Rector Major Fr. Fabio Attard Calls for Skill, Synergy and Spiritual Depth at SPCI New Delhi
12 Feb 2026
Rector Major Fr. Fabio Attard Calls for Skill, Synergy and Spiritual Depth at SPCI New Delhi
11 February 2026
Animation, Rector Major, SPCSA, Salesian Society,
News written by: Fr. Patrick Lepcha/Fr. John Parankimalil
The SPCI House, New Delhi, had the distinct honour of welcoming the Rector Major, Fr. Fabio Attard, on the evening of 10 February. His visit marked a significant moment of grace and animation for the Salesian community and the various regional networks operating from the Secretariat of the Salesian Provincial Conference of South Asia (SPCSA).
In his address, the Rector Major emphasized the urgent and prophetic importance of technical education and skilling for employability, particularly in India and South Asia, where millions of young people aspire to dignified work and a meaningful future. He underlined that Salesian institutions must continue to respond creatively and professionally to this challenge, ensuring that training centres not only impart technical competence but also nurture integrity, discipline, and responsibility.
He spoke at length about the importance of soft skills and character development, emphasizing that employability extends beyond technical proficiency. According to him, communication skills, teamwork, leadership, emotional maturity, and ethical values are indispensable elements in forming “good Christians and honest citizens,” in the spirit of St. John Bosco.
Another central theme of his reflection was the vital role of lay collaboration. He acknowledged with gratitude the dedicated service of lay partners in the Salesian mission and stressed that the Congregation's future depends on a strong, well-formed, and mission-driven partnership between Salesians and lay collaborators. The charism of Don Bosco, he noted, is a gift to the Church and to the world, and it flourishes most effectively when shared in communion.
The interaction concluded with tea, during which the Rector Major informally engaged with staff and community members, encouraging them in their respective responsibilities.
Later in the evening, the Rector Major met with the Department Heads and Coordinators of various networks. The meeting was graced by the presence of Fr. Biju Michael, General Councillor for South Asia, and Fr. Davis Maniparamben, Provincial of New Delhi.
The session began with a historical note on the SPCI Community presented by the Rector of the House, Fr. Joseph Manippadeth, highlighting its evolution as a centre of coordination and animation for the South Asia Region.
Subsequently, various network heads and coordinators presented their reports:
Fr. Patrick Lepcha outlined the mission and activities of Don Bosco Youth Animation (DBYA), as well as related initiatives aimed at youth empowerment.
Fr. John Parankimalil, SPCSA Secretary, presented an overview of the Secretariat's functioning, including its role in coordinating Don Bosco Schools and higher education institutions across the region.
Fr. George Mathew shared updates on DB Tech India, focusing on skill development, employability initiatives, and partnerships.
Fr. Santhanaraj presented Bosconet's work, particularly its coordination of development projects and fundraising efforts.
Fr. Joe Prabu spoke about the DB YAR Forum and its engagement with youth at risk.
Fr. Francis Bosco highlighted the Migrant Ministry, emphasizing outreach to displaced and vulnerable populations.
Fr. Joseph Panippadeth presented an overview of the Salesian Family and the collaborative spirit among its various groups.
The Rector Major encouraged greater synergy across sectors, professional accountability, and deep spiritual roots within the Preventive System. He commended the Secretariat for its structured coordination and for fostering unity among diverse apostolates.
In his concluding remarks, Fr. Biju Michael underscored the importance of advancing the Region’s “Mission Poverty Eradication” initiative across all sectors. He called upon all networks to collaborate to address systemic poverty and remain faithful to the Salesian preferential option for the poor.
On 11 February, the Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes, the Rector Major celebrated Holy Mass for the SPCI Community. He invoked God’s blessings upon the community and entrusted the mission of the South Asia Region to the maternal care of Mary, Help of Christians. He reminded the confreres that their strength lies in communion, simplicity of life, and zeal for souls.
He commended the significant work undertaken by the SPCSA Secretariat in animating and coordinating the Salesian charism across South Asia. He recognized the dedication of the confreres and lay collaborators who strive to make Don Bosco’s dream a living reality for the young, especially the poor and marginalized.
After breakfast, the Rector Major departed for the Ashalayam Community, continuing his pastoral visit.
