New Delhi, Alaknanda, Feb. 22, 2018: The extraordinary visit to Don Bosco Alaknada commenced on February 22, 2018.
Fr. Maria Arokiam arrived from Jharjhar (Haryana) at 9.00 p.m. at Don Bosco School Alaknanda. He was accorded a warm welcome by Fr. Rector, Fr. Babu Varghese, Fr. Bhushan, the vice-rector, Fr. Jerry, the administrator, Fr. Norbert and Fr. Brian Diamond who were eagerly waiting for his arrival. The community felt privileged to have Fr. Maria and without much ado, they immediately invited him for supper as it was already late.
On February 23, the day began with a Morning Prayer at 6.00 a.m. which was followed by a conference given by Fr. Maria, emphasizing on the importance of returning to the basics of religious life, returning to the poor, transparency and other related issues.
The smorning assembly was held at 7.20 a.m. in the auditorium. Fr. Babu Varghese, the principal, welcomed Fr. Maria, saying that the visit of the superiors to any institution is a ‘moment of grace’ for everyone. Fr. Maria was welcomed with a bouquet and a shawl. In his message to the teachers and students Fr. Maria highlighted the importance of caring for nature, by looking after the trees within the school campus and respecting women.
A butter fruit sapling was planted by Fr. Maria along with Fr. Babu Varghese and others in the presence of students, in the school garden as a sign to promote ecology.
Fr. Maria addressed the staff members in the auditorium at 1.45 p.m. on the ‘Purpose of Education.’ He brought to light, the three elements of Don Bosco namely – academics, spirituality and kindness. He cited situational incidents as examples to facilitate understanding of child psychology and awakens to the need of the hour. He motivated the educators to think out of the box and liberate the young minds.
In the evening at 4.00 p.m. Fr. Maria along with the community members visited ‘Ankur School’ and had a brief interaction with them.
The extraordinary visit came to a conclusion on 24th Februay at 8.30 a.m. with the concluding remarks and general observation by Fr. Maria Arokiam. He left for provincial house at 10.00 a.m. accompanied by Fr. Joseph Manipadam, the CBCI Educational Secretary.