By BIS Correspondent for BIS Mumbai

Mumbai, September 29, 2026: Students of St Joseph’s High School, Wadala, had the opportunity to participate in a two-day retreat held on September 28 and 29, 2026. The retreat was organised for students from Standards V to X, providing them with a meaningful opportunity for prayer, reflection and spiritual renewal.

The retreat sessions were conducted separately for students according to their classes and faith backgrounds. Fr Agnel Dias accompanied the Catholic boys of Standards IX and X, while Fr Jeswin Mastan conducted the retreat for students of other faiths from the same classes. Fr Lipton Patil, a Capuchin priest, guided the Catholic boys of Standards VII and VIII, while Fr Christopher Nadar accompanied the students of other faiths from Standards VII and VIII. The Catholic boys of Standards V and VI were guided by Fr Jittin Varghese, while Fr Xavier Bandya conducted the sessions for students of other faiths from Standards V and VI.

Through a variety of interactive sessions, reflections, stories, prayer and group activities, the resource persons helped the students to reflect on their lives, relationships, values and their relationship with God. The sessions were adapted to the age and needs of the students, enabling them to participate actively and meaningfully in the retreat experience.

The retreat was held each day from 9 a.m. to 12.30 p.m. Throughout the programme, the students were accompanied by their teachers, whose presence provided encouragement and support and helped maintain a prayerful and conducive atmosphere.

The entire programme was conducted under the guidance of Fr Solomon Rapol, Rector and Manager with Tr Cressieda Rodrigues and Sir Atul Rupekar coordinating the arrangements and ensuring the smooth conduct of the retreat.

For many of the students, this was their first experience of participating in a school retreat. The opportunity to step away from their regular academic routine and spend time in reflection, prayer and interaction made the two days a memorable experience for them. The enthusiasm and participation of the students throughout the retreat reflected their openness to learning, reflection and spiritual growth.

The retreat concluded with a renewed sense of gratitude and joy among the students.