Carmel Preran: For
Daily Reflections on the Word of God and Daily
Prayers
Living Flame: For
Carmelite Spirituality & Catholic Theology
THE PRECAUTIONS
(St. John of the Cross)
Dear
Friends,
The Precautions of St. John of the Cross are a precious
treasure for those who wish to live an authentic
Christian life and attain perfection of Christian
charity within a short period of time. When reading the
Precautions, we may feel they are hard and too tough to
practice, but the intention of St. John of the Cross was
to help the aspirants to experience God in their daily
life and be united with Him on a daily basis regardless
of the difficulties involved. These are very practical
recommendations and are helpful for spiritual direction
and discernment. Here I have prepared a short commentary
on these precautions, which I presume will be useful for
spiritual reading and spiritual growth. These
reflections will be uploaded on the Carmelite Website of
our Province shortly.
Solo
Dios Basta! “Those
who join the Carmelite Order are not lost to their
near and dear ones, but have been won for them,
because it is our vocation to intercede to God for
everyone.” These words of St Edith Stein came true
once again when 5 brothers in our province committed
themselves wholeheartedly to the Discalced Carmelite
Order for life through the pronouncement of the vows
of Chastity, Poverty and Obedience. The brothers who
professed their vows on 20th May 2022 are Br. Pranam
Fernandes OCD, (Fermai), Br. Siltan Noronha OCD, (Mudkani,
Karwar), Br. Anthony Stephen OCD (Vijayanagar,
Bangalore) Br. Clifford Rodrigues OCD (Gurpur), Br.
Santosh Menezes OCD (Elliar-Padavu). These brothers
had made their First Profession on 14th December
2015, and as the tradition in the Religious Order
is, they had been renewing the vows year after year.
After seven years of deep discernment and 45 days of
intense preparation during the second novitiate at
Calicut, Kerala they made the ultimate choice for
Carmelite way of life, thus embracing the vows for
life.
For
they are the royal priesthood, God’s chosen
possession!
If the power of the living God has to be witnessed
on this earth, one only needs to take a look at the
hands of a priest. It is in his hands the
unfathomable
becomes manifest! The richness of the Catholic
Church is
not
counted by the wealth it possesses or the mighty
Cathedrals it builds. Rather it is seen in its
priests who are the living masterpieces of God! The
KG Province enriched itself further when the Lord
chose two able men of the Order and granted them a
place in His priesthood. They are Fr Ronald Minin
Furtado and Fr Jason Francis Coutinho. The red
lettered day was 11th May for Fr Ronald and 12th
May for Fr Jason. The ordination ceremony of Fr
Ronald who chose the theme ‘Witness to love,
faithful in service’ took place at his native parish Allanki, Honnavar during the solemn Eucharistic
celebration presided by His Excellency Most Rev.
Derek Fernandes, the Bishop of Belgaum at 10:00 AM
along with 44 concelebrants. The joy of ordination
was exhibited so richly that even the rains couldn’t
dampen the smiles and glee of the people gathered
there. The entire parish took the initiative of
animating the liturgy of the Ordination right from
the choir up to the altar service. The ordinando was
vested in priestly garments after the ceremony by
the Parish priest. After the Ordination, a small
felicitation was organized wherein Fr Juze D’Souza
compered the event.
“My
Jesus my Love, I resolve to be yours” The
first religious profession of five of our novices
was celebrated on the first of May 2022 at Tapovana,
the novitiate house of our province. The novices
made their simple profession in the hands of Rev.
Fr. George Santhumayor, the Provincial Superior. The
celebration was solemnized by as many as twenty
Carmelite priests who concelebrated with the
Provincial. The parents and the family members of
the novices along with other friends and benefactors
witnessed their simple yet grand celebration of the
profession. The Eucharistic celebration commenced at
10.30 am with the introduction by Fr. Vishan Vinu
Monis who was the master of ceremony of the entire
liturgical celebration. Fr. Provincial inspired the
novices and all the faithful gathered with his words
of wisdom during the homily. “My Jesus my Love, I
resolve to be yours” was the theme chosen by the
novices for their Profession. “World is too
alluring, especially in this twenty-first century,
but these young brave men have resolved to be the
Lord’s” said the Provincial and congratulated these
five young energetic novices.
Silver
Jubilee of the Priestly Ordination “My
soul glorifies the Lord '' – exclaimed the silver
jubilarians Frs. Jerald D’Souza and Cyprian
Fernandes as they thanked the Lord for His abounding
blessings on them for the past 25 years as priests
in Carmel. The community of Sadbhavana along with
the friars of Bengaluru region joined the
jubilarians in praising the Lord through the
Eucharistic banquet celebrated on 28th April 2022 at
6-30 pm. The Mass was presided by Fr Jerald D’Souza,
the birthday boy and the jubilarian. Fr Wilfred
Frank preached an inspiring homily inviting all to
taste the heavenly bread by detaching oneself from
the earthly things. The liturgy was animated by Fr
Clifford D’Souza. After the mass, all gathered at
the quadrangle which was decorated by flowers and
lights. Fr Prakash D’Cunha compered the programme
and Fr George Santhumayor, Provincial raised the
toast acknowledging the silent contributions of the
jubilarians to the Province. The celebratory dinner
was prepared by the famous chef of the Province Fr
Nelson Pinto. Frs. Rathan Almeida and Rudolph Pinto
joined the celebration along with the brother of Fr
Jerry from Bangalore. We thank God for these
jubilarians and also remember their companions Frs.
Wilfred Pais and Vincent D’Souza who are working in
Tanzania and Canada respectively. May God bless
their priestly vocation and enable them to march
forward with renewed vigour and enthusiasm.
Blessing
of a Grotto @ Hegde Nagar The
solemn blessing and Inauguration of a grotto of our
Blessed Mother Mary at St. Mary’s church, Hegde
Nagar was done by Rev. Fr George Santhumayor,
Provincial Superior on Easter Sunday 17 April 2022.
He officiated the Easter mass at 7-00 am and he
preached an inspiring homily on the mystery of
Jesus’ resurrection after which he inaugurated and
blessed the grotto which was built in honour of
Mother Mary. Fr Provincial invited the faithful to
pray the Rosary and to have a special devotion to
our heavenly Mother. Fr. Boniface D’ Souza, Parish
Priest; Frs. Jovel Oliver, Adarsh Rodrigues and
Vinod Lobo were present for the inauguration of the
grotto. More than three hundred people witnessed the
blessing of the grotto. The parish is thankful to
the donor who helped to build this beautiful grotto.
After the inauguration snacks were distributed to
all. May this grotto become a source of inspiration
to all to inculcate true devotion in the lives of
the faithful towards our Heavenly Mother.
