By Fr Ashwin Macwan for BISMumbai

AmrutDhara Don Bosco Animation Centre, Kapadvanj, under the leadership of its Director, Fr Ashwin Macwan, organised a residential faith formation camp for Catholic children from 19 to 22 November 2023. 50 children between the ages of 9 and 17 attended the camp.

The purpose of the camp was to help the children prepare to receive the sacraments of First Holy Communion and Confirmation. The camp was organised to provide intense faith formation to strengthen the roots of the faith they have received.

The camp began on 19 November with a prayer service, which was followed by icebreakers, which helped the participants get to know each other. They were divided into teams, which got them to take an active part in different activities organised.

During the camp, children were instructed in various topics: the sacraments, the commandments, Bible study, the lives of saints, liturgy and so forth. Along with these, there were other extracurricular activities in the afternoon and evenings like Bible Quiz, Creative Expression, Jesus Nite, Talent show and Campfire to help the children learn more about the faith in a fun and creative manner. Most importantly, they were taught to make a good confession by Mr Jacob Macwan and Mrs Nirmala Macwan. Children were given time, and a meaningful atmosphere was provided for them during the well-animated Adoration service to make a good confession.

The participants responded well with their interactive participation during sessions and activities. Fr Macwan explained the faith through different magic tricks. The climax of the camp was the talent show during the campfire, where the children put up dances, songs and drama to express their love for Jesus.

The camp was concluded on 22 November with the Holy Eucharist presided over by Fr Anton Macwan, Secretary of the Bishop of Ahmedabad. A felicitation ceremony and prize distribution were held, during which each child was appreciated. Fr Ashwin Macwan thanked the Salesian community, volunteers and lay collaborators for their animating presence during the camp and for helping the children participate in the activities of the camp.