The Feast of St. John Bosco, the Founder of the Salesian congregation and the patron saint of Don Bosco School, Alaknanda, was celebrated with great zeal and devotion at Don Bosco School, Alaknanda, on 31 January 2025. The day began with the Holy Mass followed by a sumptuous breakfast that brought together students, faculty, staff and guests, marking the occasion as one of joy, unity, and spiritual reflection.
The celebration commenced in the morning with the Holy Mass in the school auditorium. The Mass was attended by the Christian students, parents, teachers and staff members, retired faculty, past pupils and distinguished guests.
Rev. Msgr. Juan Pablo, Secretary to Apostolic Nuncio to India, was the main celebrant. He highlighted the importance of St. John Bosco’s legacy in shaping the lives of young people. Reflecting on St. John Bosco’s vision of education and emphasizing his commitment to providing care, guidance, and faith-based education to the youth , he urged everyone to draw inspiration from Don Bosco’s life of service, compassion, and dedication. Rev. Fr. Binny Issac SDB, Rector and Director, Don Bosco School Alaknanda, and Rev. Fr. George Manimala, Parish priest of Holy Spirit Church, Alaknanada, Rev. Fr. Sujith Augustine SDB, Principal, Don Bosco School, Alaknanda, , Rev. Fr. Anup Minj SDB, Administrator, Don Bosco School, Alaknanda, Rev. Fr. Naresh Kujur SDB Rev. Fr. Kuriakose SDB, Rev. Fr. Charles Lobo SDB and Rev. Fr. Johny P SDB were the concelebrants
The students and teachers actively participated in the Mass with readings, prayers of the faithful, and hymns. The choir, composed of talented students and teachers .Rev. Fr. Ashok Ekka, Vice Principal, Don Bosco School, Alaknanda, led the congregation in singing hymns , creating an atmosphere of reverence and celebration.
The Mass concluded with a blessing for all the students and staff, asking for guidance and strength in their journey of faith and learning. Rev. Msgr. Juan Pablo encouraged the congregation to continue embodying the values of Don Bosco and his faith in the youth.
Following the Mass, the school arranged for a festive breakfast. The sumptuous breakfast was a much-anticipated part of the celebration, bringing together people of all ages to share in the joy of the occasion.
The celebration of the Feast of St. John Bosco at Don Bosco School, Alaknanda, was a wonderful occasion marked by a deep sense of reverence, introspection and joy. The Holy Mass served as a meaningful reminder of the school’s mission to provide Don Bosco’s Preventive System of education rooted in faith and guidance, while the breakfast that followed created an opportunity for fellowship and camaraderie.
Debanjana Sinha Roy
PGT, English