ಬಹುತ್ವದೆಡೆ ಸಹೋದರರ ನಡೆ-ನುಡಿ: 65 scholastics attend Sahodaya in Hassan

On : 2023-05-29

This year’s annual scholastics’ gathering, Sahodaya 2023 was held in Navasadhana pre-novitiate, Hassan from May 23-26. The theme of the meet was 'ಬಹುತ್ವದೆಡೆ ಸಹೋದರರ ನಡೆ-ನುಡಿ'. The celebration began with the hoisting of the Sahodaya flag and a traditional vojem (hore kanike) procession of all the things used at the scholastics’ meeting. The ice breaking session that followed gave a grand start and helped brothers to strengthen their bonds. Seven Juniors were officially welcomed to the scholastic body with the usual fun and entertainment. The theme from Kantara movie was used to creatively welcome our younger brothers. The entertainment committee was always on their toes to keep the crowd engaged during the free time with their ಸುಗಮ ಸಂಗೀತ.

On the second day of the gathering, serious reflection on the theme of Sahodaya was held. Fr Maxim Dias, department of Political Science, St Joseph's University, Bangalore, spoke on ‘Promoting pluralism’. Dr Muzaffar Assadi, former Vice-Chancellor (I/C) of Mysore University and currently in the department of Political Science and Public Administration in the same university was another speaker. He enlightened the gathering on pluralism in the country today and the response to be given to divisive forces.

These sessions were followed by a group discussion and open forum on how concretely scholastics can promote unity without uniformity, and diversity without fragmentation. Sch Reuell Paul (DAR), a student of Political Science, helped in this brain storming and reflective session. In the afternoon Fr Maxim Dias and Sch Reuell Paul addressed the scholastics regarding the works of Province Youth Commission. This interactive session was aimed at fostering greater participation of scholastics in youth ministry.

Seven new priests of the province were felicitated in the evening. They were accorded a grand farewell from the scholastic body with a fun-filled ceremony with the theme of Karnataka elections.

The third day was a time to relax and enjoy each other’s company. A day out was held at Alphonse Nagar Church. In the morning a cricket match and other games were held in the Church campus. After a good meal at would-be-novice Vishwas’ home, scholastics went to play in the pristine waters of river Hemavati. The epitome of the companionship and celebration was in the evening with a camp fire and delicious dinner. During the gathering, the Jesuits of Hassan were acknowledged for their hospitality and generosity in organising Sahodaya 2023.

On the final day there was an interaction with the Provincial and the PCF. Fr Dionysius Vaz, the provincial commended the generous contribution of the scholastics in the communities and the common houses. He also challenged them to take up frontier ministries that are needed in the challenging context of South Asia and the universal Society. Fr Francis Fernandes, the PCF encouraged the scholastics to continue giving the best in terms of their strengths and brought to their notice some concerns to become effective persons. The 25th issue of Scholastic's magazine Prajwalana was released on the occasion.

The  entire event drew to a close with an evaluation and election of new coordinators for the next year’s Sahodaya. First year theologians led by Schs. Johnson R and Roydon Misquith coordinated Sahodaya.  All the 65 scholastics present joyfully returned with many beautiful memories and with this year’s Sahodaya present of a shoulder bag.

- Sch. Ovin Rodrigues SJ