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Ranipura,
Nov 23 : Ryshivana An Institute for Inner Silence and Contemplation located in
Ranipura run by the Carmelite Fathers, celebrated its annual Day on 22 November
2022. This event coincided with the Plenary Assembly of the Karnataka Goa
Province of the Carmelite Fathers. The Solemn Euchrist was celebrated in the
morning at 7.00 by Very Rev Fr George Santhumayor, the Provincial. Fr John
Sequeira preached a touching.jpg)
Homily. The participants of the Annual Certificate Course conducted a very
meaningful liturgy.
The
Director Fr Archie thanked one and all for their continued support and
congratulated the participants of the 15th batch of Spiritual Renewal Course
that includes both priests and Nuns. Hundreds of priests, nuns and lay people
flock to Ryshivana for a God experience. Thanks to Fr John Lobo, the gardens of
Ryshivana are a rare sight to behold. St. Mariam Baouardy the Patron of
Ryshivana intercedes for all those coming to Ryshivana for a spiritual
experience. Anyone desiring peace and harmony can come and enjoy the serene
atmosphere, Carmelite hospitality and the rich prayer experience.
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The
Feast of our Lady of Mount Carmel was solemnized at Ryshivana Ranipura on July
16, 2022 at 6.00 pm, for the first time in its 16 year history. Around 225 were
present including priests, religious and laity. Fr. Archibald Gonsalves OCD the
Superior and Director presided over the Mass at which Fr. Wilfred Rodrigues OCD
preached the homily explaining the origin of the Carmelite Order and the
devotion to our Lady of Mount Carmel as well as the growth and historical
development of the same and the Scapular Devotion. The OCDS community took
an active part in the arrangements as well as in the Liturgy. While refreshments
were served to all, around 150 invitees joined us for the dinner. Everyone had a
word of appreciation for the wonderful organization, though for the first time.
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Fr
Archibald Gonsalves was welcomed on 5th Sept 2020. On Sunday, 6th Sept at 7.00
am a community mass was celebrated. There after, there was the installation of
the new community at a formal meeting. Fr Alfred Menezes, the out going Superior
was thanked for his dedicated service. The other members are, Fr Alvito
Fernandes, Fr Wilfred Rodrigues, Fr Lancy Mendoca, Fr John Lobo.
Ryshivana,
17 March 2020: The eight months certificate course was successfully
completed on 17 March 2020 with the Solemn Eucharistic celebration. Rev. Fr.
Charles Serrao, OCD, the Provincial of the Discalced Carmelites of Karnataka-Goa
Province presided over the celebration. After the thanksgiving holy Mass, a
brief valedictory ceremony of conferring the certificates was held. Fr. Alfred
Menezes, the Director presented a brief report of the academic year 2019-2020
after which Fr. Provincial handed over the certificates to all the participants
who completed the renewal programme successfully. Fr. Joseph D’Souza proposed
the vote of thanks to everyone who made this event colourful and meaningful.
Every participant of either long term or short term renewal programme did
express that Ryshivana is indeed a centre for inner silence and contemplation.
Ryshivana,
14 March 2020: The eight months renewal programme ended with a two weeks
contemplative retreat preached by Fr. Alvito Fernandes from 1-14 of this month.
Along with our course participants there were other forty seven religious women,
priests and lay people who attended this retreat. The entire centre with eighty
members witnessed profound solitude during these days of contemplation. There
was ample time for every retreatant to invest at the feet of the Eucharistic
Lord in contemplative prayer. Many expressed their appreciation for this
Teresian contemplative retreat presented by Fr. Alvito with his personal
experience of the spiritual journey. The gorgeous beauty made everyone feel so
relaxed on the soothing lap of Mother Nature. 
Ryshivana,
08 March 2020: All the members of St. Vincent de Paul association of the
South Deanery of St. Joseph Vaz, spent half a day in praise and worship, input
session on the Word of God and the Holy Eucharist. Rev. Fr. Maxim, the professor
from St. Joseph’s seminary, Mangalore shared his reflections on being a disciple
of Jesus by being people of love and service. He also led the holy hour and
celebrated the Eucharist. As many as 130 members participated in it and
benefitted spiritually from this short and sweet spiritual renewal session. They
also got refreshed with the ecstatic beauty of nature at Ryshivana. The
programme ended with the lunch. 
Ryshivana,
29 Feb 2020: The participants of the eight months renewal programme had
a wonderful cultural evening with various inspiring one-act plays and other
meaningful, sweet but short items. The rich experience of living together as one
community, the erudite lectures on various topics, the prayer experience of the
intimacy with God and vibrant moments of entertainment in these eight months
were all encapsulated through the enacting. The culminating point was the
beautiful presentation of the interior castle of St. Teresa of Avila. Although
they would depart on 17 of March after the convocation, it was considered
fitting to celebrate our togetherness before the contemplative retreat from 1-14
March which would enable the sisters to focus better in the retreat. 
