FLOS CARMELI, OCDS – HONNAVAR COMMUNITY HOSTS ONE-DAY TRAINING PROGRAM
On August 3, 2025, the Flos Carmeli, OCDS – Honnavar Community organized a one-day training program centered on the theme: “Growing in the Spirit of Carmel: Building a Faithful and Formed Secular Carmelite Life.” The purpose of the event was to nurture the spiritual formation, strengthen community life, and deepen the commitment of Secular Carmelites to their vocation.
The program began at 10:00 a.m. with participant registration, followed by a brief inauguration ceremony at 10:30 a.m. The sessions were led by resource persons from the St. Teresa of Avila Community, Bikarnakatte, Mangaluru.
Session Highlights
Session 1: Study & Vocation – "Called and Committed"
Resource Person: Ms. Jane Sequira, OCDS
Ms. Jane shed light on the essence of the Secular Carmelite vocation, emphasizing a life rooted in prayer, study, and a committed response to the Church’s mission.
Session 2: Communication – "Reading Skills"
Resource Person: Ms. Laveena Dmello, OCDS
This session highlighted the importance of reading and comprehension for spiritual growth, reflection, and effective participation in community life.
Session 3: Meditation & Inner Life – "Lectio Divina"
Resource Person: Ms. Jessy Lobo, OCDS
Participants were introduced to the prayerful method of Lectio Divina, learning to read, meditate, pray, and contemplate the Word of God to foster a deeper spiritual connection.
Group Dynamics Activity
Facilitator: Mr. Varun D’Souza
Interactive group activities were conducted to foster teamwork, unity, and a spirit of collaboration among members.
Session 4: Prayer & Family Life
Resource Person: Ms. Lucy Pais, OCDS
This session emphasized balancing family responsibilities with spiritual commitments, with prayer being the cornerstone of a strong family life.
Session 5: Qualities of a Counsellor – "Values and Attitudes"
Resource Person: Ms. Laveena Dmello, OCDS
Key qualities such as empathy, patience, and moral integrity were discussed as essential traits for those guiding others within the community.
Session 6: Community & Teamwork
Resource Person: Ms. Laveena Dmello, OCDS
The final session focused on nurturing harmony, mutual support, and active participation in the life of the Secular Carmelite community.
Feedback and Conclusion:
The program concluded with a feedback session at 4:00 p.m., during which participants expressed their heartfelt gratitude for the enriching and spiritually uplifting sessions. Many shared that the training deepened their understanding of their Carmelite identity and strengthened their resolve to live faithfully in the spirit of Carmel.
