Young Sisters of The Daughters of Mary Help of Christians Renew Commitment Through Formation and Faith

Mumbai, May 30, 2026: A spirit of renewal, reflection and recommitment marked a ten-day formation programme for the young sisters of the St. Mary Mazzarello Province, Mumbai, held at the Mazzarello Youth Centre, Wadala, from May 14 to 24.

Organised under the guidance of Provincial Sr. Meenakshi D’Silva and coordinated by Vice-Provincial Sr. Priscilla Travasso, the annual renewal programme brought together young religious sisters for spiritual enrichment, personal growth and preparation for the forthcoming academic year.

The programme offered a rich blend of formation sessions addressing contemporary challenges and the deeper dimensions of consecrated life. Among the key resource persons, Sr. Ira Viegas explored the importance of effective communication and responsible engagement with digital media, while Sr. Philomena D’Souza reflected on women disciples in the Gospels and the significance of Mary within the Church and the Salesian tradition.

Sr. Teresa Joseph led thought-provoking sessions on the joys and challenges of religious life, encouraging the sisters to become “whisperers of hope” for young people entrusted to their care and ministry.

A day of recollection and the Sacrament of Reconciliation, animated by Fr. Saby, provided participants with an opportunity for prayerful introspection and spiritual renewal. Other sessions focused on ecological responsibility, ongoing conversion, and a deeper understanding of the evangelical vow of poverty in today’s world.

Addressing the participants, Sr. Meenakshi D’Silva urged the sisters to cultivate a strong prayer life, practise prudent time management and bear authentic witness to their vocation through joyful and committed living.

One of the highlights of the programme was a pilgrimage to Mount Mary Basilica in Bandra, where the sisters entrusted their lives and mission to the Blessed Virgin Mary. The pilgrimage was followed by a community outing that fostered fraternity and fellowship. Participants also engaged in reflective assignments based on Rooted in the Covenant, a key document for Salesian formation.

The renewal programme reached a significant milestone on May 23 when three sisters made their perpetual profession during a solemn Eucharistic celebration presided over by Bishop Dominic Savio. Reflecting on the theme, “Yours Forever,” the bishop emphasised the profound meaning of lifelong fidelity to God and the Church through consecrated life.

The celebrations concluded on May 24, the Feast of Mary Help of Christians, which coincided this year with Pentecost. During a solemn Eucharistic celebration, twelve temporarily professed sisters renewed their vows in the presence of Sr. Priscilla Travasso. Presiding over the Mass, Fr. Vinod Mascarenhas, SDB, highlighted the indispensable role of the Holy Spirit in guiding and sustaining every vocational journey.

The programme served as a meaningful time of grace and renewal, strengthening the young sisters in their commitment to live the Salesian charism with zeal, hope and missionary enthusiasm.

Young Sisters of The Daughters of Mary Help of Christians Renew Commitment Through Formation and Faith

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