Ryshivana,
28 Feb 2020: One month contemplative retreat was organized in the month
of January 2020, preached by Rev. Fr. Alvito Fernandes. There were 45 members
for the first week and the second week, and 22 participants remained for the
entire month. The renewal programme participants and the retreatants kept the
centre full for whole month of January. In the month of November Carmelite
friars of Karnataka-Goa province did their annual retreat in Ryshivana. There
was a group of golden Jubilarians who belonged to UFS of Mangalore province for
four days seminar cum reflection on contemplative journey led by Fr. Alfred J.
Menezes. There were also a small group for the retreat preached by Fr. Joseph
D’Souza. 
Ryshivana,
27 January 2020: It was the birthday celebration of Fr. Alfred J.
Menezes, the Director of Ryshivana. The participants of the renewal programme
put up a fabulous cultural programme in appreciation of all the service rendered
by the director. It was really amazing to see the vibrant energy, the enthusiasm
and the creative ways in our sisters who performed elegantly on the stage. It
was an exhibition of their talents in action. Dr. Laveena Noronha the professor
of the week, Rev. Fr. Raymond Santanaz, our missionary from Tanzania, and Sr.
Joyet Fernandes HMR, who had made her final profession on 2 January, was
felicitated at the celebration. It was a great opportunity to pool all the
talents for building community at Ryshivana. 
Ryshivana,
20 Oct 2019: Rt. Rev. Dr. Peter Paul Saldanha, the bishop of the diocese
of Mangalore made his pastoral visitation to our Parish, Mary the Queen of the
Universe church, Ranipura. The Parishioners welcomed him with grandeur into the
church premises in the morning. During the Holy Eucharist he administered the
sacrament of Confirmation to the suitable candidates. Since it was his first
maiden visit to our parish after his Episcopal Ordination, he met all the
associations and heads of various groups. As part of his visitation protocol of
paying a fraternal visit to religious institutes, he came to Ryshivana along
with Fr. Santhosh the Parish priest and Deacon William and addressed our
participants and gave his apostolic blessing. The participants appreciated this
memorable meeting with our loving Bishop. 
Ryshivana:
30 September 2019: One month contemplative retreat was organized in the
month of September. Priests, religious sisters and a few lay persons
participated in this retreat. There were also participants for two weeks
contemplative retreat. This retreat was preached by Fr. Alvito Fernandes leading
them all into deeper intimacy with the Lord. Besides these, there were also
weekly retreats preached by Fr. Joseph D’Souza and Fr. Alfred Menezes. It is
encouraging to see these retreatants investing a lot of time at the feet of the
Lord in the Blessed Sacrament. 
Ryshivana,
21 Sept 2019: All study, prayer, reflection and no outing makes one
dull. A day for Mangaluru sightseeing was organized on Saturday the 21st of
September. All the participants of the long term renewal programme went to St.
Joseph’s Shrine, Mudipu, Nisargadham park at Pilicula, Vamanjoor, the Cisterna
Chapel of Rome in Aloysius college, the Infant Jesus Shrine at Bikarnakatte and
the New Mangalore Port beach in Panambur. The regional science center and the
planetarium with the Space age programme were the special attraction of the day.
The beautiful and pleasant weather along with the picnic mood in the sisters
gave us the pleasant experience of knowing a little more of the city of
Mangaluru. 
Ryshivana,
08 Sept 2019: The feast of the Nativity of Blessed Virgin Mary which is
called ‘Monthi Fest’ in Mangalore among Christians was celebrated with
solemnity. All the parishioners gathered on the terrace of Ryshivana for
blessing of the new corn and showering of flowers to Mother Mary as a sign of
love and devotion. Fr. Santhosh D’Souza the Parish Priest and Fr. Joseph D’Souza
OCD blessed the corn and proceeded towards the Church in procession for the
solemn celebration of the Eucharist in which the participants of Ryshivana also
joined in. It was a community day celebration for Ryshivana with a variety of
liturgical and cultural stuff by singing and performing the traditional onam
dance. ‘Banana leaf’ lunch with multiple vegetable delicacies was the
culmination of the celebration. It was a wonderful day for all in Ryshivana to
experience unity and fraternity in the diversity of 25 congregations. 
Ryshivana,
15 Aug 2019: As the entire nation celebrated the 73rd Independence day,
the participants of Ryshivana also paid their homage to our National flag. As
Sr. Solly Jacob SMI compeered the entire programme, Sr. Benedicta UFS delivered
the speech in which she invited everyone to work hand in hand to build a nation
of peace, justice, equality and fraternity among all people of diverse faith and
culture. Fr. Alfred J. Menezes the president of the programme hoisted the flag.
Although red alert was warned by meteorological department of possible heavy
rains and wind, the favourable weather made the flag fly high in the cloudy yet
gorgeous sky of Ryshivana over seeing the Netravati river and the Arabian sea.
They were proud moments for us to celebrate our Independence day with sobriety
and peace. 
