Inauguration of the Academic Year 2023-2024

Divyadaan, Salesian Institute of Philosophy had the inauguration of its academic year 2023-2024 on 12th June.

The day began with a solemn Mass presided over by Fr. Savio Silveira, the Provincial of the Salesian Mumbai Province, and was con-celebrated by Fr. Leo D’monte, the Capuchin Vice-Provincial of the Bonaventure Maharashtra Province, Fr. Ashley Miranda, the Vice-Provincial of the Salesian Mumbai Province and Fr. Gregory D’Almeida, the Economer of the Salesian Mumbai Province and by all the priests of the neighboring communities. It was truly a moment of fraternal communion and love, united under our one Father in Heaven. In his homily, Fr. Savio Silveira spoke of how this year is not just a year to gain some information or knowledge, but to grow in wisdom which is required by the world today and also to form ourselves spiritually so that we grow in favor with God and our brothers. He encouraged the students to embark on a pursuit of intellectual growth and to form themselves better today to serve the Lord tomorrow by putting on the heart and mind of Christ and being another Christ in the world.

After the Holy Eucharist, refreshments were served followed by the inauguration ceremony. The program was commenced with a hymn to the Holy Spirit by the SYBPH students. Fr. Robert Pen, the Rector of the community welcomed the gathering and felicitated the Inaugural lecturer Sr. Florapia Brigida Borges. Fr. Jacob, the Registrar of the college, presented the annual report of the last academic year to the gathering and highlighted the key events that had taken place in 2022-2023. The inaugural lecturer Sr. Florapia presented the keynote address on the topic ‘The Lost Smiles: The Way Forward.’ The presentation covered important areas in the field of education. She spoke of the unhappiness that is observed among the students and reiterated the problems faced by the students, and went on to state how we should equip ourselves with the right mindsets and be filled with the gospel virtues so as to touch the lives of the students. She concluded her presentation by reminding the audience the basic care and love for children which are the most vital aspects that are required for educators and most importantly for us as religious.

The day was filled with joy and grace, and the students were left motivated to begin their academic journey towards growing in wisdom and expanding the horizons of their minds.