Sunday, May 14, 2017

34th Sumedha Sadhana - A Psychospiritual Wholeness Journey - Concludes

The 34th edition of Sumedha Sadhana (A Psychospiritual Wholeness Journey) concluded at Sumedha Centre, Jeolikote today (May 14,2017). There were 15 participants (11 women and 4 men) from eight Indian States and one from Thailand. This 9-week residential programme began on March 13.


Sumedha Sadhana is an inner journey in quest of greater healing and wholeness. Participants begin from where they are, looking at what is happening on their spiritual journey. They then move on to explore the psychological dynamics that affect their spirituality and integrate them in healthier ways to create more satisfying life patterns and make their ministry/professional work more fulfilling and fruitful.


There were 6 major modules in this edition of Sumedha Sadhana: Psychological Dynamics on the Spiritual journey (by Dr. Jose Parappully), Jungian Perspectives on Personality and Spirituality (by Dr. Ajoy Fernandes), Feminist and Women’s Spiritualities (by Dr. Shalini Mulackal), Yoga and Cosmic Spirituality (by Alba Rodrigues), Group Therapy (by Dr. Edison Fernandes & Dr. Jose Parappully) and Integration Retreat (by Dr. Jose Parappully).


Participants expressed great satisfaction at the quality and usefulness of the programme. Some comments:

“The programme as a whole, and the module facilitators were excellent. Happy and satisfied with everything.”

“A beautiful blend of psychology and spirituality. Well planned, well-organized and well-executed.”

“I had come here confused, disappointed. Sumedha has given me a real push to go ahead with enthusiasm.”


 “Received to the full what I needed and wanted.”

“A deep experience of God was the highlight of my stay at Sumedha.”

“I was challenged to make a real change.”

“What is most memorable is the experience of forgiveness and reconciliation I was able to extend to someone.”



“I came here quite frustrated. I gained hope and courage. The programme deepened my spirituality. I return enriched.”

 “I found a way back to God, to the centrality of Christ in my life.”

“Every bit of the programme helped me. It was a journey from brokenness to wholeness.”


“Sumedha brought a radical change in my lifestyle. I go back with a better image of myself.”
“I gained a more positive attitude toward life.”

“I go back with a renewed focus on Jesus of Nazareth.”

 “Every event had a meaning for my life. I go back renewed, with fresh energy.”


“The programme as a whole and the calm and beautiful surroundings helped me realize ‘Life is beautiful.”

“Welcome and hospitality was excellent. Food was nourishing and delicious. Very satisfied. Staff very kind and helpful, service with a smile”


The programme was very experiential, following a 4-fold methodology of Input, Introspection, Interaction and intercession. 


There was enough time for personal reflection, meditation and prayer. Friday evenings and Saturday mornings were spent in quiet reflection, giving time for all that had been churned up during the week to settle down and integrate.

Creative liturgies integrated the days experiences and helped to deepen them.



There was also time for relaxation- recreation, movies, picnic and outings. Saturday afternoons and whole of Sunday were left free for participants to organize their time the way they liked.


Somatic meditation and/or yoga in the mornings contributed to psycho-biological well-being.


The next Sumedha Sadhana is from June 1 to August 2, 2017. Registration is open. Contact sumedhacentre@gmail.com


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