By Dn Jittin Mathew for BIS Mumbai

From October 13 to 17, “Camp Uttan, 2025,” was a place of joy and friendship. With the theme “Bosco Ke Saath Zindagi Mast,” this camp was a special project by Don Bosco Makarpura, Vadodara. It gathered 35 young campers from Don Bosco Makarpura, Rosary Church Fatehgunj, and Don Bosco Alirajpur. Led by Fr Shaun Dlima, Dn Jittin Mathew, and with great help from Fr Evangelo D’Souza and Fr Jeswin Mastan, Alexander Dominic and Vikash Vankar and the local vocation team, the camp had a simple, loving goal. It was created to help the children grow in love for the Church, become a bright light in their communities, and listen to God’s plan for them, all in the spirit of Don Bosco, who said, “It is enough that you are young for me to love you very much.”

The five days were filled with fun and faith, just as Don Bosco taught: “Run, jump, play, but do not sin.” The schedule was a happy mix of prayer, learning, and exciting games. Campers started their days with prayer and Mass, and then dove into activities like a Treasure Hunt Hike, team sports, and fun in the pool, visit to the light house and the famous Marian shrine - Bhatebunder. The volunteers were a big part of the fun, leading games and helping everyone feel included. The whole camp was built on the four pillars of the Salesian way Prayer, Study, Play, and Friendship making sure every moment was balanced and joyful.

The camp’s impact was clear in the smiles and words of the participants. Krut Rathwa shared, "It was my first experience and was awesome, I felt so close to God and my friends." Another camper, Anay James, said, "I love Don Bosco because they show a fun way to love God and live our life to the fullest. Thank you." These words show that the camp was more than just a trip; it was a starting point for personal growth. The campers left with happy memories, new friends, and a stronger faith, ready to be leaders who make a positive difference in the world. There will be a follow-up camp in the month of January for the boys to keep the spirit alive and growing.