Christmas Fraternity at Empoli
The Carmelite friars of the Karnataka-Goa Province (including the Vicariate of Tanzania) in Italy stayed faithful to the long-standing tradition of celebrating their fraternity at Christmas, by gathering together at Empoli on December 28. A total of 12 fathers and 4 brothers serving and/or studying in various parts of Italy were present with some coming a day earlier to help with the arrangements. Rev. Fr Pius D’Souza, the Definitor General, also graced the occasion with his presence. The celebration formally began with the mass at noon. Fr Ambrose D’Souza, in honour of his 50 years of life, presided over it, while Fr Raymond Sangu, the latest arrival to Italy, shared an inspiring reflection. The brothers elevated the liturgy with their singing. A sumptuous lunch followed, prepared under the guidance of Frs Roshan and Elias, and accompanied by Frs Ambrose, Ajith and Selva. The meal table reverberated with the sounds of laughter and camaraderie characteristic of a vibrant fraternal communion. All those who celebrated or were to celebrate birthdays and ordination anniversaries were felicitated with a cake cut in their honour. Each one also shared the experience of their life in Italy and looked forward to the future with hope. The meal concluded with a word of sincere gratitude to the community of Empoli for hosting the gathering. Once again, all the friars put their hands together to put everything in order, before some who had to return to their respective ministries began saying their goodbyes. It was a day to remember that gave each one a sense of home away from home. May the Christ Child continue to strengthen this beautiful bond of fraternity in Carmel.