Recount Text – Saint Mary’s Way

 Recount Text – Saint Mary’s Way

by Geraldine K.P

Orientation

On October 11, 2025, my friends and I from Santa Maria Junior High School carried out a social visit to the Cahaya Kasih Orphanage in Bandung. The visit had been planned weeks earlier, and before the actual day, we spent a considerable amount of time preparing everything that would be needed. Our group originally consisted of fifteen students, although two of our members—Vidy and Aurora—were unable to attend on the actual day due to personal reasons. Even so, the rest of us were determined to ensure the event went smoothly. Our main purpose was simple yet meaningful: to bring joy, share kindness, and create memorable moments with the children living at the orphanage.

Events

The preparation process was quite thorough. It started with a group discussion where everyone contributed ideas. We shared thoughts about what activities would be appropriate, what items we needed to bring, and how to divide responsibilities fairly. After finalizing the list of materials, I went shopping with Jesslyn, Vidy, Tia, and Ayu. We purchased snacks, stationery, and several other items that would later be used in our activities. Once everything was ready, we worked together to pack around seventy goodie bags. Each bag contained four to five snacks, carefully selected to ensure the children would enjoy them. We also finished creating a “wishing tree,” where the children could write their hopes and dreams on small pieces of paper. Additionally, we prepared a detailed rundown to guide the flow of the event from beginning to end.

On the day of the visit, we traveled to the orphanage located at Jl. Karya Mukti No. 132. Although we arrived slightly later than planned, the warm welcome from the children and caretakers immediately eased the tension. Their bright smiles and cheerful greetings made us feel truly accepted and appreciated.

The event began with a simple introduction session. Each of us briefly shared our names and schools, and the children introduced themselves in return. This helped break the ice and made the atmosphere more relaxed. After the introductions, we invited the children to sing several Sunday School songs together. Their energetic voices filled the room, and soon everyone—students and children alike—was singing wholeheartedly.

Next, we moved to a puzzle-building activity. The children were divided into small groups, each accompanied by one or two of us. The younger children needed more assistance, but their enthusiasm made the activity lively and enjoyable. They eagerly searched for the correct puzzle pieces, celebrating each time they successfully completed a part of the picture.

After finishing the puzzle activity, we continued with coloring sessions. We distributed coloring sheets and crayons, and the children immediately began filling the pages with bright colors. Some preferred using bold shades, while others took their time choosing softer tones. Throughout this activity, laughter, small conversations, and joyful chatter filled the room, creating a warm and cheerful atmosphere.

We then gathered again to sing another round of songs. This second singing session felt even more meaningful because by then, everyone had grown more comfortable with one another. The children’s smiles and laughter showed that they were genuinely enjoying the time spent together.

Before concluding the event, we distributed the goodie bags and essential daily supplies we had brought. Although the items were simple, we hoped they would be beneficial and bring happiness to the children. After that, we circled together for a closing prayer, expressing gratitude for the meaningful experience and praying for blessings upon the children and caretakers. We said our goodbyes at around 11:00 a.m., feeling fulfilled and grateful.

From this visit, I gained many valuable lessons. I realized that not everyone experiences love, comfort, and care the way we often do. Even small acts of kindness can make a difference in someone’s life. The children taught me to appreciate the simple things and to value every person as a unique creation of God. Most importantly, the experience reminded me to live with gratitude and to share kindness whenever possible.

Reorientation

Overall, our visit to the Cahaya Kasih Orphanage was truly meaningful. Beyond bringing joy to the children, the experience taught me to be more compassionate and aware of the needs of others. The values I gained align with the message in Genesis 48—showing love, offering attention, and recognizing that every individual is precious in God’s eyes. I went home with a warm heart and a renewed desire to continue spreading love and kindness to the people around me.