School’s out and vacation has started! World Cup is over so having nothing else to occupy my time, I jumped at the opportunity to assist in a completely sponsored summer camp organised by the Social Justice committee of Our Lady of Fatima RC Church; which ran from July 10 to 21.

I was happy to be part of this “social justice” venture in view of the many ills in our society. It was like killing two birds with one stone! Firstly, we were aiding our community. What better way to combat all the “evil” in society by nurturing young minds and giving them an alternative to all the negative aspects of life today.

Secondly, we had the opportunity to brighten the lives of many young children in the community, some of whom would be categorised as “underprivileged”.

I use this word with disdain, because although finances may justify such a label, these children were far from that in terms of character wealth, knowledge, pure loving hearts and charisma that would remind us that children are truly God’s little angels.

With the camp centered on the theme of love, the coordinators aka “the aunties and uncles” led by Pearl Charles ensured all 50 children learned about all aspects of love through dance, music, drama, arts and craft and sports.

Every morning camp started with a general assembly in which some of these kids amazed me with their valuable contributions as we discussed many common problems in society.

If these little children (many of whom are not Catholic) could recognise the simple solution to all problems is love, then why can’t we as adults practice God’s commandment to “love thy neighbour as thyself”?

Those ten days together with these kids have been a truly wonderful and learning experience for me. Of course it was not easy dealing with children ages five to twelve who could be quite mischievous when left to their own devices!

Sometimes I sacrificed my own lunchtime to clean up after those tasty yet messy lunches, like roti. Now I know why they say being a teacher is not easy! 

I must really applaud all primary school teachers. However, as time passed, I got to know all these children and things got easier. I became that “friend with authority”.

Of our many enjoyable days, I will always remember our field trip to the Bonanza Horse Farm, where we all got to ride the ponies and horses (yes there is a difference, as we learnt) and our treasure hunt. I really do not know who had the most fun, the aunties who organised it or the kids themselves!

I remember the many evenings the five younger “aunties”, three of whom (including myself) are members of the Signs Of Undying Light (SOUL) of Christ Youth Group of Fatima RC Church, remained in camp hours after to tidy up, plan and prepare for the next day’s special activities.

On our last day we invited the parents to attend a gala performance of song, dance and drama by their well-rehearsed children. Pictures from our outing to the horse farm and many items of their art and craft were also on display.

Members of the Catholic Commission for Social Justice (CCSJ) and the Social Justice Committee of Fatima RC Church were also present to join in our celebrations. I soon learnt that our camp was the first ever “Social Justice” camp in the country.

I must commend all the members of the Social Justice team from our parish who made occasional visits, to the delight of the campers and ensured the camp was provided with hot meals every day, drinks, snacks and all the materials needed to make our “Love Camp” the place to be, so much so many were anxious to know when the next camp will take place!

Personally I would like to thank all the aunties and uncles who were part of this venture, the principal of Our Lady of Fatima RC School who allowed us use of the school and Msgr Esau Joseph who supported us, permitted our use of the parish hall and even donated some food items for those in need. May God continue to bless you all in future endeavours.