The Diocesan Development and Welfare Society (DDWS) in collaboration with St. Mary’s Convent, Allahabad celebrated the Children’s Day for the less privileged children from the slums with lots of joy and enthusiasm at the premises of St. Mary’s Convent School and College, Allahabad on 16thNovember 2014. Most Rev. Raphy Manjaly, Bishop of Allahabad inaugurated the program. After the initial prayer, Rev. Fr. Antony K.K., Director DDWS, welcomed the Bishop, children and all the teachers.
The Inaugural session began with the welcome song presented by the children from the slums of Gaughat. Bishop Raphy in his address blessed and encouraged the children and appreciated the efforts being made by them. He also appreciated the initiatives being taken by the children of slum to come forward. Bishop Raphy described the importance of Children’s Day to the children and also motivated them by his inspiring speech.
Approximately 500 children came from the 20 literacy centres established by DDWS from various parts of Allahabad. The main aim of the programme was to give importance to the children of slums as they are also special and deserve to achieve their growth and dreams in the healthy surrounding and so attain their full potential to lead a meaningful life in the future.
Further Bishop Raphy Manjaly came forward to bless the children. All the children offered a bouquet and were happy to be blessed by the Bishop. He interacted with the children and blessed them for their bright future. A group dance was also performed by the children in the presence of Bishop.
The programs were conducted by DDWS staff & USM Students. Various
activities were planned specially for this day. This year the children participated in various activities such as frog race, 100 metre race, dance, singing etc. A musical chair was conducted for the teachers of the slum. The children’s joy knew no bounds as they witnessed their teachers in action during the musical chair. They clapped, applauded and cheered for their respective teachers.
Sr. Rosily, Mrs. Ulfat Ahmad, Mrs. Khosala, Mrs. Mary Samuel, Miss Sumati, Mr. Anurag Sharma, Sr. Benita, Sr. Theopine, Sr. Marina, Mr. Vivek Tiwari, Sr. Marriete Principal, St. Mary’s Convent School and College distributed prizes to the children and teachers of slum. Thereafter children put up some cultural programs which were appreciated by everyone.
The children and teachers of slum thanked DDWS & SMC family for making this day memorable one. Finally the programme came to an end with the distribution of lunch packets to all who were present in this celebration.