Media Release
Shivamogga, Apr 11: The Diocesan Catechetical and Biblical Commission successfully organized a five-day leadership camp for 102 tenth-grade Catholic students from the Shimoga diocese. The programme, held from April 6-10, focused on enhancing the participants' spiritual growth, leadership capabilities, and personal development.
Bishop Duming Dias, apostolic administrator, inaugurated the camp, saying, "Flourish and overcome obstacles, for God has a plan for each of you" (Jeremiah 29:11). Fr Santhosh D'Almeida welcomed the dignitaries and participants.
Sessions held were:
- Goal setting: Fr Joyson Vaz SJ guided students to set goals, citing Pope Francis, "Dream big, aim high" (Gaudete et Exsultate, 2018).
- Unlocking potentials: Fr Joyson Vaz SJ encouraged students to discover their strengths, referencing 1 Corinthians 12:4, "Each has their own gift."
- Self awareness: Fr Joyson Vaz SJ led a session on self-awareness, emphasizing CCC 1705, "Human dignity requires us to act with knowledge and freedom."
- Health and hygiene: Sr Alvina Baretto SCCG discussed physical and mental health, citing 1 Corinthians 6:19, "Your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit."
- Career guidance: Rayan Miranda addressed exam preparation, study skills, and career options.
- Leadership and empowerment: Fr Roman Pinto and Fr Vinuth Balu led sessions on leadership and media literacy.
- Vocation and discernment: Fr Franklin D'Souza guided students on discernment, referencing Matthew 22:37, "Love God with all your heart."
Spiritual activities
Daily Holy Eucharist, Taize prayers, and healing adoration fostered spiritual growth.
Msgr Stany D'Souza distributed certificates, encouraging students to be active members of the Church and society. Students expressed gratitude to the organizers and participants
The camp empowered young Catholics to grow in faith, leadership, and service, reflecting CCC 2444, "We must work for the common good."