A seminar for the administrator’s of the communities was organised by the province on 04 & 05 September 2024 at Vicuna Nivas Jumaikela. 16 Sisters participated in this seminar. The resource persons were Sr. Shanty Mathew, the Provincial Economer and Sr. Teresa Karakkal, the former Provincial economer. The seminar started with prayer and an introductory talk by Sr. Rosalia Tirkey, the animator of Jumaikela. She began with Don Bosco’s Momentos to the First Missionaries inscribed in the Constitutions exhorting us to seek souls and not riches and also to take care of one’s health. Thereafter Sr. Shanty Mathew began the session by quoting from Nelson Mandela former President of South Africa, “Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure.” So, she invited each of us to be aware of the potential hidden within us. An Ice-breaking session through a puzzle game made the participants realize the importance of the Synodal style of administrative animation in the community and mission. Practical tips on administration and accounting were dealt with. Tally Prime was introduced to enhance administrative efficiency.
Sr. Teresa enlightened us with the duty of the economer and the different aspects of congregation account. Doubts were clarified, and group discussions were organized where everyone expressed their views and ideas. The participants drew up some practical objectives to improve administrative skills and to promote professional development. The seminar concluded with the Conference of Mother Mazzarello on Poverty. Everyone was enriched by the Seminar and expressed their desire to have such a gathering again. The participants expressed their gratitude to Sr. Leelamma Palliparampil, the Provincial, Sr. Shanty Mathew and Sr. Teesa Karakkal for organising this enriching session, they also extend their heartfelt thanks to Sr. Rosalia Tirkey and the Community for their hospitality.
AUXILIUM BARASAT: “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much” The prophetic vision, which began as a tiny seed in the heart of little John Bosco through his dream at nine, has grown into a vast and thriving tree, branching out into the great movement we now know as the Salesian Family of Don Bosco.
On 25th August 2024, a new chapter unfolded for FMA INC Salesian Sisters with the celebration of FMA Salesian Family Day at Auxilium Convent Barasat. The theme of the day was “Don Bosco’s Dream at Nine”. The Salesian Sisters, Past Pupils, Co-Operators, ADMA and VDB members of Bandel, Barasat, Dum Dum, Ranchi and Park Circus attended the event. The event was thoughtfully conceptualized and meticulously planned by the Provincial delegate of the Salesian Family INC Sr. Stella Potteparambil which paved the way for an outstanding and brilliant programme.
The Day commenced with the Holy Eucharist celebrated by Fr. Joseph Manipadam the National delegate for the Salesian Family enriched with collaboration with various units of the Salesian family and FMA aspirantate community
Rev. Fr. Joseph Manipadam presented the programme of the Salesian family with its goals and objectives based on the Salesian family meet held at Dimapur organized by the Salesian family sector from Rome.
The cultural fiesta commenced with the melodious welcome song by the candidates and boarders of Auxilium Barasat and an enchanting welcome dance by the aspirants of Bamunmura. Sr. Stella in her welcome speech reiterated how the impact of this dream of Don Bosco at the age of nine was the genesis of the birth of the Salesian Charism. She exhorted the assembly to live the common mission and vision and the comradeship among all the various groups with oneness and purpose. She presented to the audience the newly constituted FMA INC Salesian Family Consultative Council (FMA INC SFCC). The members consisted of delegates from Salesian family, representatives from Salesian cooperators, ADMA members and Past Pupils from each unit and past pupil’s federation president.
The theme of the cultural festival was “The Dream of Don Bosco at the age of nine’ to meaningfully celebrate its bicentenary and it was anchored by the president of the past Pupils unit Ms. Sangamitra B. The event consisted of the presentations of the comprehensive report of the activities of Past pupils, Salesian cooperators and ADMA of the past years giving a detailed overview of what each unit is accomplishing to carry out Don Bosco’s mission. The Salesian family relived the dream of their founder: The Salesian cooperators through a song Past pupils through a musical and the ADMA members through a tableau
Finally, the members got into groups center-wise to discuss a common project they could carry out as a Salesian family. In the general assembly, the centers presented the following visionary projects.