Ryshivana,
01 August 2019: All roads led to Ryshivana on 31 July as the new
participants for the renewal programme arrived here. After three days of
orientation and recollection, the inauguration of the eight months renewal
programme was held on Sunday, 4 August at 6.30 pm with the Solemn concelebrated
Holy Eucharist. Altogether 46 Participants from 34 Congregations were present
for long and short term renewal programme. Rev. Fr. George Santhumayor OCD the
former Asst. Provincial presided over the Eucharist and in his homily emphasized
on the need of the experience of God in our religious life more than being
content with our ministry and apostolate. Carmelite Priests from our
neighbouring community and the presence of the religious sisters from our
neighbourhood added joy to the celebration. Fr. Alfred J. Menezes the Director,
appreciated and thanked all for their gracious presence and the course
participants for preparing a meaning liturgy. 
Ryshivana,
26 June 2019: The somatic-psycho-spiritual integration programme for
three weeks was held at ryshivana from 06 to 26 June. The fourth year theology
brothers from the Seminary of Allahabad, along with other religious women, three
of whom were from Bangladesh attended this programme. The topic “theology of the
body” was handled by Fr. Joseph D’souza, while the mind integration was taken by
Fr. Praveen D’Souza, and Fr. Alfred J. Menezes emphasized on the integration of
the spirit with mystical union. Along with this programme there were also
retreats preached in the centre. It was encouraging to have almost 55
participants both for retreat and programme. The cooled down weather with the
pre-monsoon showers, the lushy green surroundings with the Arabian and Netravati
river view, and the deep solitude gave an unique experience of God’s presence to
the participants. 
Ryshivana, 31 May 2019:
Relax and contemplate on the lap of Mother Nature.
Fascinated by the scenic beauty many priests, sisters, seminarians and lay
people inundated the centre either for one month retreat, a month’s renewal programme or for a week’s retreat. The first two weeks of the month of May
accommodated 85 participants and the following two weeks had 65 participants for
various courses and retreats. The one month contemplative retreat was preached
by Fr. Alvito Fernandes. The renewal programme had courses such as Psycho
spiritual maturity by Fr. Alwyn Sequeira, Mysticism and religious life by Fr.
Alfred Menezes, Spirituality of communion by Fr. Joy Francis and ending with a
retreat preached by Fr. Joseph D’Souza. Besides Fr. Terence Farias SJ was
leading an Ignatian one month retreat for Pune Ursuline tertians. Being true to
the Carmelite Charism the centre is really promoting Teresian Contemplation to
all. It is encouraging to see that many are realizing the need for deep
communion with God and thereby a conversion of life. 
Ryshivana,
30 April 2019: There has been an over whelming response to the summer
programme in the month of April at Ryshivana. The centre was full with eighty
participants of renewal programme for a month, the two weeks contemplative
retreat, and weekly retreat. There were brothers who came for the renewal
programme as a preparation for their final vows, others were preparing for their
silver jubilee and some others wanted a refreshers course. The contemplative
retreat that was preached by Fr. Alvito Fernanades was attended by almost fifty
religious sisters, brothers, priests and lay people. Fr. Praveen D’Souza, Fr.
Alfred J. Menezes, Fr.Alvito Fernandes were the resource persons for one month
renewal programme. Fr. Joseph D’Souza occupied yet another retreat group. It was
indeed heartening to see that many are seeking a quiet place like Ryshivana for
deeper God experience. 
Ryshivana,
16 March 2019: The Convocation of the eight months certificate course in
Spirituality for Women Religious was held on 16 March 2018 at Ryshivana. Rev.
Fr. Charles Serrao, the Provincial Superior of the Discalced Carmelites of
Karnataka-Goa Province presided over the Solemn Eucharistic celebration along
with the staff Priests of the Centre. The Provincial awarded the Certificates to
the participants of three semesters, two and one semester, a total of 55, who
had successfully completed their Spiritual renewal course with enthusiasm and
rigorous commitment. The Annual magazine with all the activities and
celebrations of the year was released by the President. Fr. Alfred J. Menezes
OCD, the Director of Ryshivana, read a brief report of the academic year
2018-19. In the evening there was a farewell programme organized by the sisters
as they were bidding goodbye to Ryshivana and to each other. It was a memorable
day for the institute. 
Ryshivana,
10 March 2019: Not only the religious and the priests who frequent to
savour the ecstatic beauty of nature in Ryshivana, the laity too desire to spend
some hours in the silent place like this one. All the SVP members of the South
Deanery spent half a day in worship, reflection on the Word of God, and the Holy
Eucharist. Fr. Maxim, the professor from St. Joseph’s seminary, Mangalore shared
his reflections on Service and conducted holy hour and celebrated the holy mass.
There was full participation of the members around 130 of them who benefitted
spiritually from this short and sweet spiritual renewal session. 
