by Alisha Khemali and Alphonsa Ohol for BIS Mumbai

"Books are the quietest and most constant of friends, they are the most accessible and wisest of counselors, and the most patient of teachers"

 In an era where digital screens often dominate our daily lives, the youth of Sacred Heart Parish took a refreshing step back into the world of printed books during their visit to the St. Paul’s Book Fest on August 3, 2024, held at the Society of St. Paul in Pune. This event provided a valuable contrast to the fast-paced digital landscape, thanks to the initiative of Fr Alex Carvalho, the Parish Youth Director.

In a digital age where information is often consumed online, the Book Fest offered a tactile and immersive experience, featuring books from over 100 publishers across a wide range of topics. The festival highlighted genres such as philosophy and theology, general knowledge, self-help, quiz books, leadership, counseling and management, human relationships, youth and children’s literature, prayer books, and spirituality. This diverse array of subjects provided the youth with a comprehensive and enriching experience beyond the confines of their digital devices.

The visit proved to be a captivating retreat from the usual digital interfaces, with attendees reveling in the opportunity to explore physical books and engage deeply with their content. One participant expressed their enthusiasm, noting, “It was the first time I visited a book exhibition where I got to experience various spiritual books. It really made me happy.” This sentiment reflects a growing appreciation for the tangible and contemplative aspects of traditional reading, even in our tech-driven world.

Fr Alex Carvalho’s initiative not only bridged the gap between the digital and physical worlds but also reinforced the value of traditional learning and spiritual reflection. The visit to the Society of St Paul served as a reminder of the importance of balancing our digital consumption with immersive, real-world experiences.

As Sacred Heart Parish youth look back on this enriching visit, there is a renewed appreciation for the blend of digital convenience and the timeless pleasure of exploring physical books. The Book Fest has demonstrated that even in the digital era, there is immense value in reconnecting with the written word in its most traditional form.

In the end, books remain an irreplaceable source of knowledge, inspiration, and comfort, continuing to open minds and hearts in ways that digital media cannot. The visit to the Book Fest has rekindled a love for reading and a deeper appreciation for the enduring power of the written world.