Little flowers to the Little Flower!
Pushpashrama Institute of Philosophy and Religion, Mysore, joyfully celebrated the solemnity of St Thérèse of the Child Jesus, the Patroness of the Institute on 4th October with great joy. The celebration began with a solemn Holy Mass at the Infant Jesus Shrine at 11. 00 AM. Fr Alphonse Britto, Rector of the Institute, was the main celebrant, joined by the priests of the community, Provincial Councillor Fr Oswald Crasta, guest priests from Dhyanavana and Dhyanasadhana, as well as SVD and Jesuit priests. In his homily, Fr Prasanna Kumar reflected on the simple yet extraordinary life of St Thérèse. He highlighted how her “little way” of love continues to encourage believers to find holiness in ordinary daily acts. The Eucharistic celebration witnessed the gathering of a considerable number of devotees, sisters, candidates and students from Dhyanavana. Following the Eucharistic celebration, sweets and prayer bookmarks were distributed to all those present.

The celebration continued with a gathering at the refectory of the Institute at 12:30 p.m. Long-standing benefactors, neighbouring communities of sisters and priests, and members of communities served by the Pushpashrama priests were warmly welcomed. Fr Rector expressed his gratitude to the guests for their support, friendship and collaboration in the mission of Pushpashrama. During the event, Mrs Maggie, the newly elected President of the Konkani Association was felicitated.

The brothers added joy and enthusiasm to the gathering through a quiz on St Thérèse and lively spot games. A special highlight was the action song, “Walking in Love,” which invited everyone to participate with cheerful dance and shared joy. Fr Vijay D’Costa with humour and wit offered the vote of thanks. Fr Richard, Rector of the SVD Seminary, Vidya Niketan, then prayed the grace before meals. The gathering concluded with a grand lunch, enjoyed warmly by all.