CARMELITE
Fathers distribute Scholarship to the children of
visually impaired parents Bengaluru,
April 25: Dhyana Jyothi Trust, a Carmelite NGO,
distributed scholarships to the children of
differently abled parents under the banner 'Carmel
Vision for Future'. Children of thirty visually
impaired parents were provided scholarships in
Bengaluru on Monday April 25. This year around Rs 6
lakhs are given in scolraships. Addressing the
audience, Fr Vijay D'Costa, OCD a Doctoral Research
Student from Chirst Universtiy said, “Education to
the children especially to the parents of blind is a
Carmelite venture. Though the parents are blind,
they have a great desire to brighten the lives of
their children. Carmelite priests have taken up this
unique initiative with the help of the donors and
benefactors.” Nelly Prichardo, coordinator of
‘Carmel Vision for Future’ said, “Parents are not
only blind, they are also poor. Hence, they cannot
afford to educate their children. On the contrary,
children are highly talented and fare very well in
their studies. Hence, we feel it is our
responsibility to lend them a helping hand.”
“Stay
with us, Lord” “Emmaus
Wellness Centre” which was inaugurated in the month
of January, has now an Oratory! Most Rev. Filipe
Neri Ferrao, the Archbishop of Goa and Daman, issued
a decree on the 15th of March, 2022 and delegated
our Provincial, Rev. Fr. George Santhumayor to
preside over the rite of blessing. During the Mass
which was celebrated on 4th of April, our Provincial
blessed the Chapel and new Altar. He gave an
insightful homily based on the journey of the two
disciples to Emmaus. After Holy Communion, the
Blessed Sacrament was taken in procession and then
placed in the tabernacle followed by silent
adoration. At the end, the decree of the Archbishop
was read by Fr. Ronald S. D’Souza. The minutes were
signed by some representatives. Fr. Praveen D’Souza,
the Director of “Emmaus Wellness Centre” explained
the rites and animated the liturgy, while our
aspirants led the singing. Fr. Ivo Dias, the
Superior, proposed the vote of thanks. The friars
and postulants from Carmelite Monastery, Margao,
joined the community of Mapusa. Three Pilar fathers,
Religious sisters from the neighbouring communities
and few lay faithful were also present. Dinner was
served for all after the blessing ceremony.
Fr
Wilfred Pais celebrates Silver Jubilee March
27th 2022 was a rejoicing Sunday for the entire
Vicariate of Tanzania as it celebrated the Silver
Jubilee of Sacerdotal Ordination of Rev. Fr. Wilfred
Pais. The Concelebrated Eucharistic was at 9 am at
Kihonda Parish. All the Vicariate friars except one
were present. The famous preacher Rev. Fr. Faustine
Kamugisha, priest of Bukoba preached a meaningful
homily. Good number of nuns and faithful were
present, even from different parishes where we
serve. The spiritual celebration was followed by a
short felicitation and agape. We congratulate Fr
Wilfred Pais and accompany him through our prayers
in his priestly ministry.
Lenten
Retreat at Matadakeri, Honnavar The
Carmelite friars of Matadakeri, Honnavar organized
two days of Lenten Spiritual retreat for all the
faithful of the diocese of Karwar from 18-19 March
2022. Fr. Rovel D’Souza OCD, Fr. Roshan Monteiro OCD,
Fr. Juze D’Souza OCD, and Br. Prakash D’Souza from
Bandra and his team Preached the retreat. On the
first day 18th March, there were around four
thousand people. And the second five thousand people
participated and benefited spiritually from this
retreat. All the faithful were given meals on both
the days. Frs. Rovel and Roshan gave meaningful
reflections and Fr. Juze kept the people active
through praise and worship and Br. Prakash and his
team conducted the graceful adoration.Many diocesan
priests came to render their helping hand during the
retreat.
CONVOCATION
AT RYSHIVANA The
annual convocation programme of “Ryshivana: A centre
for inner silence and contemplation,” was held on 14
March 2022 at 6.00 p.m. Very Rev Fr. George
Santhumayor, the Provincial Superior of the
Karnataka Goa Province celebrated the thanksgiving
Eucharist. After the mass there was the convocation
ceremony for 27 participants who completed the eight
months’ certificate course in spirituality. Rev Fr.
Deep Fernandes, the Councillor in charge of
Spirituality, released the annual souvenir and gave
a touching message encouraging the participants. Fr.
Archibald Gonsalves, the Director of the centre in
his Convocation address gave a bird’s eye view of
the Institute. Fr. Provincial released the book Path
to Happiness, written by Fr. Wilfred Rodrigues, a
comparative study of Buddha and St. John of the
Cross. He then awarded the participants with
certificates and encouraged them to live a life of
sanctity as a path to genuine happiness. The
participants besides singing a melodious chorus and
a welcome dance staged a melodrama. The programme
was well attended by the fathers of the Mangalore
region. The participants thanked the community
fathers for their accompaniment. Fr. Lancy Mendonca,
the Dean of studies, rendered the vote of thanks.
Thus the fourteenth convocation ended with the
singing of the Ryshivana Anthem followed by Agape.
click on the image for more
Silver
Convocation of Dhyanavana On
Sunday, 20th of March 2022, Dhyanavana,
International Institute of Spirituality, Mysore,
celebrated the Silver Jubilee of the Diploma course.
The Convocation ceremony was held in the evening.
Dhyanavana is an international institute of
Spirituality affiliated both to Teresianum
pontifical university, Rome as well as to the
university of Mysore through St. Philomena’s college
Mysore. Dhyanavana offers a 9 months diploma course
in Holistic Spirituality as well as 3 months and 6
months certificate courses. Further during the
summer holidays we also organize many short courses
and retreats. The first Dhyanavana diploma course
was started in 1977. Thereafter every year between
50-60 participants attend this diploma course. On
March 20th in the Morning Bishop Emeritus Thomas
Vazhapilly celebrated the thanksgiving mass after
which he distributed the Term paper of the
participants. In the evening Bishop K A William
presided over the Convocation function, released the
jubilee Souvenir and gave away the Diploma
certificates to the course Participants. In his
message Bishop William referred to the recent
document of Pope Francis where he emphasizes the
real conversion which consists in our relationship
with God, with the church, with the other Christians
and with the people in the world.
Two
Brothers Excel in Studies Bros.
Jesvin Tom Benoy and Prithesh Steeve Crasta, the
alumni of our college of Pushpashrama, Institute of
Philosophy and Religion and presently the first-year
theology students at Carmel Hill, Mangalore, made
the KG province proud by decorating themselves in
gold medals from St. Philomena’s College, Mysore for
the batch 2017 -2020. Br. Jesvin scored the highest
marks in General English and Alternate English and
Br Prithesh scored the highest in Optional English
(Literature) and Philosophy. They were awarded gold
medals during the convocation ceremony held at St.
