BIS #4468 DISCERNING A VOCATION

by BIS Correspondent

 

MUMBAI, JUNE 23, 2015:  What is God's plan for you? 26 boys sought the answer to this question at the annual vocation camp organized by the Salesians of Kuwait from June 11 to 13.


The camp focused on three dimensions of faith, i.e. me, others and Christ. The youth took part in a number of interactive sessions to help them open their minds and hearts to God's voice.

 

Father Lionel Braganza SDB, the chief coordinator of the camp, set the tone for the camp each day with a number of action songs. He also shared information on the founders and charisms of different priestly congregations.

 

The theme for the first day was 'Who am I?'  Father Ben Barrameda addressed the children on the life of a Diocesan priest. 

 

'Living in this world' was the theme for day two and Father Francis Kharjia SDB, introduced the youth to the Salesian life and charism.

 

The theme for the final day was 'Following Christ'. Father Noel D'Almeida OFM, shared with the youth about the Capuchins.

 

Father Franco Pereira SDB, also conducted a daily session on 'prayer moments' through which he showed the youth ways to incorporate prayer into their daily routine. Father Johnson Nedumpurath SDB and Father Blany Pinto SDB, also helped in engaging the young boys. 

 

A session on testimonies from family members of priests and nuns was incorporated into the programme for the first time. Mrs Fortes, the mother of Ethan Fortes who will join Don Bosco, Lonavla in June - shared her thoughts.

 

The sisters of Father Joe Ameida, a missionary in the North East, also shared their happiness of having a priest in their family.

 

Father Johnson, who celebrates the silver jubilee of his first profession, celebrated holy mass on the last day. He shared his own vocation story during his homily, which helped inspire those present.

 

"It was a wonderful experience. I learnt a lot from the talks given by the various priests. It was a joy to see the youngsters so very attentive and docile," Elvis D'mello, a Salesian cooperator, said.

 

"I had a memorable experience at the vocation camp. I came to know more about priesthood and the manner in which one ought to discern God's will," Ethan Dsouza, another youth at the camp added.

 

A campfire at the end of the camp helped ignite a little lamp in the hearts of the youth to guide them in discerning the Lord's voice more clearly.