Pannur- Manvi Twinning Programme

Empathy instead of sympathy; inclusion instead of isolation; and social sensitivity instead of social apathy are the hallmark of the Jesuit way of life. At St Joseph’s Boys’ High School, Bengaluru, we look to fostering a strong moral and spiritual character, especially during a crisis.

Our Principal, Fr Sunil Fernandes SJ, the Primary School Administrator Rev Fr Joel Fernandes SJ and twelve members of the faculty visited the Pannur-Manvi Mission from the 27th to the 29th of November 2020, as part of the Twinning Program.

The SJBHS team, on arrival, was given a warm welcome with a traditional aarthi and a scrumptious dinner; inhibitions were shed and familiarity was established.

An introductory session was held on the 28th of November with the pioneer of the Mission, Fr Maxim Rasquinha SJ, in attendance. The joy that radiated from his face while narrating his experiences spoke volumes about the work, accomplishments and endeavours of the missionary. A video presentation of the same was also screened. The team, then, had an interactive session with the Xavier and Loyola School teachers to understand how ideas and resources could be shared.

This was followed by a quick visit to the Loyola Kapepaladi School at Jagir Pannur, where a felicitation program awaited the team. What followed was a quick village visit, another hot tasty meal at the hostel and an interaction with the self-help groups (SHGs). They sang beautiful folk songs highlighting their trials and tribulations. The evening comprised of a refreshing walk in and around the vast campus filled with greenery. The day ended with an evaluation session of the visit.

On 29th, soon after Sunday Mass, the team left for Bengaluru with hearts filled with joy and pride for being a part of this year’s Twinning Program. A quick stop over at Hampi was an unplanned surprise!