San Jose, California: A field trip was organized for children from grades 4 to 8 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in San Jose under the auspices of Cherupushpa Mission League (CML).

The first trip was to the Carmel Mission Basilica, located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, a coastal area of California. This basilica was founded in 1771 by Saint Junipero, the patron saint of California, an early Franciscan missionary, and one of the 11 Catholic saints of America. Saint Junipero’s physical body is buried inside this basilica. The room he used during his time, other historical objects, and paintings are beautifully preserved here. These sights not only aroused the curiosity of the children, but also helped in spiritual awakening and understanding California in the 1700s.

Later, the next trip was to the Carmelite Monastery of Our Lady and Saint Therese, a convent located overlooking the Pacific Ocean. There, Mother General Sister Theresa and other sisters shared with the children about the history of the Carmelite monastery, its rituals, prayer methods, and vocation story. The children expressed their gratitude and happiness at being able to learn about the lifestyle of the nuns, who are deeply rooted in spiritual life.

The thoughtful leadership and planning that ensured the success of this field trip were provided by the parish vicar and Mission League Director, Fr. Jamie Puthusserilum, Vice Director Anu Velikattelum, along with the joint organizers Robin Elanjikal and Sheetal Maravettikkoottill, and the organization’s executives Nathan Palakkatt, Teresa Vattamattill, Nikitha Poozhikunnel, and Joshua Thuruthelkalamthil. Along with them, the Veda teachers and a few parents of the children participated as volunteers.