Philomena’s indoor stadium on 26th March 2022. What
distinguishes their achievements was that being
correspondent students and not attending classes at
the college, they received these accolades among the
regular college attending students. In receiving
these medals, they not only made the province proud
but have also etched their names in the chronicles
of St. Philomena’s college. Br Jesvin hails from New
Delhi and Br Prithesh hails from Vamanjoor,
Mangalore. The KG Province congratulates these
golden Brothers for their spectacular achievement in
their college studies and prays for God’s choicest
blessings as they continue their journey in the
garden of Carmel as the chosen instruments of Jesus.
May they become true sons of Sts. Teresa of Avila
and John of the Cross experiencing the golden
moments in Carmel.
Priestly
Silver Jubilee of Fr. Melwin D’cunha and Fr.
Prasanna Kumar celebrated at Bajjodi The
Ordination Silver Jubilee of Fr Melvin D’cunha and
Fr. Prasanna Kumar was celebrated at Infant Mary
Church. The solemn thanksgiving Holy Eucharistic
celebration was at 6pm at the Infant Mary Church on
Monday, March 22, 2022 wherein Superior of St.
Joseph’s Monastery, Carmel hill Fr. Charles Serrao,
Parish Priest Fr. Ivan D'souza, Fr. Rayan Pinto, Fr.
Stephen Lobo, Fr. Shabas Crasta joined Fr. Melwyn
and Fr. Prasanna in thanking the Almighty for the
numerous blessings received during the last 25 years
of their priesthood. Fr Charles Serrao, preached a
befitting homily. The solemn Eucharistic celebration
was followed by a felicitation programme in the
Parish Mini Hall. Mr. Aloysious Dsouza anchored the
felicitation ceremony. The programme began with a
prayer by Fr. Ivan D'souza. Vice President, Mr.
Prakash Saldanha extended a cordial welcome to all
the dignitaries and the guests. Secretary, Mrs.
Irene Pinto gave a brief flash back of the
Jubilarians. Rev. Fr Shabas Crasta and Fr. Patrick
Lobo raised the toast. The dignitaries felicitated
Fr Melvin D’cunha & Fr. Parasanna Kumar with a
shawl, fruits, Memento and garland after which there
was Cake cutting as the music played congratulating
the Jubilarians. The choir group sang wishing them
on this special occasion.
Carmelites
celebrate St Joseph’s Monastery’s 75th Jubilee “I took for my patron and Lord the glorious
St. Joseph …. I cannot call to mind that I have ever
asked him at any time for anything he has not
granted.” – St Teresa of Avila The
protective hands of St. Joseph have always stood
unwavered over his beloved Carmels from the time of
its inception till its reformation and even until
now! The present evidence is the St. Joseph’s
Monastery, Mangalore which has always been his
beneficiary from 75 years and who as Fr. Archibald
Gonsalves said in the homily, brought with him the
blessings of Our Lady and specifically Infant Jesus.
In order to commemorate the platinum jubilee of the
second oldest foundation of the K G Province, a
great festival was celebrated on 19 March, 2022 at
4:30 PM. Along with over 60 Carmelite friars of our
province, our neighboring priests, religious, the
OCDS and friends, Most Rev Bishop Emeritus of
Mangalore, Dr Aloysius Paul D’Souza thanked the Lord
in the Eucharist for the abundant blessings we’ve
received over 75 years. Fr. Archibald Gonsalves
preached a euphoric homily on St. Joseph and his
special love to Carmelites. The brothers and the
Carmel Choir lent their voices with the faithful in
animating the liturgy.
Birthday
celebration of Fr. Patrick Lobo @ Infant Mary Parish Rev.
Fr. Patrick Lobo celebrated his 77th birthday on
Monday, 14th March. 2022. The celebration began with
a Thanksgiving Mass by Fr. Patrick Lobo at 6 pm for
which parishioners were present in large numbers.
The Parish priest Fr Ivan D’souza, Superior of
Carmel Hill Fr. Charles Serrao, Fr. Rayan Pinto, Fr.
Shabas Crasta concelebrated the mass. Fr. Charles
Serrao preached the Homily. The mass was followed by
a stage programme in the Mini Hall which began with
a prayer led by Fr. Rayan Pinto. The Parish council
Vice President Mr. Prakash Saldanha welcomed the
gathering. Mr. Joseph Mascarenhas spoke a few words
about Fr. Patrick Lobo. Fr. Ivan D'souza too shared
his feelings of appreciation and gratitude for all
the love and service Fr. Patrick Lobo has been
giving to the Church and its people especially his
concern through his visits to families and the sick
every evening. Fr. Charles Serrao spoke a few words
and offered a bouquet of flowers wishing Fr. Patrick
well in the coming years which was followed by cake
cutting. The parish choir team sang a song that was
dedicated to Fr. Patrick on his birthday.
Annual
Catechism day celebrated at Infant Mary Church,
Bajjodi The
annual Catechism day was celebrated at Infant Mary
Church, Bajjodi on 13th March 2021 with a solemn
Eucharistic mass at 8.15 am. Rev. Fr Ivan D Souza
was the main celebrant and Rev. Fr. Michael Shenoy,
concelebrant, preached the sermon on
“transformation”. All the children actively
participated in the liturgy and gave thanks to the
lord for all the blessings throughout the year.
After the mass, a small program was arranged to
congratulate all the winners of the catechism exam
in the church hall at 9:30 am. Rev. Fr. Michael
Shenoy, Rev. Fr Patrick Lobo, Rev. Fr Ivan D Souza,
Rev. Fr. Rayan Pinto, Mr. Prakash Saldanha,
President, Parish Council, Mrs. Irene Pinto,
Secretary, Parish Council, Mrs. Stella D Souza,
Catechism Coordinator, Parents, Teachers and
Children and Youth were present in large numbers for
this program.
International
Women’s Day at Infant Mary Church International
Women’s Day celebration was organised by the Parish
Women's Association on March 8, 2022 at Infant Mary
Church, Bajjodi. The Thanksgiving mass was offered
at 6pm by Parish Priest Fr. Ivan D’Souza and
Companion Priest Fr. Patrick Lobo which was followed
by a get together at 7 pm in the Parish Hall. Fr.
Ivan D'souza presided over the function. Fr. Patrick
Lobo, PPC Vice President - Mr. Prakash Saldanha, PPC
Secretary - Mrs. Irene Pinto were among others
present for the programme. The programme began with
a prayer led by the members of the Women’s
Association. The Association President, Mrs. Meena
Pinto welcomed the gathering. The Women's
Association of the Parish was inaugurated in a
symbolic way. Mrs. Irene Pinto introduced the
Resource Person - Mrs. Rikitha Cutinha. Mrs. Rikitha
in her talk highlighted the role of parents in
bringing up children.
