The New Boarders' Selection Camp at St. Dominic Savio Boys' Home, Andheri, was successfully held from 02 to 07 May 2025. The camp welcomed 21 enthusiastic participants from standards VI to VIII, hailing from various regions including Vasai, Dongri, Uttan, Talasari, Mumbai, and Pune.

The five-day residential camp was a blend of learning, spiritual nourishment, recreation, and personal development. Each day began with the celebration of the Holy Mass, followed by breakfast, recreational time, and various classes and activities. Boys experienced a structured boarding lifestyle and adhered to a set timetable, giving them a true feel of life at the boarding school. A variety of engaging and enriching activities kept the campers motivated and energized. Competitions like Minute to Fame, Savio Voice, Poster Making, and Treasure Hunt, along with animated games, gave the boys an opportunity to showcase their creativity and talents. Time was also set aside for study and skill-building.

Spiritual formation remained a key aspect of the camp. In true Salesian tradition, the boys participated in daily Rosary recitations and concluded their days with night prayers and the “Good Night” talk, providing moments of reflection and inspiration. A special celebration of the feast of St. Dominic Savio gave the boys deeper insight into the life and values of their patron saint. In his homily, Fr. Rector Franco Pereira highlighted the four resolutions St. Dominic Savio took during his First Holy Communion, urging the boys to keep Jesus and Mary as their lifelong companions. Professional support from Prafulta added a significant dimension to the camp, as experts conducted sessions on remedial and occupational therapy, catering to the holistic development of the boys.

A highlight of the camp was the vibrant Savio Nite, which included a campfire and prize distribution ceremony. An unexpected shower during the campfire led the boys to joyfully sing Showers of Blessings, making the evening even more memorable.

Throughout the camp, the Salesian community played a vital role. Fr. Rector, who served as the Camp Chief, personally interacted with each boy, and the entire Salesian team actively engaged in the day-to-day functioning of the camp, exemplifying the Salesian spirit of “Salesians with the Young.”

On the final day, emotions ran high as the boys bid farewell to one another, having formed friendships and memories that will last a lifetime. Many expressed their gratitude and heartfelt reflections during the concluding sharing session.

In every way, the camp was a great success, thanks to the dedication and wholehearted involvement of the Salesian Fathers, brothers, and animators at St. Dominic Savio Boys' Home.