India: Parish-Led Children’s Camp Encourages Spiritual Growth in Manipur
St. John Bosco Parish in Senapati, in the northeastern Indian state of Manipur, organized a two-day Children’s Camp and Renewal Programme on December 20–21, 2025, offering a spiritually enriching and joyful experience for 250 children.
The programme was held at Don Bosco School, which is run by the parish, and was designed to help children deepen their faith during the Christmas season through prayer, learning, and creative engagement.
The camp opened with an inaugural Holy Mass celebrated by the Parish Priest, Fr. Siby Alexander, setting a prayerful tone for the two-day event. A series of inspiring and faith-filled sessions followed, conducted by priests, religious sisters, and members of the Jesus Youth, led by Miss Lucy, President of Jesus Youth Manipur.
The sessions and activities were creatively designed to engage children who were on their school holidays and eager to learn beyond textbooks. Highlights included a Bible quiz competition, which encouraged participants to recall Scripture, as well as lively praise and worship sessions where children sang together in joyful unity.
Other activities included sessions on “Abba Father’s Love,” a scavenger hunt based on the Word of God, saints’ talks with interactive play, and a visual presentation on sin and forgiveness. These activities helped children understand Christian values in an age-appropriate and meaningful way.
The Sacrament of Confession was also arranged, helping them open their hearts to receive the Infant Jesus with renewed faith.
The camp concluded with a Holy Mass celebrated by Fr. Paul Ngaolouni, followed by a solemn Eucharistic Adoration led by Fr. Daya Kishor, bringing the programme to a prayerful close.
Voices from the Camp
Participants shared heartfelt reflections on their experience.
Lipehra Eliada, Class 4, said the winter camp was “very memorable” and had a positive impact on her. “The Jesus Youth were active and interactive. They were like guides and mentors to me,” she shared, adding that the priests and sisters encouraged the children to ask questions and learn freely.
Karini Racheal, Class 8, described the camp as worth attending despite the cold winter mornings. “I met new friends, played games, danced, and grew closer to God,” she said.
Adaziia Agnes, Class 6, called the camp “an awesome and unforgettable journey towards God.” She added, “These two days taught me a lot, from prayer to faithfulness. It was a beautiful spiritual journey for my siblings and me.”
Fr. Paul Ngaolouni, a member of the organizing team, expressed joy at the children’s enthusiasm. “It was very exciting to be with young people who are eager to know more about Christ,” he said.
Gratitude and Appreciation
The parish expressed its sincere gratitude to parents, the Women’s Society, catechism teachers, priests, sisters, and volunteers who contributed to the smooth organization of the programme.
Special appreciation was extended to the Jesus Youth team, under the leadership of Miss Lucy, whose vibrant involvement made the camp lively and experiential. The younger children were lovingly and efficiently cared for by the energetic Jesus Youth members. The Parish Youth were also thanked for their supportive presence and for distributing sweets and chocolates to the children.
St. John Bosco Parish acknowledged with gratitude the prayerful support and cooperation of all involved, which made the Children’s Camp and Renewal Programme a meaningful, faith-filled, and memorable experience for everyone.
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