Ryshivana,
27 Jan 2019:The annual seminar in memory of Rev. Fr. Boniface Barracho
OCD was orgainzed by the institute on the topic “Holiness and Wholeness in
Consecrated life” on 27 January 2019. The Key note address was delivered by Sr.
Lillis BS, the Assistant Superior General of the congregation of Bethany
followed by Fr. Salvadore Fernandes, OFM Cap who dealt with the Scriptural
reflection on holiness. After the tea break Rev. Fr. Joe Mathias SJ spoke on the
modern challenges to growth in holiness. In the afternoon, Rev. Fr. Gregory
D’Souza OCD shed light on contemplation and sanctification. And the final
session was given by Most Rev. Dr. Peter Paul Saldanha, the Bishop of Mangalore
on the reflections from the Apostolic Exhortation: Gaudete et Exultate. 
Ryshivana:
04 January 2019: Conference of Religious of India under the leadership
of Rev. Fr. Joe Mannath SDB organized a sever day seminar for the superiors of
the Southern region from 29 December to 4 of January 2019. “Being a Religious
Superior today: the Essentials” was the title of the seminar. It was well
attended by 45 religious women who were mostly Superiors. Many resource persons,
namely, Sr. Regis SMI, Sr. Priya D’Mello BS, Fr. Dionysius Vas SJ, Fr. Anton
Paul and Fr. Joe Mannath animated the sessions on various topics. Handling
negative emotions, Canon law for Superiors, Financial management, women in
Leadership, Counselling Skills, Celibacy and many other topics were dealt with.
The scenic beauty of Ryshivana was an added attraction for the participants of
the seminar. The seminar was well appreciated by all the participants. 
of
Providence came to taste and experience the incredible love of the Father in the
sounding solitude ambience of Ryshivana. Under the guidance and the inspiration
of the Holy Spirit, Rev. Fr. Alfred J. Menezes OCD shared a few reflections with
the retreatants hoping that they would personally have a deep experience of
God’s love. The six days of prayer and reflection made them realize that love
can be repaid by love alone by changing our human ways into the ways of God. It
was a unique experience for these retreatants here at Ryshivana. There were also
other retreats preached by Rev. Fr. Joseph D’Souza OCD and Fr. Alvito in the
month of October and November. It is delightful to see many religious priests
and nuns and lay people coming to spend time in solitude. 
Ryshivana,
21 Oct 2018: The desire to experience the love of God in his beautiful
creation brought the Bishop of Shimoga Rt. Rev. Dr. Francis Serrao and his
thirty six priests of the Diocese to spend five days in prayer and reflection in
Ryshivana from 7 – 13 October 2018. Rev. Fr. Derrick OFMCap was the resource
person who helped them with his reflections to deepen their commitment to the
Lord in their pastoral service to God’s people. As all who enter this holy and
quiet place are led into inner silence and contemplation so also the retreatans
maintained deep solitude and enjoyed God’s communication through his gorgeous
creation displayed at the merging of Netravati river into Arabian sea. 
Ryshivana,
29 Sept 2018: All the participants of the spirituality course went for a day’s
outing around Mangaluru. St. Joseph’s Vaz shrine at Mudipu, the Science Park and
zoo at Pilicula, Vamanjoor, the Infant Jesus Shrine at Bikarnakatte, St.
Aloysius College Chapel, and the beach at Someshwar were the places visited. The
community at St. Joseph’s Monastery gave a cordial welcome into their dining
hall and extended a warm Carmelite fraternity with sharing the meal with us. It
was a day of being together and enjoying the Ryshivana spirit of love and
sharing. Since for all of them it was the first opportunity to savor the beauty
of the South Canara, they all appreciated the history and its culture. 
Ryshivana,
23 September 2018: The Catholic Sabha of Mangalore South Deanery organized a
spiritual animation programme for all its members on the 23rd September at
Ryshivana. Around ninety members of the Catholic Sabha units from ten parishes
of the Mangalore South deanery attended the programme. Fr. Boniface Pinto, the
professor at St. Joseph’s seminary was the resource person who shared his
reflection on the topic, Service, Sacrifice and Unity which is the motto of the
Catholic Sabha organization. Mr. Arun Monthiero the President of the Deanery
along with the Secretary Mr Alwyn steered the whole animation. 
Ryshivana,
08 September 2018: On the feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary,
all the faithful from our Parish of Our Lady of the Universal Church, Ranipura,
gathered on the terrace of Ryshivana for the blessing of the new corn and
showering of flowers to Infant Mary and thereafter proceeded to the parish in
procession for the solemn Eucharistic celebration. Rev. Fr. Santhosh, the Parish
priest led the ceremony. All the sisters of the spirituality course actively
participated in the liturgy of the day with the parishioners. For many it was a
witnessing of the South Canara tradition of celebration of Monthi Fest. 
