On 24th January Holy Child Auxilium, R.K.Puram of Class 2A presented an inspiring assembly on eco-friendly choices to protect our planet. They emphasized living in harmony with nature and shared simple steps like saving water, planting trees, and reducing pollution for a healthier planet. The students explained the importance of replacing plastic bags with reusable ones to protect wildlife and practicing eco-conscious living to safeguard the homes of birds, animals, and insects. The assembly concluded with an action song, “The Earth is My Home,” which conveyed a strong environmental message. The students spoke confidently, and their efforts were warmly applauded by Sister Mini, who praised their hard work and passion. The assembly was a meaningful presentation that ended with a slogan “Take care of Nature will take care of you”.
On 21st January Holy Child Auxilium School, R.K. Puram of Class 2 students presented an inspiring and creative assembly on the theme, “How We Can Take Care of Nature and Share Its Gifts with Others.” The assembly beautifully illustrated the importance of using nature’s resources wisely, sharing them fairly, and taking small actions to protect the planet. The program began with a relatable and engaging analogy. The students asked the audience to imagine a big cake. If one person eats most of it, there won’t be enough for others. However, if everyone takes only what they need, there will be enough for all, with some left over. This simple example introduced the concept of ecological economics, which emphasizes using nature’s gifts carefully so that no one is harmed and resources are preserved for future generations. The students shared actionable tips to care for nature, such as turning off taps to save water, planting trees, throwing trash in bins, and avoiding food waste. They highlighted how small actions, when done by everyone, can make a big difference in protecting the planet. A heartwarming story, “The Boy and the Tree,” was performed by the students to reinforce the message. The story depicted a boy who loved a tree that gave him shade, fruits, and a place to rest. When the boy decided to cut the tree for wood, the tree asked, “If you cut me, where will you rest and play?” This made the boy realize how much the tree cared for him, and he promised to protect it forever. The moral of the story, “Take care of nature, and it will take care of you,” was delivered with sincerity and clarity. The students also shared thought-provoking quotes to inspire the audience. Mahatma Gandhi’s words, “Nature provides enough for everyone’s needs, but not for everyone’s greed,” and Howard Zinn’s reminder, “Small acts, when multiplied by millions of people, can transform the world,” resonated deeply. The assembly concluded with a heartfelt prayer, where students expressed gratitude for the beauty of nature and sought guidance to protect and share it responsibly. The program ended on a high note with all students pledging to take care of the Earth and encouraging others to join them in preserving its beauty. Class 2’s assembly was a touching reminder that even young voices can inspire positive change. Their creative and thoughtful presentation left everyone motivated to take small steps every day to ensure a greener, healthier planet for all.
On January 29, 2025, the Green Ambassadors of classes VI-IX and XI embarked on an exciting visit to Bharat Darshan Park for a nature walk along with Sr. Lemnom Mosang, Ms Shanti, and Ms Neeraj. They left school at 8:30 am brimming with excitement and anticipation and at their destination, they were warmly welcomed with scrumptious refreshments. The park, an extraordinary open-air museum, offered a glimpse into Indian history and culture. It featured stunning replicas of iconic monuments such as the Taj Mahal, Char Minar, Hawa Mahal, Meenakshi Temple, and many more. These replicas were truly remarkable because they were created entirely from recycled metal junk, including gas stoves, cylinders, electric poles, and engines.
The entire park is furnished with solar panels and other eco-friendly elements, showcasing sustainable design. The students eagerly gathered information from the staff and display boards about the materials, time, and techniques used to craft the intricate models of these monuments. The level of detail in the models left the group in awe and curiosity. Even after taking numerous photos and spending time admiring the designs, the students were reluctant to leave.
After a brief lunch under the shade of beautiful green trees and a final look at the creative artworks, the students bid farewell to the park. It was an incredible experience of both learning and enjoyment, leaving us with lasting memories of a delightful day.
“There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” Galatians 3:28
On January 25, 2025, Auxilium Convent School, Dum Dum, hosted a meaningful Christian fellowship meeting with the theme “WE ARE ONE IN CHRIST,” as part of the final day of the Unity Octave. The event was organized by Sr. Stella, the animator of Auxilium Convent Dum Dum, with the consent and support of Fr. Irudaya Raj, the Parish Priest of St. Patrick’s Church, Dum Dum. Sr. Stella expressed her deep gratitude to Mr. Ashok Dolui, whose tireless efforts were instrumental in bringing together pastors from various Christian denominations. This fellowship gathering brought together members from five different denominations who joined hands in prayer, fostering unity in Christ.
The prayer meeting commenced at 6:00 pm in the school hall, and the evening began with Mr. Ashok Dolui introducing the esteemed personalities present. Sr. Stella extended a heartfelt welcome to all attendees, thanking the pastors for accepting the invitation to participate in the prayer meeting. Among the honoured guests was Fr. Irudaya Raj, who took the opportunity to felicitate Pastor Rev. Ritesh Kumar, the Bishop-elect of Believers’ Church, with a bouquet. The presence of other distinguished pastors was also acknowledged with the presentation of utorio Pastor Rev. Gopa Mondol of the Assembly of God’s Church, Pastor Rev. Deben Pramanik of the Seventh-Day Adventist Church, Pastor Rev. Sukmal Kumar of the Baptist Church, and Pastor Rev. Thatheus Alfred of the Berachah Evangelical Church.
