Mylin Noronha sdb NASHIK, NOVEMBER 10, 2008: In response to the call of GC 26 to ‘organize vocational groups and gatherings which have a process of discernment and accompaniment’, Fr. Brian Morias organized a three day vocation camp for a few youth from Mumbai and Baroda to 
give them an experience of seeing Salesian life from close quarters and discerning God’s call for themselves. While the seven Mumbai boys arrived only on November 8, the two boys from Baroda reached on 7th morning. Since they were early they received the unadulterated attention of the Divyadaan brothers and also enjoyed a rare treat – to join the brothers for a philosophy of God class from Fr. Savio D’souza. Their questions and clarifications proved that they not only understood but were also interested in philosophy. The rest of the gang, on arriving took some time out to catch on a few winks, to refresh themselves from a tiring journey. However, their recharged batteries were immediately discharged on the football ground when they joined the brothers for games. That night they were invited the Novitiate Community of STI for dinner, where they got a chance to mingle with the Holy Novices. On Sunday 9, morning, they were able to meet many different religious at the celebration of the Eucharist in the Don Bosco Parish. Late in the morning Fr. Savio D’Souza, the Rector of Divyadaan, addressed them. He briefed them about the whole process of formations and the various helps and difficulties on the way. He also answered their queries about religious life and the obligations involved. After tea, they left two by two, along with the brothers to have their own little encounter with the youth at the local oratories. It was a good occasion for them to have a first hand experience of young Salesians working with the poor and abandoned youth. The boys also took a little time off to visit the other Salesian houses in the campus. Most of the time, however, the boys spent their time being with the brothers, talking to them and experiencing Salesian life. The brothers on their part took the initiative in not only talking and sharing their experience with them but also encouraging them to discern if God was calling them to follow this way of life. Looking at the enthusiasm of the boys, it seems many of these youngsters will not only join us, but also encourage other youth to consider the Salesian way of life.
give them an experience of seeing Salesian life from close quarters and discerning God’s call for themselves. While the seven Mumbai boys arrived only on November 8, the two boys from Baroda reached on 7th morning. Since they were early they received the unadulterated attention of the Divyadaan brothers and also enjoyed a rare treat – to join the brothers for a philosophy of God class from Fr. Savio D’souza. Their questions and clarifications proved that they not only understood but were also interested in philosophy. The rest of the gang, on arriving took some time out to catch on a few winks, to refresh themselves from a tiring journey. However, their recharged batteries were immediately discharged on the football ground when they joined the brothers for games. That night they were invited the Novitiate Community of STI for dinner, where they got a chance to mingle with the Holy Novices. On Sunday 9, morning, they were able to meet many different religious at the celebration of the Eucharist in the Don Bosco Parish. Late in the morning Fr. Savio D’Souza, the Rector of Divyadaan, addressed them. He briefed them about the whole process of formations and the various helps and difficulties on the way. He also answered their queries about religious life and the obligations involved. After tea, they left two by two, along with the brothers to have their own little encounter with the youth at the local oratories. It was a good occasion for them to have a first hand experience of young Salesians working with the poor and abandoned youth. The boys also took a little time off to visit the other Salesian houses in the campus. Most of the time, however, the boys spent their time being with the brothers, talking to them and experiencing Salesian life. The brothers on their part took the initiative in not only talking and sharing their experience with them but also encouraging them to discern if God was calling them to follow this way of life. Looking at the enthusiasm of the boys, it seems many of these youngsters will not only join us, but also encourage other youth to consider the Salesian way of life.