By Cl. Ethan Fortes for BISMumbai

The community of Don Bosco Lonavla along with the Salesian Novices began a two-day ‘Come and See’ Camp for the boys aspiring to discern their vocation and join the aspirantate on 19 November 2022. Around 60 boys were present from Salesian institutions and parishes all over the province.

The boys arrived along with their regional vocation team animators in the morning where they were welcomed by Fr Blany Pinto, the Rector. Fr Joyston Machado introduced the whole team of animators to the boys while also briefing them on the various parts of the house and the whole focus of the aspirantate. With a few ice-breakers, the campers broke for lunch wherein they interacted with the aspirants.

In the afternoon, the boys had a one-on-one encounter with the aspirants who described how life goes on in the boarding on a daily basis. A few of the aspirants also accompanied the boys as they embarked on a trek to Tungarli. The boys had a wonderful time interacting with and getting to know the aspirants.

During the Eucharist, Fr Machado and Fr Pinto also oriented the boys into what it means to be part of a ‘Come and See’ camp. Fr Pinto also told the boys that Jesus himself not only called his boys to come and see but also invited them to stay with him a while. In a similar manner, he said that the ‘Come and See’ camp should also encourage the boys to join the aspirantate.

The highlight for the evening was the felicitation of the practical trainees of the house, by way of a family circle. The aspirants showed their gratitude for all that the brothers do for them in the house by creatively putting up a skit, dance and a song. This was a good occasion to show the campers the family spirit in Don Bosco, Lonavla

The following day, a few Salesians also shared their experience at Don Bosco Lonavla and how it helped them understand and discern God’s call in their life. The camp ended with the campers filling in their admission application to join the aspirantate.

In their vote of thanks, the campers did tell the community that they were quite taken up with the various activities conducted in the aspirantate and were appreciative of the lovely interaction they had with the residing aspirants.