Ryshivana,
6 Sept 2018: The Bishop Elect of the Diocese of Mangalore, Most Rev. Dr.
Peter Paul Saldanha spent eight days in contemplative retreat in preparation for
his Episcopal Ordination scheduled for 15 of September 2018 at the Cathedral
grounds, Mangalore. All at Ryshivana were edified by his spirit of prayer and
fasting during his retreat days. We had the privilege of felicitating him and
wishing him all the very best in his great responsibility of shepherding the
diocese. Indeed we all wanted to make the best of the opportunity to pose for a
photograph with the new Bishop of Mangalore. It was a big group along with the
retreatants. 
Ryshivana,
31 August 2018: As the centre reopened for the long and short term
certificate courses, it also simultaneously commenced to hold retreats every
week. The first retreat was preached by Fr. Pius James D’Souza OCD from 5 to 11
August, attended by many religious women from various congregations. Fr. Joseph
D’Souza began his journey with the retreatants in the following week. The
gorgeous beauty of the Arabic Ocean welcoming the torrents of waters from river
Netravati was a scene enough to set the soul in thirst for the Author of beauty.
The participants cherished every bit of their experience in Ryshivana. 
Ryshivana,
15 August 2018: The Independence day was celebrated with all enthusiasm and
patriotic pride at Ryshivana by our dear participants of the Spirituality
course. The retreatants also joined to honour the flag. Sr. Rebecca Rodrigues
SRA compeered the whole programme and gave a thought provoking speech on our
country’s struggle for Independence by our freedom fighters. Sr. Alphonsa
Poovakkot SHSP made a prayer for our country. Fr. Alfred J. Menezes the
Director, hoisted the flag and Fr. Alvito Fernandes the dean, gave a brief and
meaningful message, highlighting the need of freedom from forces within. As the
song Ye mere vathan ke logo...was being sung the sisters enacted the scene of
mourning over the heroic and sacrificial death of soldiers at the borders. 
Ryshivana,
1 August 2018: On the 31st of July most of the participants arrived in
Ryshivana for the eight month certificate course in spirituality. After giving
the right orientation and motivation, a day of recollection was observed. The
solemn inauguration of the course was held on the 5th of August at 6.30 pm. Most
Rev. Dr. Aloysius Paul D’Souza the Bishop of Mangalore, Rev. Fr. Charles Serrao,
OCD the Provincial of KG Province of Discalced Carmelites, Fr. Pius James
D’Souza the first Councillor in-charge of spirituality and many other
concelebrants participated in the inaugural Holy Eucharist. 43 sisters attending
the course made the celebration vibrant and meaningful. Our dear Bishop was
felicitated and thanked for the 22 years of his yeomen service to the Diocese
and for his special benevolence to the Carmelites in the diocese. The whole
celebration was a memorable one. It ended with the agape meal. 
Ryshivana June 2018:
At the request of Rev. Fr. Ronald Tellis, the Rector of St.
Joseph’s seminary, Allahabad, Ryshivana organized a special programme called
‘Body-mind-spirit integration’ from the Christian point of view. It was a three
week programme consisting of topics such as theology of the body by Fr. Joseph
D’Souza, the psychology of mind management by Fr. Dr. Praveen D’Souza and
Integration of body and mind through the Spirit by Fr. Dr. Alfred J. Menezes,
the Director of Ryshivana. Since it was not restricted to seminarians alone we
had religious priests and nuns attending this course. We also had retreat groups
cherishing the pre-monsoon rains along with the spiritual manna at Ryshivana.
Ryshivana,
31 May 2018: The month of May, for most religious who are working in schools, is
a month that would give them time to breathe and relax. All four weeks of the
month witnessed about sixty five to seventy participants. Psycho spiritual
maturity by Fr. Arun Lobo, Consecrated life and Mysticism by Fr. Alfred Menezes,
Covenantal love in the Bible by Fr. Pius D’Souza and Contemplative retreat by
Fr. Alvito Fernandes were the topics for this month. Silver Jubilarians, priests
and religious in need of renewal benefitted from these courses. Besides there
were also good number of retreatants in the month of May. The Deacons from the
Seminary of St. Joseph, Mangalore under the direction of Fr. Henry CSSR also did
their retreat in Ryshivana. 
Ryshivana, 30 April 2018: Come summer Ryshivana gets flooded with Jubilarians,
tertians, a month’s, two weeks and weekly contemplative retreatants. It is
heartening to see many religious longing for silent moments that would lead them
to a genuine contemplative experience of the love of God. Among many
participants for a month’s renewal course, we had Montfort and O.Carm brothers
preparing for their solemn vows. Frs. Praveen, Pius, Alfred, Alvito, Joseph were
the professors and preachers for this month of April. Ryshivana a centre for
inner silence and contemplation is indeed a haven for seekers of the love of
God.
This
was the day in which the eight month certificate course, begun on the first of
August 2017 was concluded with the Solemn Thanksgiving Eucharist and conferring
of certificates to those who completed their course in Spirituality. Very Rev.
