ANNUAL OCDS RETREAT
“COLLEGIO DE CRISTO”

More than 40 Secular Carmelites of the Lower Mainland Communities, British Columbia, came together on August 8 to 10, 2014 for the Annual Retreat at Westminster Abbey in Mission, B.C. The theme was “Collegio de Cristo” (College of Christ), led by Rev. Fr. Jerald D’Souza, Provincial Delegate for OCDS of Western Canada.

The theme, one that examined community life and prayer life, was also this year’s theme of the XII Provincial Chapter of our Karnataka-Goa Province in India.

Fr. D’Souza’s passion and knowledge about the Secular Carmelite way of life was enthusiastic and very engaging. In his talks, he described the community life at St. Teresa de Avila’s Incarnation Convent before the reform and the salient features of Teresian Community. The community, the “small college of Christ”, is a product of divine grace. Its origin is from God. We are called to silence and our actions should convince others to holiness. Our way of life should inspire others to become good Catholics. The Secular Carmelite community life must be of humility, love and service.

Each day of the retreat was centered around the liturgy as the Secular Carmelites celebrated Mass and joined in prayer. There was joy in being together for the weekend retreat, but most inspiring were the words of guidance from our Provincial Delegate and the vision of Teresian community life he inspired all to achieve.

 

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