The morning session was shared by Fr Stefano Martoglio and Fr Ivo Coelho on the theme “Identity of Salesians in South Asia: Consolidation or Expansion.” In the evening, Fr Àngel Fernández Artime, the tenth Succesor of Don Bosco emphasised, that the service to the poor should be the only criterion for all the presences in South Asia. He said, “We should be convinced that the poor are the only justification of all our presences, and we should guarantee that those most in need have every access to these quality services. The choices of the provincial should not change and should be based on this. They should ensure that every institution is justified by this cause, because service to poor youth is the justification for our institution”.
The presence of Cardinal Poola Anthony, the Archbishop of Archdiocese of Hyderabad added joy to the concluding ceremony. Speaking to the South Asia Team visit members he exhorted the Salesians to live the charism “to review, to restore and to rise” to the present situations, especially by becoming yeast in the present society. The cardinal appreciated the Salesians for the variety of ministries they carried out and for their unwavering commitment towards the poor youth. He too emphasised that the option for the poorest and neediest boys and girls and young people is definitely a vital part of the Salesian identity.
Fr Àngel Fernández Artime, the Rector Major and Fr Stefano Mortoglio, the Vicar of the Rector Major felicitated the Cardinal Poola Anthony for his august presence. The tenth Successor of Don Bosco and all the General Councillors were felicitated by the provincials and their council members. The meeting concluded with the final blessings by the Cardinal Poola Anthony.
