Spiritual and Career Guidance Camp for Children Held in Sawantwadi, Maharashtra

Sawantwadi, Maharashtra, Sept. 6, 2025: "Preranotsav 2025", a two-day camp focused on spiritual growth and career guidance, was held on August 26 and 27, 2025, at the Navsarni Pastoral Centre in Sawantwadi. Organised by the Commission for Faith Formation of the Diocese of Sindhudurg, the event aimed to strengthen the faith of schoolchildren while equipping them with essential life skills.

Held under the theme “Children: The Beacon of Hope”, the camp brought together 193 students from various parishes and schools across the diocese. The programme was meticulously coordinated by priests, religious sisters, volunteers, and resource persons committed to the holistic development of children.

Fr. Andrew Dmello, the Diocesan Administrator, and Bishop Emeritus Alwyn Barretto celebrated the Holy Eucharist on the first and second days of the camp, respectively. All the children, together with the animators and volunteers, prepared and animated the liturgy for both Masses. The lively choir and inspiring homilies deeply strengthened the participants’ spiritual lives. Additionally, morning prayers and Rosary sessions further enriched their spiritual experience during the camp.

The programme featured several impactful sessions, workshops, discussions, and presentations focused on the teachings of the prophets and evangelists in the Holy Bible. The children also engaged in lively activities during the two-day camp. These activities, which included action songs, group dynamics, and games led by animators, created an atmosphere of joy and camaraderie.

Resource persons from Don Bosco Konkan Development Society (Goa), Montfort Academy (Corlim, Goa), and Don Bosco Udhyamshala (Kudal) conducted informative sessions on holistic development, vocational courses, skill-building programmes, sustainable livelihoods, and self-reliance. Participants also received guidance on competitive and civil service exams such as the Maharashtra Talent Search, National Talent Search, MPSC, IAS, and IPS exams.

Participants were accommodated at Navsarni Pastoral Centre and Milagris Boys Boarding, with meals and refreshments provided throughout the camp. The programme concluded with students leaving spiritually enriched and better prepared with skills and knowledge to pursue safe, rewarding careers. Preranotsav 2025 received high appreciation from students, animators, and organisers alike, who eagerly anticipate its continuation in the coming years.

By Fr. Felix Lobo and Fr. Wilson Gonsalves,

Co-ordinators,

Diocese of Sindhudurg