Fraternitas – Namma Kudla Region’s Gathering
Fraternitas, the first get-together for this triennium of Namma Kudla Region of four communities in South Canara and Udupi districts, was held on Tuesday, July 18, 2023, at Ryshivana, Ranipura-Mangalore. Friars from the 3 houses namely, St Joseph's Monastery, Mangaluru, Carmel Ashram, Koteshwar, Asha Deepa, and Madanthyar arrived at the venue of the host community at 10 am.

As the friars began arriving, the Community offered a tasty Tender Coconut drink with a lemon flavour. Later when all the friars gathered at the Conference Hall, Fr Rudolph Pinto, the Director of Ryshivana extended a formal welcome to those present. Fr Melvin D'Cunha, the Superior of St Joseph's Monastery and the Convener of Fraternitas appointed by the Provincial Council in his initial remarks spelled out the purpose of the gathering.

Fr John Sequeira presented a research paper on St Therese of Lisieux and her insights as the church makes efforts to be enriched by her spiritual depth during the 150th year of her birth. He highlighted the historical background of France of her days, the bitter-sweet situation pervading in the family atmosphere, and other aspects that influenced the life and spirituality of St Therese. It was appreciated by all. After the exposition of the theme, Friars shared their insights and expertise on the same and enriched each other.

Later the Superiors of the four Communities gave an overall view of their community in reference to the present setup, the personnel, present challenges, and future plans. After praying the midday prayer, a sumptuous meal was served. The afternoon session was an ‘open house’ and each Friar shared their experiences, challenges, and struggles in living the Carmelite vocation as well as in carrying out the responsibility that the Province has entrusted with. While appreciating the work that is done by each Friar, the others offered their valuable suggestions for calibrating and reinforcing their mission.

Decisions:
a. Fr Stifan Perera was unanimously elected as the Coordinator of the Fraternitas.
b. The floor was open to the idea of having 4 gatherings in a year since we have 4 houses in the region.
c. The next Get-together will be held in the month of October and Carmel Ashram volunteered to host the same.
d. The floor suggested that besides the spiritual and doctrinal material, relevant pastoral issues could also be dealt with during the input sessions.
e. The Friars were of the opinion that some of the points that arose while sharing could be sent to the Provincial for consideration and action.

Thus, the maiden Fraternitas came to an end at 4 pm with tea. Out of 28 members of the region 19 were present; almost 2/3 majority.