Media Release

Puttur, Nov 14: A one day retreat was organized for all the Catholic students of St Philomena PU and degree College, Puttur at Divya Chethana Chapel on November 11.

The retreat was conducted by Fr Rahul Dexter D'Souza, the assistant parish priest of Infant Jesus Church, Navoor Belthangady. He was accompanied by his team members, Rickson and Renisha, who assisted and led the singing of hymns and action songs.

The correspondent of Mai De Deus Institutions, Fr Lawrence Mascarenhas in his introductory remarks said, "Life is God's gift". He introduced the preacher, Fr Rahul Dexter D'Souza and welcomed the gathering.

The first session commenced with a prayer song. Fr Rahul Dexter D'Souza explained the need to thank God. Quoting the famous lines of the poet, Rabindranath Tagore, he said that offering flowers or lighting candles on the grave or speaking good words as a tribute to the dead is futile as the dead does not need them. He highlighted that everyone should spread light in others life, help the needy and speak kind words.

Fr Ashok Rayan Crasta, principal, St Philomena PU College, Puttur preached the word of God. In the sermon of Fr Rahul Dexter D'Souza, enlightened the basis of the life of a Catholic. He highlighted the role of the Holy Sacraments and the Ten Commandments in one's life.

All the retreatants received the Holy Sacrament of confession and then glorified the Lord through a Holy Adoration.

Fr Stany Pinto, the campus director proposed vote of thanks.

The annual retreat conducted under the aegis of the Divya Chethana Association was a fruitful one. It was an enriching experience with the enlightening preachings along with the praise, worship and lively hymns. Through this retreat, the retreatants derived the benefits of a spiritual reflection to strengthen their bond with the lord.