Bhadravathi, April 4, 2025:
Our Lady of Vailankanni Church, Gandhinagar, Bhadravathi, successfully concluded a vibrant and spiritually enriching week-long catechism camp on April 4, 2025. The camp, held from March 31 to April 4, was organized in light of the Jubilee Year 2025, themed “Pilgrims of Hope.”
The camp aimed at deepening the faith of young participants and helping them understand the significance of the Jubilee Year. Sessions focused on the theological meaning of the Jubilee, the symbolism of the Jubilee logo, and the importance of forgiveness and the Word of God in one’s faith journey. The virtue of gratitude was also emphasized as a path to genuine Christian joy.
Six Sisters from the St. Charles Borromeo Congregation, Nirmala Hospital, served as key resource persons. Their sessions offered the children rich insights into the spiritual and practical dimensions of being ‘Pilgrims of Hope.’ To keep the experience dynamic and engaging, the camp featured various activities including singing, drama, and Bible quote memorization competitions—all centered around the theme of hope. Brothers Glanson and Ashlin, along with the parish youth group, brought energy to the sessions through action songs, games, and group interactions.
One of the highlights of the final day was Shramadhan (work experience), where children actively participated in service-based tasks, nurturing a spirit of responsibility and communal care. The camp was meticulously coordinated by Sr. Theresa Mascarenhas, SCB, with the support of seven dedicated volunteers. Eleven BEC groups from the parish contributed by providing food and refreshments throughout the week, ensuring the event ran smoothly.
Motivational talks by Sr. Wilma, Superior of St. Charles Convent, Fr. Steevan D’Sa, Parish Priest, and Fr. James Paul, SDB, on the opening and concluding days, offered powerful encouragement to the young campers in their spiritual growth.
The camp culminated with a heartfelt expression of joy and gratitude from the children, many of whom shared how the experience had deepened their understanding of the Jubilee Year and renewed their faith. Daily Mass and prayer sessions anchored the camp in spiritual rhythm and reflection.
In recognition of their participation, all children received prizes, making the week not just spiritually fulfilling but also memorable and rewarding. The catechism camp stood as a joyful witness to the hope and vitality of young faith in the Church.
Fr Steevan Dsa
