By C.M. Paul
KALIMPONG, August 3, 2026: The faithful of St Alphonsa Quasi Parish, Samthar, celebrated a historic milestone as Jennifer Lepcha, as the first youth from the parish to earn a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) degree, was felicitated during the parish patronal feast on August 1.
Samthar is a remote, mountainous village in the Kalimpong district, nestled amid forests and terraced hills near the Indo-Bhutan border.
Isolated by winding roads and limited infrastructure, the village remains one of the region’s less accessible communities. Despite its remoteness, Samthar is known for its close-knit community, rich cultural heritage, and the dedicated educational, pastoral, and social services provided by the Salesians of Don Bosco, which have expanded opportunities for local youth.
Jennifer, who completed her MBBS from Purulia Medical College and Hospital, received the Certificate of Appreciation from Bishop Stephen Lepcha of the Diocese of Darjeeling-Sikkim in the presence of clergy, religious and parishioners.
The honour was conferred on behalf of the parish priest, Father Savio Rai, the parish community and the Salesian Community in recognition of her academic achievement and inspiring example for young people.
The citation praised Jennifer’s perseverance, dedication and commitment in completing the rigorous medical programme and expressed confidence that she would serve society with compassion, integrity and professional excellence.
It described her achievement as a matter of pride not only for her family but also for the entire parish and the Salesian family.
The felicitation formed part of the annual feast of St Alphonsa, the patroness of the quasi parish, bringing together Catholics from the region in prayer and thanksgiving.
The celebration also recalled the remarkable growth of the Salesians’ pastoral presence in Samthar since the mission was established in 2017 under the leadership of Fr Savio Rai.
In just nine years, the mission has evolved into a vibrant quasi parish under Suruk Parish, situated about seven kilometres away.
Today, it serves 74 Catholic families and operates a Don Bosco School up to Class VIII, providing quality education and faith formation to children in the remote hill community.
Speaking on the occasion, Bishop Stephen Lepcha congratulated Jennifer on her outstanding accomplishment and encouraged young people to pursue higher education while remaining rooted in Christian values and a spirit of service.
Jennifer’s success marks a significant milestone in the history of St Alphonsa Quasi Parish and stands as a testament to the transformative impact of Salesian education and pastoral ministry.
Her achievement is expected to inspire many more young people from the remote Samthar region to pursue professional education and dedicate their talents to the service of society.