by Father Bernard Fernandes
MUMBAI, FEB 3, 2018: On the occasion of the feast of Saint John Bosco, the staff communities of Don Bosco High School, Matunga and Don Bosco International School, Matunga, numbering around 200, came together on January 31 to celebrate their patron saint and founder.
Festivities began with the holy Eucharist being celebrated in Crypt of the Shrine of Don Bosco's Madonna at 10.30 am. Father Crispino D'Souza, the Rector, presided over the holy Eucharist. He was joined by the Principal, Father Bernard Fernandes and Administrator, Father Roy Noronha, who were the concelebrants.
In his homily, Father D'Souza dwelt on the lives of different Salesians who impacted his life during his impressionable years, from standard eight onwards, and helped him become a good Salesian. He said that it was Don Bosco – whom he never saw and met in his life – that he encountered in these Salesians, and he welcomed all to be living witnesses of the father and founder Don Bosco.
Following holy Mass, a series of games were organised by Father Leon Rodrigues with his team of youth. Camaraderie and laughter, friendly chats, 'naughty' sidestepping of the rules of the party games, dancing, an appetising meal were some of the fond memories of the day.
"I am so glad to be associated with the management and our core team in the platinum jubilee year of our school. The culmination of our jubilee was so fitting - the coming together of two families! A memorable one for all of us. A new beginning to a great future," Anita Phillip, DBHS supervisor, said.
Christina Mascarenhas, another senior DBHS supervisor quipped, "The beginning of something good. It was indeed a happy meeting place for the two staff communities and the members couldn't wait for the next reunion to happen."
Meena Saldanha, Principal of DBIS, put it succinctly, "It's time we come together for our outings and educational programmes."