Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Guwahati (Agenzia Fides) - Prayers, Pilgrimages, vigils for peace characterized the program of the visit of the remains of St. John Bosco in the Diocese of Guwahati, in the state of Assam in northeastern India. The relics - which were kept in the Diocese of Guwahati from May 29 to June 2 - arrived in India on April 29 and will visit several states in India until November 30, 2011. In Guwahati the event was an opportunity to revive the message of peace and reconciliation in the region and across north-eastern India, marked by social and political tensions: the local Archbishop, Mgr.Thomas Menamparampil SDB, because of his work a great peacemaker and mediator in local conflicts, has been recently proposed for nomination to the Nobel Prize for Peace.
As the local Church reports to Fides, the saint's relics were welcomed in the Salesian institutes in the area. The Don Bosco Institute of Management organized a prayer vigil for 24 continuous hours (between 30 and 31 May), and the entire population of the diocese, Christians and non-Christians were able to rejoice and stay in prayer. Especially young people enjoyed the special opportunity: "Don Bosco - Bread Sara tells Fides, a student of the Salesian schools - reminds us that in life we can be better. His presence encourages us young people to always do good and to follow the great values and ideals, he is a great support for us ".
Salesian missionaries arrived in Assam in 1922. Today the Salesian community in Assam is very involved in the field of youth education, healthcare, socio-economic development. The relics of Don Bosco are making a pilgrimage to the five continents, launched on the occasion of the 150th anniversary of the foundation of the Salesians. (PA) (Agenzia Fides 03/06/2011)
