BIS #4440 VOCATIONS CAMPS AT LONAVALA 2015

by BIS Correspondent 

MATUNGA-MUMBAI, MAY 17, 2015: The cradle of vocations to the Mumbai province, Don Bosco -Lonavala, hosted two vocation camps beginning from May 2-12, 2015. Sixty Five IMG_20150502_185424.jpgenthusiastic young boys participated in these camps. The house of Lonavla, with its beauty and inspiring history, gave way to a wonderful experience to the campers.

The theme for the first day was 'Discover Yourself and Talents'. After getting to know each other, the campers were divided into teams. The Vice Provincial, Fr. Ajoy Fernandes, introduced all the animators and volunteers, and explained the meaning, and purpose of the camp. Thereafter, the boys made their commitments for the camp. The evening session by Fr. Fernandes, helped each one discover their talents and make the best use of them, by offering them to the Lord.

The theme of the second day was 'Discover Don Bosco'. The day began with the Eucharist on the theme 'Five Loaves and Two Fish.' Fr. Solomon, the Rector, in his homily, focused on theme of generosity of the little boy in the gospel. In order to know and understand Don Bosco, a short movie was screened and discussed.  Thereafter, a panel discussion was held to introduce the campers to the various Salesian works that were in the province. Fr. Xavier Devdas and Br. Ramesh Durairaj were also present for the same. In the afternoon, the seniors prepared ecological projects with the use of charts and skits while the juniors learnt to make key chains. The singing classes helped the campers, to participate well, in the daily Eucharist, Praise and Worship and the Taize prayer service. The evening was filled with fun as the campers participated DSC02851.JPGin lightening tournaments.

As regards the spiritual aspect there was daily Eucharist. The most liked spiritual activity was the labyrinth prayer garden experience. It offered the youngsters a time of grace with sacred silence, of going deep into self and to make an outward journey to accept life and live it fully. 

The third day focused on theme of the Good Samaritan in a modern day context, with an animated meditation, by Fr. McEnroe lopes. Fr. Glenford Lowe led the campers on the 'Call of the various prophets. In the afternoon, the campers went to Kune mission to have an experience of the work being done by the Salesian sisters.

The teachers from the three streams of the Junior College were called to speak to the aspirants about the subjects and the curriculum of the Junior College. Fr. Solomon Rapol Rector of Don Bosco Lonavala spoke about the annual activities and academics of the Junior College. The camp culminated with the feast of St. Dominic Savio celebrated with a meaningful Eucharist. The main celebrant for the solemn mass on the eve of the feast of Dominic Savio was Fr. Provincial Fr. Godfrey D'Souza, concelebrants Fr. Savio Silvera, Fr. Ajoy Fernandes, Fr. Glen Lowe, Fr. McEnroe, Fr. Gregory   D'cuna, and Fr. Solomon Rapol.  It was   followed by the 'Savio Nite' which aimed at getting to know and imitate the teenage saint Dominic Savio with a prayer, fun and entertainment.

It was a memorable and learning experience both for the campers as well as the organizers.