By Ms Priyamary Dabhi for BIS Mumbai

On January 14 and 15, Fr Shaun D'Lima with the Vocation Team of Don Bosco Parish, Makarpura hosted a transformative Camp Reunion of Bosco ke Saath Zindagi Mast for 28 boys from Grade 5 and above. The overnight event, which combined spiritual depth with high-energy recreation, left a lasting impact on both participants and their families.

The journey began at the parish grounds, where boys were divided into four teams: Red, Blue, Green, and Yellow. The morning opened with a Holy Eucharist that invited the campers to "own" their faith. Through a symbolic activity, each boy placed his thumbprint and name on an image representing the Body of Christ. During the sermon, the boys engaged in reflective exercises, writing their personal camp intentions on "fishes" that swam toward a cross, and sharing their personal visions of who Jesus is to them.

After the spiritual foundation was laid, the energy shifted toward team-building. An "ice-breaker" balloon activity filled the hall with laughter, followed by a vocal session to prepare for the evening’s worship. A spirited football match—which was extended by popular demand—concluded the morning session before the group departed for a local farmhouse.

The afternoon at the farmhouse offered a change of pace, featuring a refreshing swimming session and time for teams to finalize their campfire performances. As dusk fell, Fr D’Lima led a poignant "Praise and Worship" session. In the mindful silence of the candlelit lawn, the boys sat around a cross, joined by Fr Brian for an hour of prayer and guitar-led hymns.

The day culminated in an "electrifying" campfire. The teams showcased their creativity through dances, yells, and slogans, demonstrating 100% participation. Even as they retired for the night, the boys’ enthusiasm remained high as they built makeshift tents in their quarters.

The reunion concluded on January 15 with a final football match and a heartfelt prize distribution. As parents arrived for dispersal, many campers expressed a reluctant goodbye, with feedback highlighting a deep sense of gratitude and an eager anticipation for the next camp experience.