By Primal Pinto
Allipade - Bantwal, Oct 9, 2024 : On 6th October, the ICYM unit of St Anthony church, Allipade conducted one-day camp for the parish's 1st to 10th standard children, titled "Margadarshan Shibir". After breakfast, all gathered at Sauharda Sabhabhavan, and by God's grace, they began the camp. ICYM unit director Fr. Robert D'Souza, Naveen Moras, Kiran Noronha, Sr. Narsiza, ICYM animators Sr. Deepa and Wilson D'Souza, along with ICYM Bantwal Deanery President Arrol Sequeira, Secretary Melroy D'Souza, and the entire Deanery Executive Committee, including ICYM Central Council Social Cause Secretary Wilson Pinto and ICYM Allipade Unit President Mishal D'Souza, were present on the dais.
A small birthday celebration for both of the animators took place with the cutting of a cake. Later, Sr. Narsiza wished good luck for the camp, and Fr. Robert delivered his heartfelt words to the children. The camp officially started with an action song, and the children were categorized by their class as : from 1st-3rd, 4th-5th, 6th-8th, and 9th-10th grades, the children were classified into groups according to their sessions. The first session, "The Value of Hard Work", was conducted by Wilson Pinto, followed by "Communication Skills" by Melroy D'Souza, "The Importance of Prayer" by Deepthi D'Souza, "Reducing Mobile Addiction" by Venessa Moras, "Respect for Parents" by Sanath Veigas, "Self-discipline and Cleanliness" by Renisha Veigas, "Understanding Good Touch and Bad Touch" by Vinslet Pinto, and "Mentally Preparing Children for Challenges" by Riya Moras.
The children enjoyed every session and learned valuable lessons for their lives. Later, Fr. Robert, along with everyone, prayed before lunch, which was then served to all the children and youths.
In the afternoon, the children kicked off their fun activities with an energetic action song led by the icebreakers. They were then split into six groups named "Konkni Tara", "Allipadechi Neketra", "Parzalith Neketra", and "Chimnethel". Several games were conducted, which the children found very funny.
ICYM Allipade unit also provided an opportunity for the children to showcase their talents. Shanvith Pinto from class 7 did a great mimicry of birds and animals, while Reeva Pinto from class 7 amazed everyone by reciting the "Hail Mary" in more than six languages. Princiya Pinto from class 4 mesmerized the audience with her solo dance, displaying confidence and expressive moves. Pearl and Snehal from class 1 performed a cute act, and Leesha Pais and Lavisha sang a beautiful song with their melodious voices. Alvisha and Alvita Pinto, siblings, performed excellently, and Aaron's dance was fantastic. The group dance by Lia, Ashline, Primal, and Princiya was mind-blowing.
Everyone appreciated the talents of these children. Afterward, the ICYM Allipade members performed a fantastic dance, which was loved by everyone. The camp concluded with a prayer.
In total, 60 children were present, and Melroy D'Souza hosted the camp.