TURA: Don Bosco Salesian Fr Anthony Buccieri, who rendered his service in Garo Hills for more than 20 years, was posthumously awarded at the Republic Day celebrations at Dikki Bandi Stadium here.
The missionary was honoured for his social service and outstanding contribution to community development, literature and religious brotherhood.
Fr Albert Thyrniang, rector and principal of Don Bosco Higher Secondary School, Tura, accepted the special award on his behalf from West Garo Hills DC Ram Singh.
Born in Sicily, Italy on June 12, 1913, Fr Buccieri came to India in 1934. After completing his philosophical and theological studies he came to Tura in 1939. His stay in Garo Hills was interrupted due to World War II as he was sent to concentration camps at Mawlai, Deoli and Dehra Dun where he functioned as a professor of scripture.
When he was released in 1946 he went to work in South India for a year after which he returned to Tura. He was posted in different places, which include teaching theology in Mawlai, rector of Liluah, parish priest in Tura, Dalu, Upper Shillong and Mawkhar in Shillong and Spiritual Director at Bosco Mount in Rongkhon near Tura.
Fr Buccieri passed away on November 3, 1998, at Nazareth Hospital and his mortal remains were laid at Bosco Mount, where he spent his last days, on November 5.
It was while he was in Tura that the construction of the present day cathedral church began. He also started a primary school that is now Don Bosco Higher Secondary School. He was also responsible for opening many other schools, including a boarding facility for out-of-town students to stay and study. He also contributed much to Garo religious literature through his writings and publications. Sengbaa (Dawn), Kristian Bebera’ani (Christian beliefs), English-Garo Grammer, Kristoko Daksningani (imitation of Christ) and a translation of an Italian novel into Garo were some of his many contributions.