Infant
Jesus Honoured @ Koteshwar The
Infant Jesus feast was celebrated in a grand scale
at Carmel Ashram, Koteshwar –Kundapur. Devotees
thronged to hear Bro. Prakash and his team preached
a spirit filled retreat for 3 days in preparation
for the feast. On 26th of February at 5pm, Rev. Fr.
Praveen Frank, the Regional Vicar of Tanzanian
Carmelite Mission officiated at the Eucharist and
preached the Word of God. Invoking the theme of the
forthcoming Synod he said we are people of faith and
as people of faith let us trust in each other here
on earth so that along with everyone we could go to
heaven. Bro. Prakash D Souza concluding the three
days retreat conducted the adoration for an hour
prior to the Solemn Eucharist which was followed by
honoring the donors of the feast. Fr. Alwyn Sequeira,
Superior of Carmel Ashram thanked all, for their
wholehearted cooperation for the success of the
feast. Rev. Fr. Stany Tauro, the Dean of Kundapur
Deanery wished all a blissful feast of Infant Jesus
and praised the Carmelites for making this place an
oasis of prayer and devotion in the diocese.
Annual
Sports and Inauguration of the Renovated Laboratory
at MCS Ramnagar. The
Annual Sports for the students of the Mount Carmel
School was held from February 24 to 26, 2022. Fr
Jerome Moras OCD, the Founder of MCS was the Chief
Guest and Fr Stifan Perera OCD was the Guest of
Honour. Fr Jerome Moras unfurled the flag and
received the guard of honour. Mr Ramesh Hemkar
declared the ‘annual sports meet’ open. The well-organised
parade was the centre of attractions. During the
programme, a much-awaited renovated Laboratory was
inaugurated. Fr Stifan Perera OCD, sponsor of the
renovation works inaugurated Labs. During the
programme, Frs. Jerome Moras and Stifan Pereia were
honoured for their support towards the growth of the
school.
Sacrament
of Confirmation @ Hegdenagar Church It
was a memorable event for the parish of St. Mary’s
church Hegdenagar, Bengaluru. On the 18th of
February2022 twenty children received sacrament of
confirmation and professed her strong faith in
Christ. The Eucharist celebration was presided over
by Rt. Rev. Dr. Peter Machado, Archbishop of
Bangalore. The whole liturgy was beautifully
animated by the children who received confirmation.
The children were trained by our parish catechists
over a year. The parish priest Fr. Boniface D’ Souza
felicitated Archbishop Peter Machado for all his
support and encouragement and proposed a vote of
thanks towards the end of mass. The mass was
concelebrated by Archbishop’s secretary Deacon
George, Parish priest Fr. Boniface D’ Souza, and Fr.
Adarsh Rodrigues. The melodious choir was conducted
by Fr. Jovel added solemnity to the spiritual
celebration. Thereafter a fraternal meal was served
to his Grace Most Rev. Dr. Peter Machado. We
congratulate these twenty children and pray that
they truly become the soldiers of Christ in their
Christian faith.
God's
amazing blessings to see, in Fr Jignesh, Gujarat
Carmelite Priest Number Three! The
number three has great significance in Christianity!
The Trinity, the three Magi, the Three beloved
apostles, three days of Lord's passion and
resurrection and so on! The number became even more
significant in our Province especially through Fr.
Jignesh, the Third Carmelite Priest from the ‘Jewel
of Western India’ - rich land of Gujarat!. February
19, 2022 was a day of great jubilation and
celebration as the K.G. Province had the joy of
receiving the third Carmelite priest from the land
of Gujarat. Fr Jigneshkumar Solanki having completed
his seminary formation was raised to the Order of
Priesthood on this day by His Grace Most Rev.
Stanislaus Fernandes, S.J., Apostolic Administrator
of the Diocese of Baroda. The Ordination rite was
attended by 47 priests with the majority of them
being Carmelites and the rest were religious and the
diocesan clergy from the diocese of Baroda. Apart
from this, religious nuns, family members, relatives
and friends took great joy in witnessing this
blessed day.
MINOR
ORDERS CONFERRED AT CARMEL HILL “Each of you should use whatever gift you have
received to serve others, as faithful stewards of
God’s grace in its various forms.” (1 Peter 4:
10-11) As
every person is gifted with the seed of vocation in
his/her life, it bears fruit eventually in the
service of God and his children. As Carmelites, we
realize our vocation in the service of the Church by
living the life of prayer and apostolate
particularly as priests. The journey to priesthood
involves a life of dedication and maturation and
recognising this, the Church has instituted the
sacred ministries of Lector and Acolyte as necessary
steps towards diaconate and priesthood. February 8th
2022 was the chosen day as the brothers from the
first year of Theology were officially instituted as
Lectors and the brothers from the second year of
Theology as Acolytes. Rev Fr George Santhumayor,
Provincial Superior who is currently doing his
pastoral visitation at St. Joseph’s Monastery
conferred these ministries to the brothers during
the Holy Eucharist at 7 pm. Fr Lancy Lewis, the
formator took the privilege in initiating the
brothers towards the conferral of the ministries. Fr
Rudolph Pinto preached a homily highlighting the
importance and role of these ministries. The mass
thus concluded at 8: 10 pm and fathers from the
community joined the celebration.
Day
of Consecration celebration at Carmel Home, Belur Renewing
our love story with God would be good for our
consecrated life. “With Jesus, we find again the
courage to carry on and the strength to remain firm.
The encounter with the Lord is the source. It is
important then to return to the source: to retrace
in our mind the decisive moments of encounter with
him, to renew our first love, perhaps writing down
our love story with the Lord. This would be good for
our consecrated life, so that it does not become a
time that passes by, but rather a time of
encounter.” Pope Francis. The Carmel Home Community
at Belur Celebrated the World Day of Religious
Consecrated Life on 6th February 2022, here in our
community along with the Chikamagalur CRI Unit.
Around 50 Religious Nuns and Priests were present
for the Celebration. The Celebration began with Holy
Eucharist Presided by Most Rev. Dr. Bishop Anthony
Swamy who also gave a very meaningful reflection on
Consecrated Life. After the Holy Eucharist we had a
fraternal gathering, where we wished our dear Bishop
on his Episcopal Ordination and anticipated his
birthday celebration. We concluded the Celebration
with a fellowship meal.