Bandel: Planation drive and food supply to the orphanage
Barasat: Holding sports tournaments and distribution of food and clothing for the lower strata of the society.
Dum Dum: Organizing children’s day, Don Bosco’s feast for the underprivileged children of the locality and health camps for the poor.
The FMA INC Salesian family Consultative council pledged to propagate values through social medium platforms to transform the society bereft of ethics.
The episode came to a close with the vote of thanks of Sr. Stella, the provincial delegate for the Salesian family and song to our Blessed Mother.
The day was a majestic celebration of unity and parity amongst people coming from different walks of life joined by a common cord of Salesian charism is validated by the participants.
“The Salesian Family Day was truly a day of Thanksgiving to God and our Blessed Mother for the gift of Salesian charism that unites us as members of the same family, living the same dream of Don Bosco his spirit and mission in different walks of life. Coming together as a salesian family was a great means to strengthen the bonds of communion among ourselves and to live our common vision and mission with renewed vigour and oneness of Purpose. “Sr. Lily Perumpettikunnel Delegate of ADMA Barasat
“It was a heartwarming, enriching gathering that brought together members of the Salesian family in a spirit of unit, joy to reflect upon Don Bosco’s mission. I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to Sr. Stella for her exceptional efforts in organizing and coordinating this meaningful event” Diangeli Majumder Bandel Past Pupil Bandel
“The theme of the day was well chalked out and very meaningful to boost our heart, mind and soul to commit ourselves to dedicate to the dream of Don Bosco. Though it was the first gathering of FMA Salesian Family, I feel it was awesome” Mr. Ashok Dolui Salesian cooperator Dum Dum
“Yesterday we witnessed the beginning of a new chapter in FMA INC like creation of a beautiful garland, each of us Past Pupils, cooperators, ADMA, and Salesian sisters being different beads strung together perfectly in a single chord to create a stunning success. Ms. Sangamitra B. Past pupil of Dum Dum
DUM DUM (KOLKATA): On 24th August 2024, the maiden ADMA DAY was celebrated with great fervor and devotion by the ADMA members at the FMA Provincial House, Kolkata. The event aimed to honor Mary Help of Christians, the patroness of the Salesian Family and to promote the Association of Mary Help of Christians (ADMA) among the faithful.
The day started with a Eucharistic celebration presided over by Fr. Joseph Manipadam, the National delegate for the Salesian family. 20 new members from Auxilium Ranchi, Auxilium Barasat, and Auxilium Dum Dum took the pledge as they joined the ADMA family during the Eucharistic Celebration through the reception and promise ritual after the homily. They were welcomed by garlanding by the delegates and the offering of ADMA kit by provincial Sr. Leelamma Palliparambil.
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After a break, the cultural programme commenced with an introduction and warm welcome extended to Rev Fr Joseph Manipadam, Provincial Sr. Leelamma Palliparambil and all the delegates from the different ADMA units. Sr. Stella Davis, the Provincial Delegate for Salesian Family and ADMA presented a combined report on the activities undertaken by the four ADMA units (Auxilium Ranchi, Gobra, Barasat and Dum Dum)
The ADMA day was also the celebration of the bicentenary of the Dream of Don Bosco at the age of nine so each ADMA unit presented a tableau on the Dream of St. DON BOSCO at the age of nine as the theme of the cultural programme was “A DREAM THAT MAKES YOU DREAM”.
In his message Fr. Joseph Manipadam stressed on the significance of ADMA and Mary’s role in Salesian spirituality. The interactive session in the form of a quiz on the message helped the members to deepen their devotion to Mary Help of Christians and renew their commitment to ADMA’s mission and values.
In the afternoon the ADMA members of Mazzarello Ranchi and Auxilium Dum Dum made a pilgrimage to the Basilica Our Lady of Rosary, Bandel. All the sisters and ADMA members recited the rosary inside the church and visited the Balcony where the miraculous statue of Our Lady is enshrined despite incessant of rain. The visit aimed to deepen their devotion to Our Lady and foster spiritual growth through pilgrimage and prayer.
