by BIS CorrespondentLONAVALA, NOV 27, 2018: Who is a Salesian? Do we get to play? Will I get to learn any musical instrument? Will I be able to attend Holy Mass every day? Are studies difficult? These are some of the questions that youth face when deciding to join Don Bosco, Lonavla.
On November 24 and 25, the vocation promotion department of the Salesian Province of Mumbai organised a ‘Come and See’ camp at Don Bosco Lonavla for boys from standard seven to ten.
Sixty-one boys participated in the weekend camp, during which they were given an exposure to the Salesian way of life, knowing Don Bosco’s charism and a first-hand experience of staying at Don Bosco Lonavla. The programme helps youth discern their true calling in life.
Seven boys from Don Bosco-Nerul, twenty from Dominic Savio- Andheri, seventeen from Don Bosco-Borivli, two from Don Bosco-Suket, seven from Jyoti Mata church, and youth from other parts of Mumbai attended the camp.
In his session on vocation discernment, Father McEnroe Lopes shared about responding to God’s call and the process one can follow. Father Ranson D’Souza, the main celebrant at Holy Mass, mentioned in his homily, that nothing happens accidentally and that there is a plan of God in every situation.
The second day began with the Holy Eucharist being celebrated marking the solemnity of Christ the King. In his session, Father Glenford Lowe made the youth share their views on different topics. There were some very inspiring answers especially about miracles experienced and relationship with God.
Father Pereira, in his talk, shared with the youth the inspiring lives of Salesians who remained with Don Bosco and helped him to take the congregation ahead.
The programme was interspersed with inspirational talks, youthful games, cheerful camaraderie, and Salesian priests accompanying the youth with their fatherly love, as they have for generations, in the footsteps of their Founding Father - Don Bosco.