- 08 August, 2025
Meghalaya, August 8, 2025: Sacred Heart Theological College (SHTC), Mawlai, marked the beginning of a new academic chapter with the solemn inauguration of the 2025–2026 academic year on Thursday, 7 August, in a spirit of gratitude, reflection, and renewed commitment to theological formation.
The day began in the morning with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist at the Sacred Heart Shrine, presided over by the Fr. General Councillor for Formation, who also served as the Guest of Honour. The liturgy set a deeply spiritual tone, with the Gospel reminding the faithful of the extraordinary work of the Holy Spirit and Jesus’ call to Peter to lead the Apostles.
After refreshments, the inaugural ceremony took place in the Sylvanus Sngi Memorial Auditorium. It opened with a hymn to the Holy Spirit and the lighting of the lamp, symbolising wisdom and knowledge. A graceful prayer dance by students of the Integrated Training for Laity and Religious (ITLR) created a reverent and vibrant atmosphere.
Dr. Jose Vettath SDB, Vice Rector of SHTC, led the Scripture reading and prayer before Dr. Sunil Barla SDB, Rector of SHTC, welcomed and felicitated the distinguished guests. Dr. Jose Anikuzhikattil SDB, Vice Director, presented the annual report, reflecting on the past year’s academic, spiritual, and formational milestones, while outlining future plans. Musical performances by the Baccalaureate students across all three years enriched the event with joy and community spirit.
A key moment was the inaugural address by Dr. Stephen Mavely SDB, Vice Chancellor Emeritus of Assam Don Bosco University, who reflected on the transformative role of Scripture in shaping pastoral agents. The Guest of Honour, Fr. General Councillor for Formation, delivered an inspiring message on formation rooted in Gospel values and the charism of Don Bosco, underlining the global unity of the Salesian mission.
The release of newly published books by Dr. Jose Anikuzhikattil SDB and Fr. Raphael Risterland Maiong SDB highlighted the scholarly contributions of the SHTC community. Messages from Dr. John Zosiama SDB, Provincial of SDB-INS and Moderator of the Governing Board, and Victor Lyngdoh, Archbishop of Shillong, encouraged both academic excellence and pastoral commitment.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks from Fr. Timothy Gangmei SDB, Registrar, followed by a concluding prayer from Sr. Rosa Pyngrope FMA, Provincial of FMA-INS. The final hymn to Don Bosco captured the spirit of the Salesian family, while skilled compering by Bro. Joyal VC and Bro. Salmon SDB ensured the smooth flow of the proceedings.
The day ended with a fraternal lunch in the SHTC Dining Hall, fostering camaraderie among guests, staff, and students. The event served not only as the ceremonial opening of the academic year but also as a renewed call to live out the mission of embodying Christ in today’s world.
By Bro. John Avinash
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