UPAASANA Camp Deepens Faith Formation Among Hunsur Deanery Students

Hunsur, Karnataka, August 10, 2026: A one-day faith formation camp brought together 121 Catholic students from Classes IX and X across parishes of Hunsur Deanery on August 9, encouraging them to deepen their relationship with Christ and live out their faith in family, school, parish and society.

UPAASANA, organised by the Commission for Faith Formation (Catechism) of the Diocese of Mysore, was held as part of the diocese’s Year of Faith 2026 initiatives. The camp was conducted with the guidance and blessing of Bishop Francis Serrao, SJ, of Mysore, and with the support of Fr. David Sagayaraj, Dean of Hunsur, and Fr. Chinnappa Thomas, Parish Priest.

The programme was hosted by the UFS Sisters under the leadership of Sr. Daina Rodrigues, UFS.

The camp sought to help young Catholics strengthen their Christian values and recognise their role as active disciples of Christ in their families, schools, parishes and wider society.

The day began with registration and breakfast, followed by a prayer service and inaugural session. The participants were introduced to the significance of the Year of Faith 2026 and encouraged to place Christ at the centre of their lives.

Sr. Amitha, Ursuline, led an orientation session and interactive activities that focused on friendship, teamwork and active participation. The programme combined spiritual instruction with games, action songs and group activities to engage the students throughout the day.

A session on the “Facts of Life”, conducted by Sr. Anitha Mary, CSST, together with Capuchin Brothers, invited the participants to reflect on the dignity of human life and the importance of making responsible choices guided by Christian values. Sr. Gladys, Ursuline, encouraged the students to live their faith with confidence and commitment.

The afternoon session turned to the theme of Synod and Synodality, with Sr. Lynette, CSST, explaining the Church’s call to walk together through communion, participation and mission.

Fr. Arul Selva Kumar led the faith-sharing session, encouraging the students to strengthen their relationship with Jesus through prayer, the sacraments and active participation in the life and mission of the Church. He also urged them to become joyful witnesses of Christ and responsible young leaders in society.

The camp concluded with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist, presented as the source and summit of Christian life. The participants gave thanks for the day’s experience and departed with renewed faith and a deeper commitment to discipleship.

The participation of the students and the contribution of priests, religious, teachers, resource persons and volunteers helped make the programme a significant experience of faith formation. The hospitality and service of the UFS Sisters also supported the successful conduct of the camp.

By Catholic Connect Reporter