Caritas FINs Outing

Splash of Joy: Caritas MJD Outing with Friends-in-Need

On Saturday 19 August 2023, 142 Friends-in-Need (FINs) and volunteers from various parishes in South Johor came together for a joyful day out at Pulai Springs Resort. The sunny morning saw everyone enjoying telematch games that ended with a water balloon fight! Children, bubbling with excitement, couldn't wait to plunge into the resort's inviting swimming pool. The adults proceeded to join the Smart Money Management workshop where they had a chance to learn and get some tips on how to make better financial decisions for their families.  At noon, it was time for a delicious buffet lunch. The spaghetti and french fries were a hot favourite among the children. Amidst bites of delicious food, connections were forged, and friendships kindled.

Adults and Kids engaging in a telematch

Despite the TNB power black out and the heavy rain in the afternoon that curtailed the movie time and Smart Money Management workshop for children, their spirits were not dampened. Undeterred, volunteers transformed the situation into an opportunity, crafting impromptu table games that filled the hall with even more laughter and joy. Plenty of prizes were up for grabs much to the delight of the kids. At around 3pm, power was restored and the rain finally cleared up. The children received the green light for one last swim and their faces lit up with ecstatic joy! Even adults also joined in the fun at the pool. At 4pm, the final whistle was blown for everyone to get out of the pool which they reluctantly did. Soon it was time for a group photo followed by tea time. Farewell and hugs among friends and new acquaintances ended this beautiful outing.

Smart Money Management workshop for the adults

Children enjoying a refreshing pool swimming

The day left an indelible mark on all who participated. Nagammal couldn’t contain her sentiment as she exclaimed, "Ini hari kita enjoy, banyak-banyak best. Semua ok, makan pun lazat. Anak-anak pun banyak happy." ("Today we truly enjoyed ourselves, everything was fine, and the food was delicious. The children are very happy.") Rajeswari echoed the sentiment, saying, "Saya hari ini happy sangat sebab semua datang sini ada budak dan ada swimming pool dapat mandi dan enjoy lagi makan-makan ada, dapat release kita punya mind. Thank you." ("I am very happy today because the children had the chance to swim in the swimming pool and enjoy the food. It helps to relieve stress. Thank you.")

Fr Martinian’s presence added a touch of warmth, dining with volunteers and interacting with the FINs. Kudos to all volunteers from POHD St Theresa (Masai), POHD St Joseph (Plentong), POHD Sacred Heart Cathedral (JB), POHD Holy Family Church (Ulu Tiram), POHD Christ the King (Kulai) and SSVP Church of Immaculate Conception (JB) who helped organised and even ferry the FINs for the day.

A day of joy and togetherness