Around 270 children and teachers including sisters and priests from Bandel, Liluah, and Kalyani came together at Bandel Church on 27th October 2024, to celebrate inter-parish Catechetical Day - a joyful event filled with faith-based activities and competitions. Hosted by Bandel Parish, the event began in the Parish Hall, where attendees were welcomed warmly at registration and served breakfast, supported by dedicated volunteers, setting a positive and inclusive tone for the day.

By 10 a.m., catechetical sessions were in full swing. Under the guidance of Father Kumudo Kuriakose Digal, Director of Catechetical Ministry, children engaged in interactive discussions on the Holy Eucharist. The session then transitioned into a moment of spiritual reflection with Praise and Adoration, and many participants received the Sacrament of Reconciliation, deepening their connection to their faith.

At noon, all gathered for a solemn celebration of the Holy Eucharist in the historic Bandel Basilica. Led by the main celebrant, Father Chandan Banerjee, with heartfelt readings from each parish, the sacrament of communion became the true heart of Catechetical Day.

A community lunch followed in Fatima Hall, where parish representatives ensured everyone was well served. It was a wonderful time for fellowship, as attendees bonded over a shared meal, strengthening community ties.

In the afternoon, cultural events took the spotlight, showcasing the talent of each parish. From an uplifting welcome dance by Bandel’s Sunday school teachers to spirited choirs, skits, and prayer dances, the performances brought biblical stories to life and embodied a vibrant display of community spirit.

The day continued with a Bible Quiz, sparking excitement and testing biblical knowledge, followed by a projector show featuring highlights from each parish. In a show of commitment and enthusiasm, Kalyani emerged as the standout participant in the catechetical events. The event also honoured Catechism teachers who have dedicated over a decade to nurturing children’s faith and education - a heartfelt tribute to their service.

The day concluded with a vote of thanks from Fr. Kumudo, followed by a final tea gathering, marking the end of Catechetical Day 2024 with cherished memories and a strengthened education to faith.

On October 17th, 2024, a workshop was held for the sisters belonging to the congregation of St. Anne’s of Chennai. This course was designed to aid participants in becoming more effective in their pastoral ministry. The workshop was divided into three sections. Initially, the participants received logistical information pertaining to family visits, visits to the sick, and how to prepare individuals for liturgical celebrations in villages. The subsequent part of the workshop was centred around preparing children for their First Holy Communion as well as providing a brief explanation of the Mass. Lastly, the workshop covered the use of social media in catechesis with a focus on a few do’s and don’ts. Father Kumudo Kuriakose Digal, the Catechetical Director of Nitika, was the resource person of the day. The workshop had 32 participants who expressed satisfaction with the sessions and provided positive feedback regarding how it would benefit them in their parishes and other settings of their ministry. 

The Mission Seminar was organized jointly by the Mission, Higher Education, and Education to Faith commissions in preparation for the centenary celebrations of the Salesian Province of Kolkata in May 2026. This National Seminar, titled "Mission, Evangelization, & Faith Formation: Rejuvenating the Mission - 100 years of Salesians in Kolkata," was held from October 9-12 at Salesian College (Autonomous), Sonada. There were around 120 participants, including resource persons and other dignitaries. 

Renowned experts in theology, scripture, mission, education, evangelization, and catechesis presented their papers on various topics, such as the biblical basis for mission and evangelization, digital media in catechesis, the beginning of Salesian Mission in Calcutta Province, lived faith as a paradigm for new evangelization, the impact of Christian education in India, new frontiers in evangelization and faith formation, socio-developmental involvement as part of evangelization, what is Indian about the Indian Church, and how difficulties bring redemption.

During breakout sessions the veteran missionaries including the members of the Salesian family shared their experiences of working in the missions. On the last day these missionaries were given mementos in recognition and appreciation of their dedicated work in the missions for many years. The main aim of this seminar was to inspire young Salesians for missions and to rejuvenate the mission activity of the Province.