ST. CARLO ACUTIS VOCATION CAMP – October 2025
The “St. Carlo Acutis” Vocation Camp unfolded over two enriching days, October 3-4, 2025, at St. Joseph Monastery, Carmel Hill, Bikarnakatte, Mangaluru. This spiritual journey began on Friday evening at 5:00 PM and gracefully concluded on Saturday afternoon at 3:00 PM, bringing together 55 enthusiastic participants united in their quest to discern God’s call.

The inaugural ceremony was graced by the presence of Fr. Melvin D’Cunha, Superior of the St. Joseph Community, Mangaluru; Fr. Deep Fernandes, Master of Theology Students; Fr. Stifan Perera, Director of the Infant Jesus Shrine; and Fr. John Pinto, Procurator. Their presence set a profound spiritual tone, inspiring the participants to open their hearts to the divine invitation. Fr. Archibald Gonsalves, Vicar Provincial, delivered a meaningful message on the Carmelite vocation, urging the youth to respond generously to God’s call.

Highlights of the Camp
1. Inspiring Reflection: Fr. Deep Fernandes offered a moving reflection on the life and legacy of St. Carlo Acutis, whose youthful holiness and love for the Eucharist deeply resonated with the participants. His words inspired contemplation and a renewed desire to live with purpose and faith.

2. Witness of Vocation: The brothers from Asha Deepa shared their personal vocation stories, touching the hearts of the young attendees and beautifully illuminating the Carmelite charism of prayer, community, and service.

3. Joyful Activities: The camp also featured a variety of engaging experiences—collaborative group games, lively stage competitions, a captivating theme action song, and relaxing moments at the swimming pool. These activities encouraged creativity, teamwork, and joyful fraternity, enriching the spiritual dimension of the gathering.

4. Community Involvement: The wholehearted participation of community fathers, theology brothers under the leadership of Bro. Melrick, newly ordained deacons, and Bro. Floston added warmth, guidance, and depth to the camp. Their presence made the experience truly memorable for everyone.

A Call to Holiness and Commitment - The St. Carlo Acutis Vocation Camp 2025 proved to be a spiritually significant and grace-filled encounter for the aspirants. It awakened in many hearts a desire to discern God’s call with greater attentiveness and to consider embracing the Carmelite religious life with generosity and joy. The joyful theme and youthful energy of the camp resonated throughout, filling the atmosphere with happiness and fraternity.

The camp concluded with a prize distribution ceremony honouring the winners of various events, followed by a graceful closing ceremony. The chief guest, Fr. Joseph D’Souza, together with Fr. Clifford Rodrigues and Bro. Floston from Ryshivana, congratulated the participants and encouraged them to nurture their vocation journey.

Heartfelt gratitude is extended to Fr. Prithesh Crasta, Assistant Vocation Promoter, for his tireless efforts; Fr. Babusha Rodrigues for composing the inspiring theme action song; the community fathers and brothers for their active collaboration; and to all members of the Province for their prayers and support in making this camp a fruitful and grace-filled experience.