Czaplinek (Poland). In the first half of July 2024, the children and youths of St. John Bosco Oratory, of the Salesians of Don Bosco of Saint Adalbert Province (PLN), lived “Summer at the Oratory” in Czaplinek, on Lake Drawsko.
Don Bosco’s dreams were the background to the two rounds of the camp, organized and led by Fr. Michał Kwiatkowski, SDB, with Sister Marta Napora, FMA of Mary Help of Christians Province (PLA) and the animators. Each round was attended by 42 children, divided into three teams.
One of the animators describes the experience:
“The motto of our summer camp was ‘A dream come true’. Every day a different animator told the children a dream of Don Bosco. In the morning, we went to church for prayer and songs with gestures.
During the days, we experienced several special moments, including: a boat cruise, a trip to visit the alpacas, games at the sports hall, activities with the city guard, a game on the field, a movie, activities at the bee hives, a trip to a military base, dances, games, and much more. There was also a water battle that the children really liked. Returning to the oratory, there was a hot and delicious meal waiting for us.
At the end of each day, there was prayer and a mini contest of knowledge of Don Bosco’s dreams, previously told. They were then announced and rewarded with a small gift, the ‘great worker’ and the ‘kind person’. These were for the children of each team who had shown themselves to be available and exceptionally kind to others on that day.
At the end of each week, there was the presentation of the teams. Each presented their name, their poster, and their song. It was a moment of intense activity, to highlight each team and show their uniqueness.
During these summer camps, the children were able to integrate, expand their skills, learn to help, collaborate, and above all, have fun.
I would like to thank all those involved in the organization and management of these summer camps, helping to create a good atmosphere, especially Fr. Michał, Sister Marta, and the animators. I also express my gratitude to the parents, who trusted us and registered their children so that they could have a wonderful vacation. Thanks to you, each of us was able to make sure that the children had a beautiful memory of this summer time.”
The camps “Summer at the Oratory 2024” were co-financed through funds received from the Municipality of Czaplinek.
Photos: SDB and FMA of Czaplinek
