Christmas is here

Christmas is here

It is said, Christmas time is the best time of the year.  Indeed it is.  Decorations, parties, carols, programs, cribs… they all add to the festive and joyous spirit of the Christmas season.  At St. Joseph’s, Wadala, things were no different.  The entire week leading to the Christmas symposium was lit up with festivities and preparations:  inter-class star (making) competition, adorning of the class crib with decorations and statues, Christmas card making contest, singing of Christmas carols and planning a Christmas program that would include reaching out to the less fortunate.

Come the Christmas symposium and party day in school, and the festivities reached a crescendo. Brightly dressed (no school uniform!) students trooped to their classrooms for the morning prayer and assembly at the start of the day, and blessed God for the year gone by.  The programs for the Secondary and Primary section followed in succession in the school hall. The Kg. students had a taste of the Christmas jolly spirit at the specially arranged parties in their classrooms, with special gifts and sweets from Santa Claus.

The Christmas program had a touch of tradition, creativity, inspiration and melody. The small skit by the secondary section giving us the true meaning of Christmas was heartening.  The primary section regaled us with Christmas carols that narrated the Christmas story.  Truly, the stage was a picture of the Christmas scene twenty centuries ago.  After the program, it was time for some merriment. The students together with their class teachers and other staff members, gathered in their respective classrooms for a Christmas party comprising games, sing-song and snacks.  Thereafter, the school staff had their share of Christmas fun and camaraderie at a special gathering in the school hall.  Singing of carols, Christmas messages, a delicious meal and mouth watering desserts featured in this homely celebration.

As always, a bright spark of the Christmas festivity, is the spirit of giving. That's what Christmas really is - the love of Jesus that fills us with Hope, Joy, Peace and Love, prompts us to share our sentiments with others, especially the less fortunate. This year the classes grouped together to add to the joy of disadvantaged children in our city in a spirit of sharing.  The students of Std. I and II have decided to reach out to Asha Daan in Byculla; Std. III and IV will be helping St. Catherine of Siena Orphanage, Bandra; Std. V and VI are contributing to a Balwadi in the vicinity which is run by a retired teacher of our school, Mrs. Aranha; Std. VII and VIII will be contributing to Municipal Schools in Ghatkopar/Chembur, and Std. IX and X have taken up Shelter - Don Bosco.

We truly feel blessed at Christmas – because we are loved, and love in return, unconditionally!

Staff picnic in Goa

QUALITY TIME IN GOA - THE LAND OF SUN, SAND AND BEAUTIFUL BEACHES

After the class picnics, it was time for the school staff members to group together for a well deserved break from the hectic schedule of the school time table. And the place handpicked for this purpose was the land of sun, sand and beautiful beaches – Goa. The excitement among the staff kept building up as the day for the picnic drew near, and the enthusiasm was palpable in their confabulations and sprightly demeanor. On 11th December, fifty seven staff members -some with their young children –accompanied by Fr. Bernard Fernandes (Principal) and Ms. Nicole Britto (Vice-Principal) proceeded to CST station to board the train at 11.05 p.m. to Goa.

The train journey was filled with moments of fun, laughter, singing and the usual banter associated with group outings. The 'picnic group' alighted at Karmali railway station in the morning at 10.15 a.m. on 12th Dec. and got into the two awaiting mini-buses that were to take us to our picnic destination at LAR DE ESTUDANTES in Altinho, Panaji. The serene and peaceful atmosphere encompassing this place engulfed us, and the huge dormitories made the picnickers feel at home! This would go on to provide an ideal setting for prayer, informal meets, interactions, sing-song and camaraderie.

The entire duration of the picnic was very well organized, meticulously planned and expertly executed in a heart-warming style! Every moment spent together was truly enjoyable that helped build a rapport and bond among the staff members. The picnic program – handed over to every picnicker a day prior to our journey – chalked out the 'plan of action' that the group would follow to discover and explore GOA and its hidden beauty!

The tour of North Goa took us to Don Bosco, Panjim, Don Bosco, Odxel, and the scenic Dona Paula beach on the day we reached Goa. The next day we regaled in the blithe atmosphere of the famed beaches at Vagator, Anjuna, Baga and Calangute, while also spending time in glowing admiration of the picturesque and imposing structure of the Aguada Fort.  By the time, the party toured South Goa, the usually taciturn staff members had turned garrulous – what with bus rides packed with ditties, jokes, and games! While the visit to the churches in Old Goa – Bom Jesu Cathedral and the Se Cathedral – and the temple at Mangueshi, served as a fillip to our faith, the tour of the Savoi Spice Farm, Ponda (with the exotic Goan cuisine) and the Big Foot at Loutolim provided us insights into the Goan tastes, culture and history. There was time to soak in the majestic and the breathtaking view of the sunset at the pristine Colva beach as well as spend some exhilarating moments out there.

