by Dorothy Fernandes for BIS Mumbai

The Catholic students of Don Bosco High School & Jr. College, Naigaon, participated in a spiritual retreat focused on the theme of “Living Joyfully.” Held on September 10, 2024, this event saw the participation of approximately two hundred students from grades V to XII. Fr Joyston Machado, Fr Sunil Pinto, Fr Jesu Robinson, and Br Royston Colaco led the retreat, along with the catechism teachers and supervisors of the school. This gathering united students from diverse backgrounds, offering them an opportunity to deepen their faith, forge new connections, and embrace the joy of living a Christ-centred life.

The retreat began with a welcome song and dance performance by the students and a keynote address by the Principal, Fr Anthony Fonseca, who emphasized the importance of finding joy in our daily lives through our relationship with God. The students were encouraged to reflect on how joy is not merely a feeling but a choice to live with gratitude and faith, even amidst life’s challenges.

Segregated into different age groups, the students were engaged throughout the day in various activities designed to foster spiritual growth and community building. They attended sessions on topics such as “Finding Joy in Prayer,” “Living Out Your Faith Daily,” and “Building Joyful Relationships.” These sessions provided practical tools and spiritual insights to help students integrate joy into their everyday lives. Balancing spiritual nourishment with fun, the retreat included team-building games and creative activities that helped students relax, bond, and discover joy through fellowship.

Small group discussions allowed students to share their experiences and support one another in their faith journey. Our dedicated retreat animators guided these conversations and facilitated deep and meaningful exchanges.

Sister Norma Fernandes, the superior of the Poor Sisters of Our Lady in Naigaon East, led a session with the girls to encourage self-reflection on their unique identities as creations of God. Through this session, the girls came to understand their individuality better and were able to share their personal experiences with her, which helped them find answers to many of their questions.

Students showcased their creativity and understanding of the Bible through a series of engaging skits based on various parables. This initiative not only demonstrated the students’ acting talents but also highlighted their deepening grasp of the Scriptures. The skits explored well-known parables such as “The Good Samaritan,” “The Prodigal Son,” “The Sower and the Seeds” and the parable of “The Talents." The skits were both entertaining and educational, providing valuable insights into the teachings of Jesus. Near the conclusion of the event, Br Royston Colaco spoke to the students, encouraging them to reflect on their experiences and to embrace a joyful life as a manifestation of their faith.

The day’s activities concluded with a Holy Mass celebrated by Fr Sunil Pinto. This final celebration provided a sacred moment for reflection and gratitude, bringing the retreat to a meaningful close. As the retreat concluded, students left with renewed spirits and practical ways to infuse joy into their lives.