Ms.Nisha Barui, an ADMA member Dum Dum shared her experience saying,” The ADMA day which was celebrated on 24 gave us a golden opportunity to renew our love and our entrustment to Mother Mary. We relived the dream of Don Bosco through the Tableaus presented by the ADMA units.”
Ms.Isabella Antony said: “The celebration of ADMA was an overwhelming experience. It was such a joy to see so many Marian devotees come together as one under her mantle to make her known and loved.”
Ms. Shirely Gomes the newly pledged member has this to say, “The celebration of ADMA day as a new member was a homely and wonderful experience. Got to know what Mother Mary and Jesus wanted through Don Bosco’s dream.”
The ADMA DAY celebration was a spirit-filled event that nourished the devotion and commitment of the Salesian Family to Mary Help of Christians. We express our sincere gratitude to Sr. Stella Davis the Provincial delegate of ADMA for organizing this event and for making us a part of it.
AUXILIUM CONVENT SCHOOL, BARASAT: On 12 and 13 August 2024, students from Auxilium Convent School, Barasat, embarked on a comprehensive ecology awareness program targeting International Public School (IPS), Julien Day School (JDS), St. Jude’s High School, and Central Modern School (CMS). This initiative was spearheaded by Principal Sr. Esther Rani to foster environmental consciousness among the younger generation.
The program resonated strongly with students across all neighbouring schools in Barasat town. The students of IX-XII demonstrated keen interest and actively engaged in discussions on various environmental issues. The focus on bioaccumulation, biomagnification and the pollution of the sacred river Ganga particularly evoked strong responses, highlighting the students’ environmental awareness. The program also highlighted the importance of a spiritual connection with nature, drawing insights from various religious texts. This approach fostered a deeper appreciation for the environment and a sense of responsibility towards its protection.
The emphasis on adopting a simple lifestyle and eco-friendly practices proved impactful. Students were encouraged to reduce waste, conserve energy, and support sustainable initiatives. The distribution of jute, sugarcane bagasse, and paper bags symbolized a practical step towards reducing plastic consumption.
International Public School (IPS): The program at IPS was met with immense enthusiasm. Students were receptive to the message and actively participated in discussions. Their insightful questions and comments provided valuable feedback for future programs. The school’s administration, led by the Principal Miss Rangana Roy Burman, was incredibly supportive and extended warm hospitality to the visiting students and teachers.
Julien Day School (JDS:) At JDS, the focus on the pollution of the Ganga River struck a chord with the students, sparking lively debates and discussions. The school’s environment was conducive to learning, and the students’ eagerness to engage with the topic was commendable. The Principal, Sir Michael Rebeiro’s warm welcome and shared anecdotes created a positive atmosphere.
St. Jude’s High School: The students at St. Jude’s demonstrated a keen interest in environmental issues and were enthusiastic participants in the program. Their creative ideas and innovative suggestions were inspiring. The Principal, Miss Aditi Chakraborty’s support and encouragement played a vital role in the program’s success.
Central Modern School (CMS): CMS students were equally engaged and receptive to the environmental message. Their active participation and insightful feedback were invaluable. The school’s supportive environment was possible due to the Principal Miss Bharti Sharma, who contributed significantly to the overall impact of the program.
The success of this endeavour would not have been possible without the tireless efforts of our accompanying teachers, Miss Dola, Miss Rubi, Miss Elizabeth, and Sir Sudip. Their expertise, patience, and dedication were instrumental in ensuring the smooth execution of the program. They guided the students, managed logistics, and created a supportive environment, making the entire experience enriching for everyone involved.
Ishani Das was a student of Auxilium School, Dum Dum, Kolkata who left this world for eternity on 08 January 2024 leaving her footprints in the family, the school and among her friends at the age of 15. Her legacy of exemplary life remains for others to follow and her suffering life for others to have the courage to emulate.