Inauguration
of Emmaus Wellness Centre The
newly constructed building of Emmaus Wellness Centre
of the Discalced Carmelites, formerly known as
Emmaus Counselling Centre was inaugurated at the
hands of donor of the property and the house Frank
Carvalho and director of the Emmaus Wellness Centre,
Mapusa, Fr Praveen D’Souza in the presence of
Provincial of the Karnataka-Goa Province of the
Discalced Carmelites Fr George Santhumayor, Superior
of Carmelite Seminary Mapusa Fr Ivo Dias, Fr Alwyn
Sequeira, fathers and brothers of the communities of
Mapusa, Margao, and Xellim and the invitees. The
prayer of the blessing was conducted by Fr George
Santhumayor. Speaking on the occasion, Fr D’Souza
recalled the dream of the owner Frank Carvalho and
his wife late Olga Da Costa Carvalho to use their
property and house for the wellness of the people,
and especially, towards mental and spiritual
wellness. “We had begun counselling and conducted
some short courses on different themes related to
Psychology and Spirituality in their old house which
was donated to us in the year 2007. Since the demand
was growing and a bigger place was required, I
approached Mr Frank with a new plan for the Emmaus.
He, not only encouraged me, but assured his
assistance,” said Fr D’Souza who also holds a
doctorate in Counselling Psychology (clinical). “He
helped us generously to realise this project,” Fr
D’Souza added.
Annual
Feast celebrated at Bajjodi The
7th Annual Feast of Infant Mary Parish, Bajjodi was
celebrated with great pomp and fervor on Sunday the
30th of January 2022. The celebration began with the
Felicitation to the sponsors in the church grounds
after which a procession was held to the church at
9.40am. The benefactors and sponsors of the feast
were honoured with blessed candles by the Parish
Priest Rev. Fr. Ivan D’Souza at 9.45 am. This was
followed by the Solemn Eucharistic celebration at
10am., wherein Rev. Fr. Shabas Crasta (Former Parish
Priest), was the main celebrant. Fourteen priests
concelebrated at the Eucharist. Fr. Rovel Dsouza
preached an inspiring homily on the theme Synod. The
Holy Mass was followed by a Fancy Fete organized by
the PPC & ICYM members from 11.30 am to 2pm. There
was a positive response from people at the fete
-relishing the delicacies at the food counters and
enthusiastically participating at the games
counters.
Christmas
Joy shared in Italy On
December 28, 2021, the community at Santuario La
Madonnina, Capannori, Lucca, Italy, was privileged
to host its first Christmas Gathering of the
Carmelites of the Karnataka-Goa Province serving in
Italy. The Christmas joy was palpable as the friars
from all over Italy – Casa Generalizia, Teresianum,
Santa Maria della Scala (Rome), Santa Maria a Ripa (Empoli),
Corpus Domini (Milan), Santa Teresa del Bambin Gesù
(Legnano) – arrived at this ‘new home’ of our
Province. Rev. Fr Pius D’Souza, the Definitor
General, presided over the Eucharistic celebration
at 11:00 a.m. along with the rest of the friars, the
Secular Carmel, the community of the Carmelite
Sisters of the UCT Congregation and the laity, in
the 400-year-old Shrine dedicated to Our Lady of Mt
Carmel. In his meaningful homily, Fr Pius
highlighted the Carmelite character of the
liturgical feasts just celebrated. Then followed a
sumptuous meal prepared by the expert hands of Frs.
Ajith and Selva.
Prioresses
congregate at Sadbhavana November
23-26, 2021, in keeping with VDQ 13, which
highlights the need of formation in cloistered
contemplative life the Federal Council of the
Federation of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, India
organized a formation course for the Prioresses of 9
Carmels of the Federation. Rev. Fr. Charles Serrao
OCD, Religious Assistant to the Federation was the
resource person. 8 Prioresses and the members of the
Federal Council took part in the meeting. The
meeting commenced with the Holy Eucharist presided
over by Rev. Fr. George Santhumayor, Provincial.
Mother Anna who gave the introduction, set the tone
for the meeting by highlighting 3 points namely:
openness to interdependence; sharing the dynamism of
love; and call to respect. Rev. Fr. Provincial
commended the Sisters for the beauty of their
cloistered contemplative life deliberately chosen by
them where they seek God alone and choose Him and
His glory as against all that is transient and
material.
Definitive
YES to Jesus by Sr Benedicta 19
December 2021 is a day to be rejoiced and cherished
as Sr. Benedicta of the Holy Face, nee Roschelle
Rovina Martis, daughter of Vincent and Mary Martis,
said her definitive 'yes' to Jesus Christ with whom
she found the hidden treasure which was longing in
her life. Inspired by the words of St Paul, she
wanted to know Christ and the power of His
resurrection and the sharing of his sufferings by
becoming like Him (cf. Phil 3:10-11). She solemnly
pronounced the evangelical vows of Chastity, Poverty
and Obedience in the hands of the Prioress, Rev.
Mother Maria of the Blessed Sacrament, in a public
ceremony held at the Cloistered Carmel of God the
Father, Pune. The Eucharistic celebration was
presided over by Most Rev. Dr Thomas Dabre, Bishop
of Poona along with Rev. Fr. George Santhumayor,
Provincial Superior of Karnataka Goa Province and
other Carmelites, Jesuits, Dominican, Holy Cross and
Diocesan priests. Fr George Santhumayor preached an
inspiring homily highlighting the gift of wisdom
which could be acquired through detachment. He also
said that Sr Benedicta pronounced her vows against
three P's of the worldly thinking namely Power,
Possession and Pleasure. Fr Silvestre D’Souza
animated the liturgy. Sr Benedicta expressed the
sentiments of gratitude to all on behalf of the
Cloistered Sisters.The K.G. Province congratulates
and felicitates Sr Benedicta for her YES to the Lord
in the garden of Carmel and accompanies her through
our prayerful support.
Ruby
Jubilee of KG Province & Silver Jubilee of
Sadbhavana On
13th December 2021 was held an extraordinary
celebration of the Karnataka Goa Province. The 40th
anniversary of the birth of the Province which fell
on 12 March 2021 was postponed to this day. Along
with the birthday of the Province, we celebrated the
silver jubilee of our Sadbhavana foundation. We
remembered in a special way all our previous
Provincial Superiors namely Frs. Nemesio Alzola,
Joseph D’Souza, Gregory D’Souza, Lawrence D’Mello,
Joe Tauro, Dominic Vas, Archibald Gonsalves, Charles
Serrao and Pius James D’Souza. All of them were
invited to the unique celebration. We prayed for the
repose of Fr Nemesio. Fr Joseph D’Souza was held
back because of health reasons. Fr Pius James
D’Souza being Definitor had to be present in Rome.