On all the days of the picnic, special arrangements were made for visits – and tea – at the homes of Fr. Bernard, Mr. Tony, Mrs.Cleo and Mrs. Madhavi. These added a personal touch to the entire picnic as a warm welcome was accorded to the picnickers by the family members of these our staff members. Touring Panjim city made us shop till we dropped! Our bags heavy, and our hearts light, we set out for our return trip on 15^th Dec. night.  The train reached Lokmanya Tilak Terminus (Kurla) on 16^th early morning carrying a group of picnickers wearing bright smiles and loads of precious memories of the kaleidoscopic events in Goa.

  

Visit of Stds. III and IV at Nehru Science Centre

Ignited Minds at Nehru Science Centre

- Mrs. Shalini Crasta & Ms. Queenie Aranjo

The students of class III and class IV of St. Joseph’s High School were presented a learning opportunity to witness the Western India Science Fair 2012-13 at Nehru Science Centre, Mumbai from 12^th-15^th Dec 2012.  This is one of the popular educational programs organized by the Centre every year.  While 73 students of Std. III made it to the exhibition on 13^th December, another 71 students from Std. IV availed of this chance on 14^th December 2012.  They were accompanied by our teachers, Mrs. Shalini, Mrs. Laila, Ms. Queenie, Ms. Chitra, Mrs. Doris, and Mrs. Sharmila.

Prior to the visit, the students were well instructed about the exhibition, and were asked to note down important points from keen observation.  Armed with their entry tickets, the students and the accompanying staff entered the exhibition centre, and grouped themselves into five units for a better and systematic visit to each counter at the venue.  A beeline was made to the following exhibits:

1)      Carpool- a student from Delhi school explained to us the possibility of using the car without causing harm to the atmosphere. He has been spreading this awareness and enlightening people with the various techniques of reducing carbon in different areas in Delhi, and with a good response at that.

2)  Rain Water Conservation- a Gujarat school student expounded the systematic approach to the conservation of rain water, and its fruitful use.

3)    Mechanical Energy- Here a student demonstrated how the wheels of a toy car and a remote control could be used to run the home appliances like T.V, fans, etc.

4)   Quick growth of Banana Fruit- A bright student from Don Bosco, Goa illustrated the use of a particular type of bag to hasten the growth of the banana fruit.

5)      Fruits we eat- The importance of the time, place and type of fruits to be eaten was elucidated at this counter. Intake of fruits is ideal early in the morning, and not immediately after a meal that slows down of the process of digestion.

  6)   Wind energy - Here we were presented with some innovative ideas to harness wind energy to drive a vehicle such as a rickshaw!

  7)   Alarm - the students from Chhattisgarh provided us with a fascinating theory that could help us prevent accidents through the use of machines such as the sugarcane machine that spins in reverse direction if one’s hand ever gets caught in the machine. The ringing of an alarm would save people from accidents.

    8)   Air- Mrs. Varsha gave a simple demonstration to show how water from a damaged water bottle    

      could be saved by the closing of the lid.

Coupled with the learning experience were the elements of fun and enjoyment for our students at the place of the exhibition.  We returned back happy for this event abundant with creative talent and having grown in knowledge borne through interaction and exchange of ideas.

Class picnics - Secondary section

From Shangrila, Thane to Silent Resort, Manor

-Ms. Casiola Fernandes and Master Nimit Kamdar

The assembly of secondary students on the school campus on 7^th December was abuzz with excitement anticipating a day of thrill and merriment.  After all, it was a day set aside for the class picnics. Shangrila Resort, Thane, it was for the students of Stds. V to VIII.  The students warmed up with songs and dance in the bus as they made it to their destination.  We arrived at the picnic spot at 10 am, and wasted no time, after some hot breakfast, to jump into the pool.  The tempting slides, the majestic rain dance, and the pool were star attractions.  After lunch, there were some among us who couldn’t resist the water and the pool – so off we went to the pool! Others recreated with some indoor games such as badminton, hide and seek, cricket …. We were served ice-cream and hot tea just before our departure from the resort.  Together with the class teachers and assistant staff members, we returned back after spending a wonderful, refreshing day at the site.

The destination for the picnic for the students of Std. IX was ‘The Silent Resort’ at Manor.  A pleasant and fun filled two hours bus ride took us to Manor, where we made it right to the site, thanks to the prior arrangement done by our teachers.  The lush green sprawling gardens and water park were mesmerizing.  How we wished to run and jump into the water rides!  However there was a delicious breakfast prepared for us, and it was time to satiate our hunger.  Thereafter, the ‘silent’ resort turned happily into a ‘noisy’ one with students jumping in the pool, and screaming their lungs out on the joy rides and roller coaster slides.  Tasty lunch with mouth watering pav bhaji and Chinese dishes was served at 1 pm.  We were back in the pool for another round of water games and swim.  Before long, it was time for refreshments –packet of pop corn and ice cream- and departure. We are grateful to our class teachers, accompanying staff members and the school management for this opportunity to come together and be rejuvenated. 

The Primary Class Picnic

Welcome to the Fun Junction

- Sunita D’Souza

The students of the Primary section – as the students of the secondary - waited with bated breath for the 7^th of December to arrive.  The reason:  It was the day of their class picnics, the most awaited event in their calendar, and rightly so. That’s an occasion for them to just break free to enjoy, scream, shout, dance, swim and sing to their heart’s content!