Fr. Charles Serrao OCD, the Provincial of Karnataka –Goa, presided over the
Eucharistic celebration along with the concelebrants from the institute. All
those who had successfully attended either eight months or six or three months
were given the certificates. The domestic staff, Mrs. Prameela, Ms. Theresa, Ms
Bina, Ms. Mina – the Kitchen staff; Mr. Jinu, the maintenance in-charge; Mr.
Denis, Mr. Milan the gardeners and Ms. Renita the receptionist were felicitated
for their selfless service to the Institute. The participants also bid farewell
to one another by a short cultural programme. 
Rev.
Fr. Boniface Barracho OCD memorial seminar was organized in collaboration with
the Chair of Christianity at Ryshivana on the theme “New Age movements and
Christian Spirituality” on 18 February 2018. It was well attended by religious
women, priests and lay people. Rev. Fr. Dr. J. B. Saldhana, the HoD of the
department of the Chair of Christianity was the president of the day. The
seminar began at 9.15 am with an invocation hymn to the Lord. Fr. Dr. Alfred J.
Menezes, the Director of Ryshivana extended a warm welcome to the invitees and
guests of honor. Rev. Fr. Joseph D’Souza OCD, gave the key note address. In the
first session Rev. Fr. Dr. Gregory D’Souza OCD presented a paper on “New Age
phenomenon and Christian Mysticism.” 
In
the first week of January many lay people, priests and religious women attended
one month contemplative retreat preached by Rev. Fr. Alvito Fernandes OCD.
Although they expressed their apprehension initially regarding how they are
going to spend time in solitude, as the days rolled by, they themselves were
surprised at their ability and poise with which they sat at the feet of the
Master. Fr. Alfred preached a retreat to another small group of retreatants in
the first week of February. We hope and we pray they continue experiencing the
immense love of the Father and inspire many to attend these kinds of
contemplative retreats. 
Ryshivana,
Dec 28, 2017 : The third group of Bethany sisters from the Southern Province
came to Ryshivana for a contemplative retreat preached by Fr. Alvito Fernandes
in the month of October. All of them, forty in number, without exception,
enjoyed this retreat of such great solitude and profound reflections. They
expressed their joy of being here at the centre. There were many other groups in
the months of November and mid-December who participated in the retreats
preached by Fr. Joseph D’Souza and Fr. Alfred Menezes. It was very encouraging
to see how each participant was longing to invest time at the feet of the
Master- Jesus for longer duration. All leave the portals of Ryshivana with a
desire for contemplation – experiencing the love of the Father. 
Ryshivana,
Sept 30, 2017: Fr. Joseph D’Souza and Fr. Alvito Fernandes preached
contemplative retreats to various groups in the month of September. The tertians
of the congregation of the Daughters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus were lead into
deep prayer as a preparation for their final profession by Fr. Joseph. The
golden Jubilararians of the congregation of FSMA made a three week retreat under
the renowned preacher Fr. Alvito. The laity also participated in a two week
growth in prayer retreat by the same preacher. The FCC sisters did a week’s
retreat as a preparation for their silver Jubilee which was preached by Fr.
Joseph.
Ryshivana,
Sept 24, 2017: The entire community of sisters along with the residential and
domestic staff had a day’s outing. For many sisters it’s their first visit to
the city of Mangalore. The shrine of St. Joseph Vaz at Mudipu, St. Aloysius
College Chapel, the Pilikula Nisarga Dham, Someshwar beach, the Infant Jesus
Shrine at Bikarnatte and many other places of interest were visited. As the
weather was cloudy and rainy at times, the picnickers felt very pleasant while
walking around. It was a memorable day for all. Every one experienced a feeling
of fraternity and unity. They thanked the Ryshivana staff for arranging this
outing. 
Ryshivana,
Sept 9, 2017: The long and short term course participants celebrated the
community day at Ryshivana on Sunday, 9 September. The traditional Monti fest
was fused with traditional Onam dance performed by the sisters. The varieties of
delicious vegetable dishes along with other mouth watering delicacies were
served at table thanks to the expert chefs at Ryshivana kitchen. It was indeed a
feast of unity and fraternity.
Ryshivana,
Sept 8: The feast of Monti Fest was celebrated with solemnity at the parish of
Our Lady-the Universal Queen, Ranipura. Fr. Santhosh, the parish priest blessed
the new corn and the showering of flowers took place at Ryshivana grounds after
which the statue infant Mary was taken in procession to the Parish Church. Fr.
Alfred, the Director of Ryshivana was the main celebrant at the Holy Eucharist.
It was a new experience for the course participants of Ryshivana as this Monthi
fest is a unique celebration for the Catholics of Canara region of Karnataka.
Ryshivana,
Sept 1-9: Fr. Alvito Fernandes OCD preached a contemplative retreat for the
Bethany sisters of the Southern Province from September 1 to 9. Since all the
members of the province would attend this retreat at Ryshivana, fifty five of
them made it to the first batch. The course participants with the retreatants
made the house full, yet there was such deep silence, no one would ever know it.