All the others along with the present Provincial
Rev. Fr George Santhumayor formed a golden chain
linking the 40 years of the Karnataka Goa existence
into a happy and wholesome unity. This unity was
further enhanced by the presence of all the local
Superiors of our communities in India who had
assembled for their annual meeting. Since the
following day 14 December had been assigned for the
formators of the Province, many of the formators
added to the number of participants in grand
solemnity.
CEREMONIES
@ ST. JOSEPH COMMUNITY, CALGARY On
the Feast of St. Teresa of Avila, October 15th 2021,
Fr. Jerald D’Souza, Delegate Provincial, officiated
the Rites for members of the St Joseph Community at
St. Thomas More Church, Calgary. He received the
Definitive Promises of Karen Reinberg-Abernethy,
Nidia McIntosh, and Remy Gayanilo; and the First
Promises of Ron Nelson and Donna Ameerali. Michael
McGrath and Monica Rincon were clothed with their
scapulars. He was assisted by Fr. Rajesh D’Souza,
Spiritual Assistant, who concelebrated the
Eucharistic celebration.
CEREMONIES
AT GUARDIAN ANGELS CHURCH, VANCOUVER BC On
13th November 2021, the Communities of St. John of
the Cross and St. Teresa of Jesus had much reason to
celebrate. It was a joyous occasion as members of
both communities, Rowena Lagunzad, Maritess Tan,
Sheila Conception, Maria Vivas, Joey Sepidoza and
Carmelita Weichert made their Definitive Promises;
Talisa Chan made her First Promise; and Catherine
Miu received the Rite of Admission. Fr. Jerald
D’Souza, Provincial Delegate, officiated the Rites
and presided over the Eucharistic Celebration with
concelebrants Fr. John Pinto, Fr. Victor Fernandes,
Fr. Mario Fernandes, and Spiritual Assistant of St.
John of the Cross Fr. Cannio Cardozo. The
participation and presence of so many friars
augmented the celebration and added more
significance to the occasion. Fr. Jerald D’Souza
delivered a soul-searching homily and ignited the
Carmelite zeal for evangelization through our
personal witness of the Carmelite life. The occasion
concluded with fellowship over lunch at a nearby
establishment. It was truly a blessed day!
Inauguration
of the Road and the Parking @ MCS Ramnagar The
Inauguration of the Road and the Parking for the
Staff of the Mount Carmel School, Ramnagar was held
on 7th December 2021. The Road was inaugurated by
Rev Fr Silvestre Dsouza, Superior of Carmelite
Monastery, Margao, and the Parking was inaugurated
by Mr. Roy Rodrigues. Fr Cyprian Fernandes invoked
God’s blessings. During the formal stage program, Fr
Joachim Rodrigues thanked the benefactors especially
Rev Fr Rudolf V. Dsouza and Roy Rodrigues for making
the dream realized. Fr Silvestre and Mr. Roy were
honoured during the occasion. He also placed on
record the support and encouragement given by Rev Fr
Pius James Dsouza, Definitor General, Rev Fr George
Santhumayor, Provincial Superior, the Provincial
team and other Friars of the province in India and
abroad. Fr Wilson Tauro welcomed the gathering while
Fr Anton Souz proposed vote of thanks. Bro Loy
Crasta compered the event.
School
Office Block Inauguration and Blessing The
Inauguration and the blessing of the new office
Block at Mount Carmel School, Belur, took place on
22nd November, 2021 at 10:30 am. Rev. Fr Pius James
D’Souza, Definitor General inaugurated the office
block by cutting the Ribbon and blessed the new
building. Rev. Fr. George Santhumayor, Provincial,
Carmelite Priests from the Province, teaching staff,
non-teaching staff and 10th standard students and
workers who were involved in building this new block
were present at the occasion. The new building block
has the Principal's Office, Clerical office, seminar
hall, class rooms and the washrooms. These were
attached to the existing structures of the school.
The managing staff took this opportunity to wish and
felicitate Rev. Fr Pius James D’Souza, Definitor
General; Rev. Fr George Santhumayor, Provincial
Superior; Fr Prakash D’Cunha, Provincial Councillor
for Temporalities. Besides this Frs. Joseph Pinto
and Prakash D’Cunha were felicitated for their
selfless work towards the completion of the
building. In conclusion, the benefactors and all
those who were involved in the work were
acknowledged. After the programme, the meal was
served to all.
Prayer
Garden of the Carmelites in South Africa The
Carmelite friars of Karnataka-Goa Province who are
serving in Benoni, Johannesburg, South Africa have
built a beautiful prayer garden. The prayer garden
was blessed by Dr Buti Tlhagale the Archbishop of
Johannesburg on November 21, 2021 the solemnity of
Christ the King. The prayer garden is built at Our
Lady of Mount Carmel Parish Benoni, South Africa. Dr
Buti Tlhagale, Archbishop of Johannesburg blessed
the prayer garden and then celebrated the Holy
Eucharist. The Archbishop in his homily thanked all
for creating such a beautiful garden where people
can come and encounter God. This garden will be a
place of healing. Fr Arvin Tauro, the superior and
parish priest, thanked all those who helped to
realize this dream of the prayer garden. The
archbishop also blessed the tabernacle at the
retreat centre chapel. We congratulate our friars
for this prayer garden which will certainly become a
place of encounter with the divine.
Definitive
and Temporary Promises @ Carmel Hill November
14, 2021 was the day of great Joy for the OCDS of St
Teresa of Avila community at Bikarnakatte, Carmel
Hill, Mangalore which was to make the Definitive
Promises of our 6 OCDS members and the Temporary
Promises of 7 OCDS members, after they have
undergone training according to the OCDS
constitution. To mark this unique event, the Holy
Eucharist was celebrated by Rev. Fr. George
Santhumayor, Provincial along with five
concelebrants. Fr. Rudolph Raj Pinto, OCDS Spiritual
Assistant, preached a meaningful homily. During the
mass OCDS members made their definitive promise to
the Lord are: Mr. Antony D’Souza, Mrs. Leena
Rasquinha, Mrs. Lucy Pais, Mrs. Marie D’Almeda, Mrs.
Sharlet Rasquinha, and Mr. Stanislaus Pinto. And the
members who made their Temporary promise to the Lord
are: Mrs. Dulcine Fernandes, Ms. Jovita Fernandes,
Mrs. Juliana D’Souza, Mr. Lancy Lobo, Mrs. Leena
Pinto, Mrs. Mary Lobo and Mrs. Precilla D’Souza.