This year around our class picnic was organized by Team Adventure – a break with the past - who left no stone unturned to make this outing the most memorable one.  Being a new organization, a ripple of excitement and curiosity was evident to explore new territory. The students assembled in their respective classrooms as early as 7:45 am.  After the attendance and some important instructions by the teachers, the students lined up to board the buses that would take them to the picnic spot - SAINA RESORT, Malad. The teachers and the non-teaching staff accompanied and escorted the students on their way to the picnic spot, and they sure did bond well with their charges - singing, dancing and chatting with them. The team Adventure members surprised the students and staff with a generous serving of snacks during the journey.  Arriving at the resort at 10:15 am, the usually long distance appeared relatively short since every minute of the travel was filled with ‘masti’ and cheer.

The students placed their bags and picnic gear in the space apportioned to them, and they were then served piping hot breakfast which they relished happily after the journey. The swimming pool was irresistible, and the invitation alluring. The students were quick to get into the swimming outfits and jumped merrily into the pool. There were water slides, an umbrella shower and an area for rain dance. The music added to the lively spirit at the pool. Close by, the garden area had swings and a variety of playing props for the children to unwind and recreate.

Lunchtime, and the students were treated to a Indo-Chinese meal that was delicious. A magic show followed the luncheon that was enjoyed thoroughly by the students.  The magician left everyone spellbound with his magic tricks.        The students then lined up for the spinning rides that tossed them high up in the air – these rides could not be more thrilling!  

It was soon time to leave. The ice-cream served to the staff and the students provided the perfect icing on the ‘picnic’ cake. There was a parade back to the buses – but only after the students bid farewell to SAINA RESORT with fond memories in their hearts.  Team Adventure was not done yet. In the bus, they offered the picnickers popcorn and Parle –G biscuits to replenish all their spent energy. The journey back was equally awesome with games and banter.  Once at school, the students were lost in the welcoming arms (and hugs) of their parents; and they departed for their homes, but not before thanking their teachers and organizers for a ‘fun’tastic day! 

Birthday celebrations of our Vice-Principal Ms. Nicole Britto

Birthday greetings to a shining beacon!

Birthdays present us an opportunity to say THANK YOU.  And so it was for us on 5^th of December - the birthday of our dear Vice-Principal and Headmistress, Ms. Nicole Britto.  She was wreathed in smiles…and bouquets, wishes, cards and greetings.  Many accolades and praises came her way – and she did deserve every one of them!

The morning began with a prayer by the Principal, Fr. Bernard Fernandes, for Ms. Nicole on the occasion of her birthday.  He thanked God for the beautiful gift to us in the person of Ms. Nicole who dedicated herself selflessly to the cause of the students (especially the weak and the poor) entrusted to her care.  Master Neel read an address on behalf of the students singing paeans extolling the virtues and the commendable qualities of Ms. Nicole.  The birthday song sung by the entire assembly resounded through the classrooms and the corridors of the school.  The class representatives surprised the birthday girl with some exotic bonsai plants that accompanied their attractive and sentiment filled greeting cards. The young children of the Kg section – and Ms. Nicole does not hide her special love and preference for them – felicitated the Vice-Principal in their classrooms with cards, bouquets, songs and huge smiles.

At a special birthday session hosted by the school staff, Ms. Nicole was overwhelmed by the many greetings and heartfelt sentiments that poured in.  Fr. Godfrey, the Rector of the institution, doffed his hat to the headmistress for her magnanimity in offering her services to the school and the parish.  Later in the afternoon, Ms. Nicole was present with the study class children at a special sponsored lunch for them.  An unfeigned gratitude for someone who cares much for them was evident in their expressions of love and appreciation.

We are indeed privileged to have a great and dedicated Vice-Principal and Headmistress in Ms. Nicole Britto.  May God bless her hundredfold to carry forward the task of educating and guiding young students, and continue to be a committed shining beacon. 

Kg class picnic at Patwardhan Park

Children’s day out- Kg class picnic

The Benjamins of the Kg section of the school were the first to be out of the blocks for the school class picnics.  In a calendar packed with events leading up to the Christmas vacation, class picnics and the staff picnic are the major attractions.  It was the turn of the Kg students along with their staff today, 4^th December 2012, to go for their outing. Picnic bags on their shoulders, a water bottle round their neck, and with loads of excitement (of a little child), off they went to Patwardhan Park, Bandra!

Patwardhan Park is one of the few widespread gardens in Bandra, located amidst the hustle and bustle of the city. It offers everything that a searching, tired and restless soul seeks for - peace of mind amidst the lush green greenery, the sweet music and sounds of chirping birds,  a walking track for the early morning/late evening joggers and strollers, and an attractive play area for children.

Once there at the spot, our children had their plates full (for fun and enjoyment) – swings, roller coasters, slides, and a vast garden…all for themselves.  They jumped, they ran, they played, they showered (the sprinklers were God sent!) and they made merry.  After all that’s what a picnic is all about?!