moments. The snacks shared reminded the participants of the miracle of loaves. They even shared part of the snacks with the poor and local people! The delegate of Salesian family, Fr. Gilbert coordinated the programme in both places. The presence of the Provincial, Fr. Jose Koyickal and Vice Provincial, Fr. Shalbin added more joy and closeness among the family members. Apart from the Holy Eucharist, Strenna 2024 was presented to the family members. Fr. Gilbert thanked all everyone who worked behind the success of the family days.
