Tinsukia, Assam: In a heart-warming ceremony that echoed with reverence and jubilation, the Tinsukia Parish Auditorium witnessed a gathering of 200 people on June 9, 2024. The event marked the release of a documentary titled “100 Years of Grace: The Salesian Legacy of Fr. Mathew Pulingathil SDB” and the felicitation of 48 students who emerged triumphant in their Matric and Higher Secondary examinations.
The day commenced with a holy mass at 9:00 am, presided over by Fr. Jonas Kerketta, the Parish Priest and Rector of Tinsukia Parish. The mass served as a dedication of prayers for the students who had successfully cleared their examinations.
The much-anticipated documentary release ceremony took centre stage at noon. Fr. Blasius Tete skilfully moderated the proceedings, expressing his heartfelt gratitude to several individuals who played a pivotal role in bringing the documentary to life. These included Fr. Santosh Mundu SDB, the delegate for the Social Communication Commission of Dimapur Province; Flavius Jojo, the documentary’s editor and a former NDTV news editor; and Mr. Lawrence Dhanwar, who assisted with editing and provided the voice-over.
The documentary unveiling ceremony was a sight to behold. Fr. Mathew Pulingathil SDB himself, along with a distinguished panel comprising Fr. Jonas Kerketta (Parish Priest and Rector of Don Bosco High School Gelapukhuri, Tinsukia, Assam), Fr. Blasius Tete SDB, (Coordinator of YaR and Migrant Desk, Dimapur Province) Fr. Sandeep Barla SDB (Administrator of Bordumsa, Arunachal Pradesh), Mr. PA Thomas (a former student of Fr. Mathew), and Mr. David Ekka (a Block Development Manager), ceremoniously released the documentary. The students presented Fr. Mathew Pulingathil with a traditional gamusa as a token of respect.
Speaking in Hindi, Fr. Mathew reminisced about his life as a missionary, fondly recalling his 27 years of service at the Tinsukia Parish. He vividly painted a picture of his experiences, which included celebrating holy mass in villages, screening Bible films and stories of saints, conducting elocution practice for hostel boys, providing medical care, and imparting valuable lessons on serving at the Altar and delivering goodnight talks to the boarding boys. The documentary’s official launch was marked by the unveiling of a poster and its subsequent upload onto the newly established YouTube channel of the Dimapur Province.
Following the documentary’s release, the Tinsukia Parish youth committee took center stage to felicitate the 48 meritorious students from the parish. Each student was presented with a file, a gamusa, a pen, and a certificate in recognition of their academic achievements. The felicitation ceremony was meticulously structured, incorporating a delightful blend of cultural performances and inspiring speeches.
The ceremony commenced with a warm welcome address extended to the chief guest and the students. This was followed by a graceful prayer dance performance presented by the Chandmari Tea Estate, setting a serene tone for the event. Fr. Jonas Kerketta SDB, the Rector and Parish Priest, then delivered an inspiring welcome speech, brimming with warmth and encouragement.
The felicitation ceremony unfolded in two rounds, with the first 20 students receiving their due recognition. To add a vibrant touch to the proceedings, an energetic dance performance by the Noloni Tea Estate was presented in between the felicitation rounds.
Sir David Ekka, a devout parishioner and a Block Development Manager, graced the occasion as the chief guest. In his address, he instilled valuable advice in the students, urging them to excel in their studies, express gratitude towards their parents, and strive for admission into prestigious colleges. He emphasized the importance of education, proclaiming “Knowledge is power” and motivating the students to seek guidance through prayer and explore diverse career options.
The felicitation continued with the recognition of the remaining 20 students. Fr. Blasius Tete SDB then delivered a heartfelt message, emphasizing that “Education is a matter of the heart.” He outlined the purpose of education as nurturing “Good Christians and honest citizens of the country” and advised the students to seek wisdom and knowledge through prayers to the Holy Spirit. He further emphasized the importance of reading the Bible before studying, advocating for the development of well-rounded individuals. He urged the students to cultivate a love for reading and limit their dependence on mobile phones.
Lucky Bagh, a student representative from the Higher Secondary section, shared his personal academic journey. He spoke candidly about his initial struggles, his swift adaptation to the English language, and the unwavering support from his family that fuelled his confidence and success.
The event culminated with a vote of thanks delivered by Dipak Bag, the Youth President, expressing gratitude to all attendees and those who contributed to the event’s success. A communal lunch marked the conclusion of the heart-warming ceremony, providing a platform for the attendees to reflect on the day