By Fr Bento D’Souza & Ms Ankita Shelke for BIS Mumbai

Boscopulse, an animating team from Nagar region, organised IGNITE 2026, a three-day camp from August 28 to 30, 2026 at Bosco Gramin Vikas Kendra, Ahmednagar, bringing together 61 students from three Salesian parishes — St. Anne’s, St. John’s Bhingar, and St. John Bosco, Savedi. The 5th-7th grade children participated under the guidance of their respective catechism teachers. The camp was designed to bring together faith formation, personal development, teamwork and recreation in an engaging environment.

The theme of IGNITE 2026 was “Growing in Wisdom, Faith, Character and Leadership.” Across the three days, the children participated in sessions and activities that encouraged them to understand themselves better, strengthen their faith, discover their talents and build positive relationships with others.

The camp began on August 28 with the arrival, registration and team formation. The children participated in icebreakers and team-building activities before attending a session on Personality Development and Values conducted by Fr George D’Abreo. The session encouraged the children to reflect on their qualities, values and the kind of person they want to become. A Bible games activity brought an element of fun and learning into the day. In the evening, Fr Richard Burkhao conducted a session on “Building Faith in Young Hearts,” followed by Holy Mass celebrated by Fr McEnroe. The day concluded with night games and a good-night reflection.

The second day began with exercise, Zumba and meditation. Fr Ajay conducted a session on “Knowing and Managing Emotions in Faith,” helping the children understand their emotions and reflect on how they respond to different situations. This was followed by a session on Social Media and Phone Addiction by Ms Ankita, which encouraged the children to examine their digital habits and think about how they can use technology more responsibly.

The afternoon included a face-painting activity, giving the children an opportunity to express their creativity and enjoy an informal time of interaction. Games and recreational activities continued through the day. In the evening, Fr Ajit Munis led a session on “Who Am I and My Vocation,” encouraging the children to reflect on their identity, talents and future. The day ended with Holy Mass celebrated by Fr Richard D’Silva, followed by dinner and a campfire.

The final day focused on the children’s role as young Christians. A session on “My Role as a Christian in the World and My Family” helped participants reflect on how they can live their faith through their everyday actions and relationships. The camp concluded with Holy Mass celebrated by Fr Vishwas, followed by prize distribution, lunch and departure.

IGNITE 2026 offered the children a balance of faith, learning, self-reflection, teamwork and fun. Through the different sessions and activities, they were encouraged to recognise their strengths, understand their emotions, make thoughtful choices, deepen their relationship with God and see their role within their families and communities.

The camp was supported throughout by the catechism teachers from St Anne’s, St John’s Bhingar and St John Bosco, Savedi. The FMA Sisters from Auxilium Convent and youth volunteers also provided valuable support and accompaniment during the camp, contributing to the care and overall experience of the young participants.

IGNITE 2026 concluded with 61 young people returning to their communities with new friendships, experiences and reflections, carrying forward the spirit of growing in wisdom, faith, character and leadership.

https://youtube.com/shorts/yF9H9Fz-_9k?si=DIHrw5hm4oOPYmjb