Ryshivana is indeed a centre for inner silence and Contemplation. We were happy
to have Sr. Santhosh Maria, the provincial with us. 
Mangaluru,
August 29: All roads from Karnataka, Goa, Maharastra and Gujarat led to
Ryshivana as the Carmelite friars of the KG Province gathered here from 21st to
26th of August 2017, for their annual retreat. It was preached by Most Rev. Dr.
Ignatius D’Souza, the Bishop of Bareilly. The participants, thirty three of
them, were appreciative of the deep insights shared by the preacher on the theme
“the prophetic-mystical call of the Carmelites”. The natural scenic beauty of
the place helped them to encounter the beauty of God in creation. The presence
of so many friars spending lot of time with the Lord and praying for all of us
was indeed a great moment. 
Ryshivana,
Aug 19: Fr. Alvito Fernandes OCD preached a two weeks contemplative retreat from
Aug 6-19. It was attended by women religious, priests and lay persons. It was
encouraging to see the participants investing time at the feet of the Lord in
contemplative prayer in the serene atmosphere of resounding solitude and silent
music. Fr. Joseph D’Souza OCD led another young group of retreatants from Aug 13
-19. Refreshed, challenged and strengthened by the reflections and personal
prayer, they moved on appreciating the time they spent in Ryshivana.
Mangaluru,
Aug 15: The Independence was celebrated in Ryshivana by the participants of long
term renewal course in spirituality and the retreatants. Fr. Alfred J. Menezes,
the director was the chief guest who hoisted the National flag. In his
presidential address he invited every citizen to ask not what the country can do
for us but what we can do for our country. Sr. Greeta UMI, in her speech, lauded
the country for its political, economic, social, medical, and telecommunication
development over the past seventy years. Sr. Helen, BS led the march fast and
compeered the programme.
The
eight months Certificate Course in Spirituality for Women Religious from 1st
August 2017 to 17th March 2018, along with the short term Renewal programmes,
was formally inaugurated at Ryshivana on 1st August 2017 at 6.00 p.m with the
Holy Eucharist. Rev. Fr. Pius James OCD, the first Councilor and former Director
of Ryshivana was the main celebrant at the Eucharist. There were a host of
Carmelite friars, other religious and diocesan priests that also concelebrated
at the Eucharist. In his homily, Fr. Pius James stressed that spiritual growth
should be the main aim of the participants and not to be content with mere pious
religious practices. Fr. Alfred J. Menezes OCD, the present Director thanked all
those present and invited all for a sumptuous dinner.
Mangaluru
Jul 23: The 22nd Annual Assembly of Karnataka Regional Conference of
Religious (KRCR) was held under the theme 'Colloboration: A Vision
received, A Mission Shared', at Ranipura from July 21-23, 2017. Rt. Rev.
Dr. Aloysious Paul D'Souza, Bishop of Mangaluru diocese, addressing the
gathering said, "Service from the Christian community is very precious.
The service of Christian people is incomplete without service in
education and care centers." During his presidential address, chancellor
of Yenapoya University, Yenepoya Abdulla Kunhi said, "The Christian
community and their bishops are always at the forefront of nourishing
the deprived and wiping tears of the people who are troubled by the
society."
It
was another feather on the cap of Ryshivana as the secular members of
Carmelite (OCDS) chose Ryshivana as the venue for their 2 days get
together for Konkani speaking members. It is held on 25-26 of March. The
get together was inaugurated with the Eucharistic celebration which was
presided over by Rev. Fr. Charles Serrao, Provincial Superior. Fr.
Wilfred Rodrigues, Provincial Delegate for OCDS preached a meaningful
homily. Then the seminar went on for two days with an input session,
games, recreation, sharing by each unit etc. there were all together 120
members from Mira-road unit, Mangalore unit, Kushalnagar unit, Honnavar
unit, Koteshwar unit and Raipura unit. Provincial for OCDS Mrs Jane, Fr.
Sylvestre D’Souza OCD, Directors from Respective Unit were present. 
The
10th convocation ceremony of the academic year was held on March 18. The
Holy Eucharist was presided over by Rev. Fr. Joseph Martis, Rector of
St. Joseph’s Seminary, Mangalore. In his homily he said; as the Lord
sent his disciples to proclaim the Good news and make disciples for him,
so also the Ryshivana has prepared you to be witnesses to the lord in
the challenging world. Then he invited all the course participants to
take up the challenge to make a better world. Then Rev Fr. Sylvestre
D’Souza OCD, Councilor in-charge of spirituality addressed the gathering
and distributed the certificates for the course participants. Fr. Joseph
Martis released the Ryshivana annual magazine. Thus the whole programme
came to an end with the sumptuous dinner. 
The
Annual seminar in Ryshivana in memory of Rev. Fr. Boniface Barracho OCD
was organized on 4th February 2017 in collaboration with the Chair in
Christianity, Mangalore University. The theme of the seminar was: St.