BASIC
TRAINING SKILLS FOR CHORAL SINGING Though
there is no dearth for singers in our church choirs
yet they lack basic training in singing. Though they
have skills yet they have no opportunities to learn
the basics of choral singing. To fill this gap the
Carmelites from Carmel Ashram, Katkere, Koteshwar
organized a seminar on Basic Training Skills for
Choral Singing. Sangeeth Maestro Joel Pereira, Bejai
was the resource person. The training was held on
Sunday 7th of November, 2021from 10am to 4pm at
Divine Mercy Hall, Carmel Ashram. Around 75 singers
from the Kundapur deanery participated and benefited
from this seminar. Training included: Introduction
to basic music; basics of choral singing; basics of
voices and its complexity and rending,
classification of voices, singing in parts,
Gregorian and Polyphonic singing, taking care of
vocals and basic exercises in singing. Earlier Rev.
Fr. Stany Tauro the Dean of Kundapur Deanery lighted
the lamp and inaugurated the seminar. In his
introductory speech, he said that ‘the one who sings
not only prays twice but also helps the congregation
to pray twice, therefore it’s imperative that all
the choir members should have some knowledge about
liturgical choir. Liturgical choir is not a
performance rather it plays a facilitating function
in animating the liturgy’. He wished well to the
resource person and the participants. Fr. Alwyn
Sequeira welcomed the gathering and introduced the
speaker and Fr. Francis Bartholomio took care of the
logistics. Congratulations to the community of
Carmel Ashram for their innovative ministry in
Koteshwar.
Fr.
Definitor and Fr. Provincial are felicitated at Goa! The
five communities from Goa region (Mapusa, Xellim,
Matadakeri, Londa and Margao) were scheduled to have
their regular gathering in the month. Since the
newly elected Definitor, Fr. Pius James D’Souza and
the newly appointed Provincial, Fr. George
Santhumayor, were to visit the region, it was
decided to have a joint felicitation on 11th of
November, 2021 at Margao. It began with the
recitation of the vespers and special prayers. Fr.
Silvestre D’Souza, the Superior of Margao monastery
was the compere for the programme. After the welcome
extended by Fr. Ronald D’Souza, Frs. Joachim
Rodrigues and Ivo Dias highlighted the sterling
qualities of the Definitor and Provincial,
respectively, and assured them of our support in
discharging their onerous responsibilities. Frs.
Alvito Fernandes and Juze D’Souza offered flowers,
while the postulants sang a wishing song, specially
composed for the occasion. The Definitor and
Provincial shared the sentiments of their heart and
how they never expected these turn of events. Now
that they have accepted the offices, they promised
to give their all and serve the province in the best
ways possible.
New
OCDS Council of St Elizabeth of the Trinity
Community On
7th of November 2021 the election was conducted for
the OCDS members of St Joseph’s community, Mira
Road. Fr Deep Fernandes presided over the election
and Fr Roshan Monthero, the Spiritual Assistant was
present. The newly elected members are:
· President – Mrs. Jubilee
· Formator – Mr. Thomas
· 1st councillor – Mrs. Diana
· 2nd councillor – Mrs. Anita Shiny
· 3rd councillor – Mrs. Leonara
We congratulate the new OCDS Council and wish them
all the best in their responsibilities. We offer our
prayerful support to the entire Council.
New
OCDS Council of St Joseph's Community On 7th of November 2021 the election was conducted
for the OCDS members of St Joseph’s community, Mira
Road. Fr Deep Fernandes presided over the election
and Fr Lawrence D’Cunha, the Spiritual Assistant was
present. The newly elected members are:
· President: Mrs. Rosy D Souza
· Formator: Mrs. Celine Mendonca
· 1st councillor: Mrs. Jessy Pinto
· 2nd councillor: Violet D Souza
· 3rd councillor: Felcy D Souza
We congratulate the new OCDS Council and wish them
all the best in their responsibilities. We offer our
prayerful support to these elected members.
Retreat
for Couples at Matadakeri On
5thNovember 2021, One day Retreat was held at STELLA
MARIS Monastery, Matadakeri, Honnavar for the
Married Couples of the diocese of Karwar. There were
76 Participants from different parishes of the
Diocese. Fr. Nelson Pinto OCD, from Carmel Ashram,
Shivamogga gave a meaningful and heart touching
reflection on the importance of the Sacrament of
Marriage. Fr. Antony Lopes, the Parish priest of
Mudkani Presided over the Eucharist and Fr. Joseph
D'Souza OCD kept the participants lively and active
through his music and action songs. The spiritual
reflections, prayerful adoration and the Holy
Eucharist spiritually nourished and enhanced the
participants. We thank the community of Stella Maris
for their innovative skills in meeting the spiritual
needs of the people of God in the diocese of Karwar.
Rosary
Devotion at Xellim Pope
Leo XIII said: "The Rosary is the most excellent
form of prayer and the most efficacious means of
attaining eternal life. It is the remedy for all our
evils, the root of all our blessings. There is no
more excellent way of praying."
In the chapel of Our Lady of Fatima, Xellim, the
faithful of the parish dedicated the month of
October to honour and pray the holy rosary every day
near the cross. In the chapel dedicated to Our Lady
of Fatima, they celebrate the feast on 13th. On 13th
a big procession was initiated from St. Sebastian
Church to Our Lady of Fatima chapel. This year due
to the pandemic the vehicle procession went to all
the village roads of Church and chapel. The closing
ceremony of Month of Rosary was celebrated pompously
at Xellim, Goa. A number of devotees gathered
prayerfully to honour our heavenly Mother. The
ceremony consisted of singing hymns to our lady,
praying of the rosary and the litany with candle
light. It began at 6 pm and concluded with singing
of beautiful hymns at the chapel. At these difficult
times, mother Mary has been our greatest
intercessor. She has lovingly stood by the faithful
and will continue to do the same. Let the rosary
spirit of October continue in us and let the Blessed
Mother remain the queen in each of our families,
helping us go closer to his Son Jesus Christ.
Blessing
of the Renovated Chapel @ Kadaganchi November
3, 2021 Wednesday is a day to be ruminated and
accredited as the blessing of the renovated chapel
which is dedicated to Our Lady of Mount Carmel took
place at Kadaganchi, one of the mission stations of
the Province. The blessing ceremony commenced at
10-30 am. The cutting of the ribbon was done by the
Definitor General Rev. Fr Pius James D’Souza after
which the Holy Mass was presided over by Most Rev.
