Media Release

Mangaluru, June 21: St Aloysius BEd College, marking the 450th birth anniversary of its patron St Aloysius Gonzaga, held a week-long celebration.

In order to develop contemplation leading to action, every day reflection on the values upheld by St Aloysius were conducted. These values of love, service, faith, compassion and unity amid differences were interpreted and translated into contemporary action both in-house and out. One such programme that highlighted the value of compassion and service was a visit to the old age homes.

The students expressed that this visit was an eye opener for them. Many of the inmates were waiting for visitors. They were happy just by meeting them. Some of the students expressed that the senior citizens in the ashrams had no need money or gifts, but they need attention and time. Some also said that while they are attached to digital gadgets, busy connecting to the world, they forget the world of such people in our vicinity. Students also said, they should not forget aging parents. "We have to understand the pain parents take to bring up their children and give them the best. Negligence of aged parents is a crime," they said.

Students were happy about the facilities provided in homes for the aged. The positive reaction of the students to the week-long celebrations, their emotional response of compassion triggered by the visit to the old age homes, reinforced the decision to make a monthly visit to the ashrams as a part of the BEd programme.

The week long activities culminate on the June 21 with the celebration of solemn mass and a cultural programme in collaboration with St Aloysius College Higher Primary School.