India News

By Fr Franklin Dsouza

Muringoor - Kerala, May 5 : On May 4, 2025, at 6 p.m., Bishop Robert Miranda graciously inaugurated the "Kutumbotsava" family retreat at the Divine Retreat Centre in Muringoor, Kerala. As Chairman of the Evangelization and Proclamation Commission and Episcopal Advisor of KRSC, Bishop Miranda's participation was highly significant to the event.

The inauguration ceremony commenced with the lighting of a lamp, followed by a celebration of the Holy Eucharist. This meaningful beginning established the tone for a spiritually enriching week-long retreat.

Fr Augustine Vallooran, VC, Director of the Divine Retreat Centre, extended a warm welcome to Bishop Robert Miranda and the assembled faithful from Karnataka. The retreat fostered a strong sense of community and shared purpose among the participating families from across the region.

The retreat featured prominent spiritual leaders, including:

- Fr. Franklin D'Souza, Spiritual Director of KRSC, from the Diocese of Shimoga
- Fr. Praveen, In-charge of the Kannada Section
- Fr. Philip K. P., from the Archdiocese of Bhopal
- Fr. Anthony D'Souza, CMF, from Bangalore
- Fr. Xavier Sebastian, from the Diocese of Belgaum.

The retreat received support from several clergy: Fr. Maria Xavier of Mysore, Fr. Antony Prasad of Bangalore, and Fr. Clifford Fernandes of Mangalore. Also in attendance from the Karnataka region were Bros. Mahime Raj, Nirmal, Gregory, Paul Jagadeesh, Amruth Raj, Simon, Mari Das, and Vinod, along with the ICYM & YU4C music team.

Fr. Augustine Vallooran VC, Director of the Divine Retreat Centre, Muringoor, Kerala, coordinated the Kutumbotsava, with assistance from Bro. Peter Augustine Mohan of Karnataka.

The "Kutumbotsava" initiative sought to reinforce familial bonds, cultivate spiritual development, and offer a forum for families to convene and revitalize their spirits. The retreat's thematic elements and activities were structured to promote faith, love, and unity amongst participants.

The inauguration of "Kutumbotsava" marked the beginning of a significant journey for the participating families. With the guidance of Bishop Robert Miranda and the support of the spiritual leaders, the retreat promised a transformative experience for everyone involved.