Carmel Fest 2024: Uniting Carmelite Formees in Spiritual Growth and Brotherhood
Carmel Fest is a unique triennial event organized by the Karnataka-Goa Province, bringing together Carmelite students in various stages of formation. This year's Carmel Fest, held from October 3rd to 6th at Carmel Home and Mount Carmel School, Belur, marked the fourth such gathering in the past twelve years. With the theme “Walking in Love,” inspired by the 150th Birth Anniversary and the Centenary of the Canonisation of St. Thérèse of Lisieux, Carmel Fest 2024 offered participants a rich blend of spiritual growth, fellowship, and community-building.

Day 1: October 3 – A Warm Welcome and Grand Opening
The event began on October 3rd with the warm welcome of the formees by Fr. Archibald Gonsalves, the Vicar Provincial and Convenor of Carmel Fest-2024, along with members of the Core Committee. Participants arrived from Mangalore and Mysore in buses sent by Mount Carmel School, Belur. At noon, the Holy Eucharist was celebrated by Fr. Prasanna Kumar, the Superior of the host community, seeking God’s blessings on the event.

The Grand Opening Ceremony took place in the evening, with Most Rev. Dr. Anthony Swamy, Bishop of Chickamagaluru, as the Guest of Honour. Fr. Ashwin D’Silva OCD, head of the Core Committee, led the ceremony, where participants were divided into four teams, each named after St. Thérèse—Marie, Francoise, Therese, and Martin. The brothers from Pushpashrama, began with a prayer hymn, followed by a formal welcome from Fr. Prasanna Kumar.

In a gesture of unity and commitment, the participants joined in singing the specially composed theme song, “Walking in Love,” by Fr. Aaron Babusha. This was followed by a march-past and the hoisting of the Carmel Fest flag. The Bishop delivered an insightful inaugural talk, reflecting on the spirituality of six prominent Carmelite saints. The festival torch was then lit by Rev. Fr. Silvestre D’Souza, the Provincial, who officially declared Carmel Fest 2024 open. The day concluded with an icebreaking session led by Fr. Aaron Babusha OCD, enabling participants to bond and interact with each other.

Day 2: October 4 – Spiritual and Athletic Endeavours
The second day began with morning prayers and a concelebrated Mass, presided over by Fr. Provincial. The day's first input session focused on the School Apostolate, with resource persons Fr. Joachim Rodrigues and Fr. Prakash Tauro offering their insights. The highlight of the morning was a Mega Quiz, conducted by quiz master Fr. Clifford Rodrigues, which tested the participants’ knowledge on various topics.

The afternoon saw intense volleyball matches, with both the formees and priests displaying tremendous enthusiasm, even in the face of occasional rain. The competitive spirit was maintained during a friendly match between the priests and the formees, embodying the spirit of brotherhood.

In the evening, the participants competed in a “Theme Song Singing Competition,” where they showcased their vocal talents and creativity. The day ended with indoor games, once again fostering camaraderie among the attendees.

Day 3: October 5 – Social Apostolate and Friendly Competition
On the third day, the Morning Prayer and Mass were led by Fr. Alphonse Britto, with a homily by Fr. Richard D’Souza from the Pontifical Biblical Institute, Rome. The morning sessions focused on the Social Apostolate, with presentations by Fr. Viresh Moras from the Diocese of Shivamogga and Fr. William Miranda, Secretary for Social Apostolate in the Province.

The afternoon was filled with outdoor games such as Tug of War, Dodge Ball, and Seven Tiles, all of which encouraged teamwork and friendly competition. The evening included more indoor games, providing an opportunity for participants to unwind after a day of physical activity.

Day 4: October 6 – Solemn Worship and Festive Conclusion
The final day began with a solemn Eucharist celebrated in Kannada, together with the faithful of St. Michael’s Parish. The celebrant for the Mass was Fr. Archibald Gonsalves, who led the congregation in a meaningful liturgical celebration.

The much-anticipated cricket match followed, adding a lively atmosphere to the festivity. After lunch, the participants visited the historical Chennakeshava Temple in Belur, which provided a cultural and spiritual experience.

The closing ceremony, a vibrant cultural event, took place in the evening. Each group presented a performance based on the theme “Walking in Love.” The chief guests for the evening were Very Rev. Fr. James Manampuram OCD, Provincial of the Delhi Province, and Rev. Fr. Soosai Rethinam OCD, Vicar Provincial of the Tamil Nadu Province. The celebration culminated in the announcement of the competition winners and the awarding of prizes. Team Marie was declared the overall champion, receiving the coveted trophy from the Provincial.

The festival concluded with the lowering of the Carmel Fest flag by Rev. Fr. Silvestre D’Souza, followed by a bonfire, marking the end of Carmel Fest 2024. The joyful event strengthened the bonds of fraternity among the participants and left everyone enriched with the spirit of St. Thérèse and the Carmelite family.