Salesian Formation Programmes Equip Young People for Faith-Filled Leadership in the Digital Age

Mumbai, July 16, 2026: A series of Salesian animation and formation programmes led by Sr. Betty Menezes across Maharashtra and Goa has inspired hundreds of students, teachers and boarding students to embrace faith, responsible leadership and ethical engagement with the digital world.

Held during June and July at Auxilium School, Mumbai, Auxilium School, Ahmednagar, Auxilium School, Benaulim, and Sulcorna Boarding, Goa, the programmes combined spiritual formation with practical learning in media literacy, care for creation and collaborative leadership. Rooted in the Salesian charism, the initiative sought to nurture young people capable of witnessing Gospel values in contemporary society.

The sessions drew inspiration from the Strenna 2026 of Rector Major Don Fabio Attard, SDB, “Do Whatever He Tells You,” inviting participants to place Christ at the centre of their lives and respond generously to God's call through service, responsibility and hope.

A significant feature of the programme was the Youth Pastoral Project, inspired by the teachings of Pope Leo XIV. Reflecting on the biblical images of Babel and Jerusalem, Sr. Betty encouraged participants to recognise the dangers of pride, division and self-interest while embracing the values of unity, humility, teamwork and shared leadership that build vibrant Christian communities.

Responding to the Church's call for integral human development, the formation also emphasised care for creation, urging young people to become responsible stewards of the environment through simple but meaningful actions in their daily lives.

Media education formed another major component of the programme. Participants explored the opportunities and challenges presented by Artificial Intelligence, AI tools, photography and digital communication, while reflecting on the importance of using technology ethically. Sr. Betty stressed that human intelligence, compassion and moral responsibility must remain at the heart of technological progress.

The participants were also introduced to the mission of the Salesian Social Communication Sector, gaining insights into the role of Media Coordinators and the evangelising potential of media in education and pastoral ministry.

The programmes adopted a highly interactive approach, featuring workshops, group discussions, creative drawing sessions and project presentations. Students from Wadala, Ahmednagar and Benaulim presented their School Projects, outlining practical ways of fostering Gospel-centred school communities marked by respect, collaboration, inclusion and service.

Similarly, boarding students at Sulcorna shared their Boarding Project, proposing initiatives to strengthen fraternity, discipline, responsibility and mutual support within their residential community.

Concluding the formation journey, Sr. Betty returned to Mumbai after completing the programmes across Maharashtra and Goa. The initiative reflected the Salesian commitment to accompanying young people in their integral formation, helping them grow as disciples of Christ, responsible digital citizens and compassionate leaders capable of bringing hope, justice and communion to both the Church and society.

By integrating faith formation with media education, ecological awareness and leadership development, the programmes offered young people a holistic vision of Christian discipleship, preparing them to live the Gospel with confidence and creativity in an increasingly digital world.

By Salesian sisters of Don Bosco

Province of St. Mary Mazzarello, Bombay (INB)