Elizabeth of the Trinity - A Prophet of Divine Indwelling. The inaugural
ceremony was presided by Rev. Dr. Melwyn D’Souza Ofm. Cap (President of
CRI, Mangaluru) and the keynote address was given by Rev. Sr. Rose Agnes
AC (Vice Provincial of the Karnataka Province of the AC). The guest of
honour was Sr. Jacintha OCD from the cloistered Carmel of Mangalore
whose presence reminded us of the Saint of Dijon (Elizabeth of the
Trinity) and it gave added flavor to the seminar. Later, the following
books were released “St. Elizabeth of Trinity”, “St. Teresa of Avila”
and “Mystical Wisdom”.
It
was a great relaxing moment for all the course participants and fathers
of Ryshivana as we went to Goa for four days. The places that were
visited was Venerable Fr. Agnelo’s tomb (Pilar fathers), Boa-vista, Old-Goa
Bom Jesus Basilica and cathedral, St. Augustine’s monastery, weeping
cross, Aguado Port, Campal park, St. Joseph Vaz Shrine Sancole, beaches
like colva, calangutte, miramaar. It was indeed great moment where all
without the age barrier became young at heart and mind by dancing,
singing and swimming.
On
the occasion of Christmas celebrations, Ryshivana organized on 23rd of
December, 2016, an inter-religious meet for its neighbours, especially
the representatives from the political, social and religious spheres.
Among the guests present were the president and the vice-president of
Munnur (local) panchayat, members of the panchayat (belonging to
different religions), BDO and the office staff and all those involved in
the social uplifting of the society. The guests of honour were the
Parish priest- Fr. Santhosh, Yoga guru Mr. V. L. Rego and the local MLA,
Mr. U.T. Khader. 
A
long awaited day – a day of celebration, a day of thanksgiving, a day of
joy dawned on 16th of December of going home began in the evening with a
depiction of the first coming of Jesus with enactment. To enter into the
celebration mood the whole house was cleansed and decorated. A cultural
evening brought out by the singing of Christmas carols in various
languages. The colorful evening made richer with dances and games. We
had the joy of sharing Christmas sweets (kuswar) and revealing our
Christmas friend which brought about hilarious laughter. To crown it all
we had a sumptuous agape. 
The
renewal centre, Ryshivana was renewed and put forth a new look with the
painting and renovation. December 6 marked a meaningful celebration to
all of us. Ryshivana which lies in the banks of river Nethravathi which
in turn gives ‘nethra’ – sight and insight to the people across India
and outside is dedicated under the patronage of Carmelite saint St. Mary
of Jesus Crucified who is popularly known as Mariam Baouardy. The
portrait of the same saint was blessed and installed by Rt. Rev.
Aloysius P. D’Souza, Bishop of Mangalore. Then the house was blessed by
the bishop. As the colors of the day were turning into crimson red there
was Eucharistic celebration. 
It was a great enriching moment at Ryshivana as the Carmelite friars
gathered here from 29th of August to 2nd of September 2016, for their
annual retreat. It was preached by Rev. Dr. Ivel J. Mendanha C.Ss.R, the
Provincial of the Vice-Province of Majella. All the 37 participants
appreciated the rich reflections offered by the preacher and the natural
scenic beauty of the place. It was indeed great moment for us when so
many friars spending lot of time with Lord and praying for all of us.
The
eight month spiritual- renewal course at Ryshivana was begun with the
inaugural mass at 6:30 pm on August 1, 2016 presided over by Rev. Fr.
Dynasius, Rector of Aloysius Institutions. In his homily commenting on
the day’s gospel (Mt 14: 1-12) he spoke of the hunger of the heart which
could be satisfied only with the intimacy with Jesus. The course was
formally inaugurated by V. Rev Sr. Susheela A.C., Mother General of
Apostolic Carmel. She said that in order to satisfy the hunger of the
world we should nourish the delicious banquet that has been set for the
eight months course. Rev. Fr. Pius James D’Souza OCD, Director of the
Ryshivana institute welcomed the new participants and thanked all for
their whole-hearted cooperation. 
In
the months of April- May June, 2016 Ryshivana conducted special
programmes for various sections of people.
A
month long programme for the Tertians (i.e., those who are preparing for
their final vows) was conducted in Ryshivana from 1-30 May. It was
attended by the both men and women religious. The brothers were from the
OMI and the Guanelian congregations. The sisters were from the
congregations of Sisters of St. Elizabeth, Ursulines (OSU), Adoration
Sisters (ASC) and the Good News Sisters. Personal attention was given to
each participant particularly with the course on psycho-spiritual
maturity. This course was conducted by Dr. Fr. Praveen D’Souza, who is
the director of the Emmaus Counselling Centre at Mapusa, Goa. The
teritans concluded their programme with one day outing (“Mangalore
Darshan”) organized by the Institute.
