Sr. Gracemary –
It was indeed a unique celebration of Boy Child Day (7-14 years) organized by the Women’s Commission of Krishnagar of West Bengal, joyfully remembering Blessed Carlo Acutis, the patron of the internet and a shining model for today’s youth. On Sunday, 24 August at 9 a.m., nearly 150 boys of Krishnagar Parish gathered in the parish hall for a day filled with prayer, joy, and learning.
The program began with vibrant praise and worship, where Michael and Suraj, teachers of Don Bosco School led the boys in singing, dancing, and sharing values of Jesus, especially inspired by the life of Blessed Carlo. Through songs and actions, they helped the boys understand the meaning of prayer—when and how to pray—and gave them a refreshing experience of one day without studies, books, tuition, or even mother’s scolding!
The sessions took a deeper turn when Rev. Fr. RaKesh, Parish Priest, spoke with warmth and humor. He reminded the boys of Carlo’s example as the patron against mobile addiction. To illustrate this, he narrated a striking incident: even a few months-old baby, crying during baptism, became calm only when the father played a familiar sound from the mobile. He showed how easy it is for even little ones to fall prey to digital habits, making Carlo’s message ever more relevant.
Fr. Bharat Kumar, Principal of St. Antony’s School, then drew the boys’ attention to the world of gaming and online distractions that capture their time—such as PUBG, Free Fire, Call of Duty, Fortnite, FIFA, Asphalt. He pointed out that while these games are exciting, they often consume hours of their precious time, keeping them away from studies, family, and prayer. He reminded them that Carlo too loved computers, but instead of wasting time, he turned his talent into something life-giving—creating a website on Eucharistic miracles that continues to inspire the world. That is why Carlo is remembered today as the “Saint of the Website.”
Sumita, a gifted teacher, captured the boys’ attention through lively songs and meaningful stories. Even though it was the last session at midday, the children responded with enthusiasm, making her teaching on coping with daily problems truly impactful. She shared the inspiring story of the eagle’s renewal, comparing it to how faith and patience can give us strength to rise again.
After a short tea break, the group moved to the spacious Cathedral Church for the highlight of the day: the Holy Eucharist celebrated by Rev. Fr. Ashish Vincent Das, Vicar General of Krishnagar Diocese. With his commanding voice, musical spirit, and deep devotion, he made the Mass a truly participatory experience. At one point, he invited all 150 boys to gather around the large Cathedral altar. The sight of usually restless boys standing and responding with piety and devotion was, indeed, a blessing and, as many felt, a miracle through the intercession of Blessed Carlo.
The day concluded with a sumptuous meal of biryani, after which parents joyfully took their children home at 2.30 p.m. The event left everyone with a sense of satisfaction that something beautiful had begun in the faith formation of these young boys. As the saying goes, “Catch them young”—and with Carlo Acutis as their friend and guide, the boys of Krishnagar parish had indeed taken a step closer to God.
Sr. Gracemary is Secretary, Women Commission, Krishnagar.