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Under the leadership of Rev. Fr. John Peter, Dean of studies, and Rev. Fr. Thomas Mariaraj the Administrator along with Mr. Edwin Jayaseelan, Mr. Benedict Stephen and Mr. Gerard Pennefather accompanied and guided the students throughout the programme.
Mr. Andrew who is specialized in social work enlightened the students with his special sessions. Students were divided into four groups in order to develop team spirit. Waking up early in the morning, mass drill, yoga, mass for the catholic students, prayer service for non- Catholics, special sessions, first hand information with villagers in small groups, sticking to the time-table, group-wise activities and timely, balanced meals were the significant features of the programme. Participants understood the difficulties faced by the villagers and simple lifestyle led by them and were extremely taken up by the reception given by them. Students also had interaction with the gypsies and understood their way of life.
Rev. Fr. Amalan's sharing helped many students to understand their life better. We express our heartfelt gratitude to Rev. Fr. Augustine Nathan, Rector of Thirukahzukundram centre, for allowing our students to stay there and have a rich village experience. In the Gypsy village, a Camp Fire was organized in which students with zeal and enthusiasm participated. The inborn dancing and singing talents of the gypsies bewildered the participants. A Special word of thanks to Fr. Thomas Mariaraj, a veteran in organizing camps. Our thanks are due to Fr. John Peter who is instrumental for the successful conduct of the programme. We are indebted to Mr. Ramamoorthy and his team for the timely, balanced and tasty meals.
Certainly it will make our students more responsible and they would surely grow with better attitudes towards life. It was an eye opener to them and it made them aware of what life outside the school campus is. They also did clearly understand the daily struggle of the people in their day to day life. This programme has created a social consciousness and enabled the students to understand how much of struggles and sufferings every parent undergoes in their daily life. A mighty word of thanks to our rector, Rev. Fr. Joe Andrew and our headmaster, Rev. Fr. Michael for their constant support and guidance. We are indebted to the Department of Education for allowing us to have this enriching experience for our students.
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