BIS #1820 SURF AND SAND, BOSCOWADI CALLING!


Michael Gaikwad sdb & Brian Moras sdb
UTTAN, APRIL 19, 2010: The two ‘Surf and Sand Camps’ at Boscowadi, Uttan organized by the Don Bosco Youth Services Matunga, were a big hit with the youngsters this summer. The camp for the seniors was from 7- 10 April in which 29 youngsters participated and the second camp was for the junior group (youngsters of Std. VIII – X) from 13- 16 April in which 68 youngsters participated.

On arrival at the Camp Site, the youngsters were welcomed by the camp chief Fr. Brian Moras. This was followed by ice breakers and snacks. An eventful session of tent pitching and repitching for those teams which got it wrong followed.
The evenings were full of tournaments and fun filled relay games. A refreshing swim in the beautiful waters of the Uttan beach, all in bright orange life jackets and thrilling water games ushered in the twilight. The first evenings Eucharist was a celebration in which we invoked God to bless our camp. At the Eucharist the camp site was blessed by Fr. Glenford Lowe. The day ended with a mini camp fire.
Music ushered in the second day. This was followed by a session on creative worship conducted by the Frs. Glen and Brian. Breakfast was followed by Inspection and a session on inward journey. Post lunch the youngsters trekked to the light house. Climbing to the very top of the light house was an exhilarating experience. The breathtaking beauty of Uttan from such a great height was memorable. The afternoons on each day were occupied by spare time activity of keychain making, marble painting and statue making.
On the second evening the campers made a night pilgrimage to the shrine of Our Lady, paying their respects also to the Cross on the mountain.
Teambuilding and team work was enhanced by a creative competition of moving through the cobweb made of rope stretched across trees. The third day we focused on God’s call in our lives and our response to it. The Brs. Jesu and Michael shared their vocation stories with the youngsters encouraging them to be generous and daring in answering God’s call in their lives. Post lunch the youngsters were briefed and given time to prepare for the grand camp fire.

Daily reporting’s, inspections and action songs kept the youngsters energetic and enthusiastic throughout the camp. The grand camp fire was an extravagant affair of fun and competitions such as fashion shows, fancy dress, parade, skits based on values and Kim’s observation game.

The final day began with the Eucharist followed by the competitive camp quiz in which Don Bosco featured prominently. Dismantling tents was another eventful ceremony, followed by a community service of cleaning the campsite.
The youngsters benefitted from the camp, growing in leadership qualities, learning to live independently and courageously and discovering their potential.