Ishani was a simple and ordinary girl of our time. She was diagnosed with cancer when she was studying in class IX and she suffered for more than a year with serenity and submission without any lamentation bravely.
She was a wonderful soul who lived heavenward. She is an inspiration to young people and their parents. She was a gift to others in the school and outside during her life journey.
When you read the story of this beautiful soul you will be awe-struck at how passionately she lived her life for others. “How could this young teenager have such faith and courage at a tender age? Let us live our ordinary lives extraordinarily.
AUXILIUM BANDEL: The Auxi Green Movement, led by Class X A, embarked on an enlightening journey to promote energy conservation and its awareness. The event commenced with a warm welcome and a thought-provoking speech on the significance of energy conservation by Pornika Das. Her words urged everyone to reflect on their energy consumption habits and the broader impact on our planet. The highlight of the event was a captivating street play performed by the talented ensemble on energy conservation scenarios. To conclude the event, the class monitor, Smita Nath, led the audience to pledge to conserve energy. Her words inspired a collective commitment to make a positive change.
We rejoice and thank God for having done great things through Sr. Kanchan Karuna Bara FMA, the Principal Auxilium Convent School, New Chumta. She was honoured with the ‘Swami Vivekananda National Principals Awards 2024’ at the Grand Conclave which was attended by Educators, Influencers, School Principals, Policy makers and Industry Experts from the Education Sector across the globe on 27th July 2024 at Taj City Centre, New Town, Kolkata. The Jury of the Award selected the awardee for having done significant work to provide quality education for 21st Century Learners.
The students of Snehadhan, Bareilly organised a creative plantation initiative using unused bottles with enthusiasm. They participated in this project and gained hands-on experience in an advanced recycling technique. Through this activity, they learned that plants beautify space and provide air-purifying benefits, contributing to overall well-being and creating a healthy environment for themselves and their loved ones. This project taught them the importance of protecting our planet and the value of sustainable practices. They also discovered that plants can make an eco-friendly gift, symbolizing growth, renewal, and environmental responsibility.
AUXILIUM BARASAT: The media week was held at Auxilium Convent School Barasat on 15-19 July 2024 with the theme “Preserving Nature”. The Media Club President Tanishi Datta and Susmit Acharya spoke about the significance of the media in the morning assembly, followed by the Vice Principal, Sr. Arockia Aruna P declared the Media Week open.
The Inter-house videography event was held between classes VI, VII and IX-XII with their clicks and shots, in nature, along with the “Go As You Like” competition for class VI, with the same topic in designing costumes, while their house members assisted them with projection of PPT on the stage. Class VII had a ‘Poster Making’ competition (MS WORD), to design the “green drive”; while Class VIII, Web Page designing (HTML) with the theme, “go green” to bring out the best of ‘Ecology’ with media and technology; Inter-house ‘Tech Elanza’ model-making competition was apprehended to showcase the innovative method of making ‘Use of technology to preserve our Environment’, and different eco-friendly models and tools that help to preserve and protect a green environment. On the last day, there were three participants, each group with one as a camera person, one as a reporter and one as the newsreader. The ‘News Bulletin’ inter-house competition was conducted for classes IX and X, with the theme of ‘Awareness on maintaining ecological balance’. On the same day, the distinguished Alumni guests, Samrat Ghosh and Abantika Chakraborty, contributed excellent inputs on ‘Ecology’ to all the students in the auditorium. This media week inculcated and increased the knowledge and desire of the students to care about nurturing nature without which life becomes miserable for living things.
RANCHI: On July 13, 2024, the novices and sisters, together with the house staff, had the joy of planting different kinds of vegetable seeds. This was to respond to the promotion of regenerative agriculture through community gardens to restore local ecosystems and support biodiversity.
The novices were excited to plant the various kinds of seeds; moreover, each one of them got the opportunity to plant the seeds to heed the call of the earth to nurture a sustainable future.
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