by Brother Clarence Martis
AHMEDNAGAR, APRIL 10, 2018: Boscoree 2018, an all India gathering of scouts and guides, is slated to be held in December, and preparations for the mega scouting event are gathering pace. On April 2, 26 Salesians (fathers and brothers) and 30 FMA sisters attended a camp at Bosco Gramin Vikas Kendra (BGVK), Ahmednagar to get hands-on training on what it means to be a scout.
Two reputed and highly trained scout trainers, Amalraj Narayanaswamy, District Commissioner, Don Bosco District, TN and S Raja Sudamani from Chennai trained the SDBs and FMAs. To assist them, there were four other scout and guide trainers from the Maharashtra region.
The camp began with the basics of scouting i.e. lashings, various knots and hitches. The Salesians fathers, brothers and sisters learnt new ways of using their scouting skills. They were informed about the new amendments in the scouting world. They were also told about the correct procedure of inspection and various commands. The importance and meaning of whistle signals and hand signals were also taught.
On the second day, they also prepared the camp gates. During the construction of camp gates, one could see the creativity of the participants unleashed. A good amount of time was spent to acquaint the fathers, brothers and sisters with their responsibilities during Boscoree.
Father Glenford Lowe, Boscoree programme coordinator, ran through the entire schedule of the Boscoree. Many of those present are appointed as sub-camp chiefs and assistant sub-camp chiefs. This training programme empowered them to be prepared to run the sub camps entrusted to their care.
The camp was a learning experience for all. The instructors were highly informed and knowledgeable and at the same time very warm and friendly. The host community of BGVK, Father George D’Abreo and Brother Vincent Nigrel ensured all necessary arrangements were in place to make everyone comfortable.
Father James Tuscano, coordinator for the training programme saw to all the details and requirements for the training. The spiritual part was also given due attention, with the prayers and the holy Eucharist focused on Boscoree. The highlight of the camp was the collaboration of the fathers, brothers and sisters working together for the same mission - preparation for Boscoree 2018.