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Chennai, Sep. 18: Workshop on National Theme. Thrust:  Food Crisis. At Pastoral Centre, Chennai on 17.09.2011

September 17, 2011! A memorable day! Yes, it was a memorable day for the YCS/ YSM students of Chennai Diocese. A training program was organized by the YCS/ YSM- India on “Food Crisis”- one of the thrusts of the National Theme: “Students for the Green & Harmonious World”.

The empty hall was found full of students around 10 a.m. Students from 8 selected schools had the privilege to participate in the program. The main purpose of the workshop is to prepare Lesson Plans on “Food Crisis”, through our movement’s methodology: Awareness Reflection  Action Evaluation and the lesson plans will be sent to all the units of India to discuss in their own cells for their cell meetings.

The workshop began with a prayer song by the students of St. Bedes A.I. HSS. Fr. Charles, the National Chaplain welcomed the students and the animators on behalf of the YCS/ YSM- India. With the help of a Clock Game, Leo Joseph made the students to get to know each other. The value of punctuality was learnt by the participants through the game.

The National Chaplain made the delegates to understand about the “Food Crisis”, through data and events that are occurring in the society on daily basis. The students too asked questions and made the session live. They realized the value of food they eat every day and became aware that millions and millions of people who are starving and dying without a single meal.

Through power points and videos, Deepak and Leo, the ex- ysmers helped the delegates to become aware of what is happening in and around of the country and the universe. It gave a powerful and heart- touching message to them. Before breaking for lunch, the group was divided into 5 to have a group discussion on Food Crisis in general to know and realize to Act as an ysmer in the future.

“Mandalena”, the famous action song recharged the students. A Short clipping from a documentary was also shown to the students to reflect upon the theme. Fr. Charles briefly explained the methodology of our movement with vivid examples. Based upon the methodology, the students were divided into various groups to prepare the lesson plans on various topics namely: Food & Farmer, Food & Poor, Food Security of India, Food and Wastage, Food & Distribution, Food & Production, Food & Nature, Right to Food. After discussing about 45 minutes the students came out with some interesting and practical methods for the Lesson Plans. Finally, the participants shared their experience being together the whole day. Miss. Nancy, the Regional Representative of the Diocese gave the Vote of Thanks and brought the program to an end with our movement’s anthem.

Special thanks to the Youth Commission of Diocese of Madras - Mylapore, Fr. Clement- the DYD, Br. Arun- the Coordinator and Kamal, the Diocesan president for their help and support in making this program a memorable one.