The Sarvodaya Centre in Goregaon was abuzz with spiritual fervour and community camaraderie on October 28-29, 2023. The Skills for SCC Animators programme organised by the Archdiocesan Office for SCCs brought together 61 SCC animators from parishes across the Archdiocese. (A similar programme held on September 9-10, 2023 was attended by 60 animators.)
The first day commenced with a warm welcome and an overview of the structure of the Small Christian Community (SCC) and the Archdiocesan Vision for SCCs by Bishop Barthol. This session set the tone for the entire event. This was followed by interactive sessions and discussions on topics like Gospel Sharing, Communication, Clusters by Sr Manisha, Roland Rapose, Francis Vaz and Adrian respectively. Each of these sessions gave us an insight into the working of the SCCs, the relevance of their existence, and taught us the importance of contact and connection with our neighbours within our communities. In between these sessions, Roland and Adrian kept us active and engaged with their fun games. The evening ended with the recitation of the Rosary, signifying the importance of our dear Mother Mary in leading us in our journey as animators.
The second day began with a Prayer Service and Reflection on the wonders of our Lord, allowing the participants to reflect on their faith and the role of the Small Christian Community in the modern world. The day continued with workshops on SCC Networking with Associations and Cells by Reena Poddar and Visiting in SCCs by Rena Rodricks. During the discussions, attendees shared their experiences and commitments to bring about a positive change to their community. The programme ended with Mass celebrated by Bishop Barthol, culminating in a heart-warming closing ceremony.
The two-day Skills for SCC Animators Programme was a resounding success, bringing together SCC animators from various backgrounds and age groups with common goals – to strengthen our faith and community bonds. It was an event filled with spiritual growth, reflection, and a shared commitment to living out Christian values in our daily lives and spreading the same values within our communities. This programme served as a testament to the power of faith-based communities in nurturing a sense of belonging and promoting positive change.
I will always remember the scrumptious spread, the discussions and positive debates at the sessions and the laughter and camaraderie at the dining table. I would like to thank the Archdiocese of Bombay, Bishop Barthol and his Team, for organising an event that allowed us to gain insights and much needed guidance as a stepping stone in our journey as SCC animators.
Rosita Coelho St Andrew Church, Bandra