Soon after the welcoming ceremony, the gathering invoked God’s presence through the lighting of the lamp. Sr. Stella, Fr. Irudaya Raj, the five pastors, and their representatives were invited to light the lamp together, the symbol of the shared light of Christ among the diverse Christian communities present. The Auxilium staff further enriched the atmosphere by welcoming the gathering with a melodious song.
Following the lighting of the lamp, the priest and pastors were invited to speak on the theme “We Are One in Christ.” Fr. Irudaya Raj began the address on the theme of creating a new heaven and new earth, followed by a prayer song performed by the Auxilium Sisters and staff. Each of the five pastors then took the opportunity to share their reflections on the theme. After the presentations, the gathering participated in a special moment of sharing their faith in Jesus by exchanging lighted candles accompanied by the song bind us together Lord, symbol of the spreading of Christ’s light to one another.
Fr. Irudaya Raj concluded the prayer moment with a short prayer for unity and the whole assembly prayed for communion in Jesus Christ. The evening was further uplifted by a soulful performance from the Bengali Choir of St. Patrick’s Church, Dum Dum. The event concluded with a Vote of thanks, and the serving of snacks, and the participants had the chance to engage in conversations to know each other to build relationships. The evening concluded with a spirit of friendship and shared faith, as the participants left with a renewed sense of fellowship and hope for greater unity among Christian communities.
On 26 January 2025, Sr. Alma Bilung, the SDC of the province, along with a team of dedicated helpers, organized a blanket distribution event in St. Anthony’s Jaigaon for the less fortunate of the area. The event aimed to provide warmth and relief to those who are struggling, particularly during the cold season.
In preparation for the distribution, Sr. Alma and Sr. Paulina took the initiative to visit and assess various localities in the neighbourhood. Their goal was to identify the most vulnerable and those who were in genuine need of the blankets. This thoughtful approach ensured that the distribution would reach those who needed it the most.
On the day of the event, Sr. Alma, accompanied by Sir Dawa and several volunteers, worked together to distribute the blankets to the deserving recipients. The event was met with gratitude and appreciation from the community members, who expressed their thanks for the timely assistance. The accomplishment of this event is a testament to the commitment of Sr. Alma, Sr. Paulina, and all the volunteers involved in this noble cause. Their efforts in reaching out to the most vulnerable people in Jaigaon have made a meaningful impact, providing warmth and relief to many families during the cold winter days.
On 24th January 2025, H.C.Auxilium marked the 76th Republic Day with a meaningful and vibrant celebration. The program began with heartfelt prayers, seeking blessings for the nation, the armed forces, and future generations. Speeches in both English and Hindi emphasized the importance of Republic Day, its historical relevance, and the values enshrined in the Indian Constitution. Special dance performances showcased India’s cultural unity and paid tribute to the country’s brave soldiers. The highlight of the day was the H.C.A. parade, which featured yoga asanas, celebrated cultural diversity, and honoured the women achievers of India.
Sr. Mini congratulated the students and teachers on their efforts and encouraged young students to embrace the values of unity, integrity, and justice in their daily lives as responsible citizens. The event concluded with the National Anthem, resonating with the collective pride and patriotism of all present.
On 9th January 2025, the students of class 7B conducted the Auxi Green Movement on the topic of Rainwater Harvesting and Hydrosphere. The programme’s main aim was to raise awareness about the importance of conserving water and to educate the audience on the methods and advantages of rainwater harvesting to prevent water scarcity. The event began with a short skit discussing the advantages of rainwater harvesting. A speech on the benefits and methods of rainwater harvesting followed this. Lastly, the programme ended with a self-composed song that motivated everyone to conserve and store rainwater. The programme raised awareness and motivated all the participants and the audience to take steps towards conserving water. If everyone adopts the techniques demonstrated during the programme, our society can collectively work towards a greener and water-secure future.
KSSDS: The World Day of the Poor 2024 was commemorated with great commitment bringing attention to the struggles faced by the poor and marginalised. The event aimed to foster solidarity, uplift the underprivileged and encourage actionable responses to poverty.
The theme for this year, “Do not turn your face away from any of the poor”, resonated deeply, calling for compassion and practical efforts to address the challenges of poverty. Hence, Kolkata Salesian Sisters Development Society (KSSDS) marked this day with a special outreach initiative to support 36 migrant families near Dum Dum railway station.
The distribution included a thoughtful selection of necessities such as cooking oil, detergent, soybean, salt, biscuits, and bucket. These items were carefully chosen to meet immediate needs and to provide some relief to the families. KSSDS ensured that everything was well-organized and distributed to the beneficiaries. The event was graced by the presence of our Provincial, Sr. Leelamma, whose kind and encouraging words added a special touch to the day. Her presence brought a sense of care and compassion to the beneficiaries.
Each family member who came to collect the items expressed their heartfelt gratitude. Their faces lit up with happiness as they received these provisions, which they described as timely and valuable support for their households. The event provided material aid and lifted their spirits, showing they were cared for and not forgotten.