Robert Miranda, Bishop of Gulbarga along with the
Provincial Rev. Fr George Santhumayor, the
Provincial Councillors, the community friars and the
priests from the neighbouring mission centres. The
Bishop blessed the renovated Church and appreciated
the good work of the Carmelites. The Definitor
General in his homily highlighted the recent synod
and catechised the gathering regarding the new synod
and summarised the role of the people in three
points – Communion, Participation and Mission which
are essential ingredients to be the members of the
Church. The choir was animated by Dn. Babusha
Rodrigues. After the mass, a short felicitation
programme was organised where Fr Sandeep Goveas
compeered the programme. The Bishop, Definitor and
the Provincial were felicitated and honoured. Fr
Prakash D’Cunha introduced the new book written by
Fr Ligoury Crasta “Minding your Mind – A practical
self-counselling guide for everyday problems” and
the Bishop, Definitor and Provincial released the
book and appreciated the hard work of Fr Liguory
Crasta.
Golden
birthday of Fr William Miranda @ Jagalur For
by me your days will be multiplied, and years will
be added to your life. (Proverbs 9:11) With this
Biblical theme, the community friars of Prerana,
Jagalur celebrated the golden birthday of Fr.
William Miranda OCD on the 1st of November 2021. The
celebration was indeed a memorable one with the
presence of our Definitor General Rev. Fr. Pius
James Dsouza and with the maiden visit of the
Provincial superior Rev. Fr. George Santhumayor. The
celebration began with the mass at 6:30 pm presided
over by a birthday boy and concelebrated by 28
priests from the neighbouring Carmelite communities
and from the deanery priests of the diocese of
Shimoga. After the mass, the community organised a
short felicitation program merging both honouring
the newly elected Definitor General, newly nominated
Provincial and wishing the golden birthday
celebrant. As a sign of brotherhood and friendship
all the priests joined the fellowship meal and
thanked the Lord for the 50 years of life to Fr.
William Miranda. The community friars acknowledged
his selfless service to the community and to the
Province and wished him God’s blessings in the years
to come.
Dual
Celebration at Sadbhavana October
28, 2021 Thursday, the friars of Bengaluru region
assembled to celebrate the Solemn feast of St Teresa
of Jesus, the patroness of the Province and to
felicitate our Definitor General Rev. Fr Pius James
D’Souza on his first visit to the Province. The
Spiritual celebration began at 7-00 pm with the Holy
Eucharist presided over by the Definitor General and
concelebrated by the Provincial, Councillors and the
Bengaluru region friars. The liturgy was animated by
Br Ruban. Fr Wilfred Frank gave a spirited homily.
Then followed the programme under the guidance of Fr
Prakash D’Cunha. Frs. Pius James D’Souza, the
Definitor and George Santhumayor, the Provincial
mutually recalled the cordial relationships they had
enjoyed and the cooperation between them that has
led to this moment of rejoicing for the Province.
Shawls and bouquets were exchanged along with
greetings, congratulations and best wishes for the
days to come. The new 4th Provincial Councillor Fr
Ronald D’Souza too received a special welcome by the
Provincial. The local superiors of St Mary’s Church,
Hegdenagar and Divya Sadan, Geddalahalli took the
occasion as an opportunity for meeting and greeting
our Definitor General. The Delegate Superior of
Sadbhavana Fr Jerald D’Souza provided the assembled
friars with a sumptuous dinner for which the First
Councillor Fr Melvin D’Cunha prayed the grace before
meals.
OCDS
Election at Katkere, Koteshwar The
triennial election of the Infant Jesus community of
OCDS, Katkere, Koteshwar was held on 16th and 27th
of October 2021. On 16th October at 04-00 pm the
feast of St Teresa of Avila was celebrated and
presided over by Fr Alwyn Sequeira, Superior of
Carmel Ashram. Fr Deep Fernandes preached a
meaningful homily. Frs. Cyril Menezes and
Bartholomio Francis concelebrated. After the Holy
Eucharist refreshments were served to all. At 5.30
pm the election started. Fr. Alwyn welcomed Fr. Deep
Fernandes, Provincial delegate of the OCDS and all
the members. Later Fr. Deep presided over the
election and explained in detail the modalities of
the same and responsibilities of all the elected
members. The members clarified all their doubts.
Since it was already late, they decided to have the
election proper on 27th of Oct at 3pm. On 27th all
members could not be present due to various
obligations. Fr. Alwyn led the prayer and Fr. Deep
requested the old council to brief about their
respective portfolios and accordingly all the office
bearers shared the activities they organized and
also the setbacks they faced. Later with secret
ballots following members were chosen for various
offices. Fr. Deep asked their consent and
administered the oath of office.
To
Serve and not to be Served On
17th October 2021, the three Brothers namely John
Muna, George Masambu and Prosper Kaiza were ordained
Deacons by Most Rev. Telesphore Richard Mkude,
Bishop Emeritus of Morogoro, Tanzania. The Solemn
Eucharistic celebration commenced at 9-00 am, at Our
Lady of Mount Carmel Church, Kihonda. The bishop in
his homily instructed the Deacons to follow the
example of Jesus who came to serve and not to be
served. He also invited the Deacons to be rooted in
the life of prayer. Rev. Fr Praveen Frank, Regional
Vicar expressed his gratitude to the Bishop for his
love and concern towards the Carmelites. He also
thanked formators and superiors who accompanied
these Deacons through their formative years. Special
thanks goes to Fr Aureus Mwinuka, the Parish Priest
who made all the necessary arrangements of the
Diaconate. The celebration was attended by a large
number of faithful, religious and the priests. After
the mass, a short programme was organised where the
newly ordained Deacons were felicitated by the
Carmelite friars. The centre of attraction was the
wishing song cum dance by little children which
added more joy to the celebration. The Vicariate of
Tanzania rejoices with these three Deacons and prays
for God’s blessings upon them.
OCDS
Election at Matadakeri, Honnavar On
17 October 2021, the OCDS members of Flos Carmeli
community of St Sebastian Church, Matadakeri came
together after the Eucharistic celebration to elect
the local council members. Rev. Fr Deep Fernandes,
Delegate Provincial for OCDS instructed the members
regarding the mode of appointment and conducted the
elections. Fr Suresh Saldanha, Spiritual Assistant
of the community also was present. The following
were the newly elected members of the local council. · President: Mr. Salvador R. Mendes
· 1st Councillor: Mr. Duming Miranda
· 2nd Councillor: Mrs. Dorin Fernandes
· 3rd Councillor: Mrs. Sujatha R D'Souza
We congratulate the newly elected members and
accompany them through our prayerful support. We
also offer our fraternal support to Fr Suresh
Saldanha who is guiding them in Carmelite life.
Vow
to Almighty God for LIFE On
16th October 2021, the Vicariate of Tanzania
rejoiced in thanking the Lord as the three Brothers
namely George Masambu, Prosper Kaiza and John Muna
committed themselves totally to the Lord in the
garden of Carmel through the Solemn Vows for life.
The liturgical ceremony was presided over by Rev.
Fr. Praveen Frank, Regional Vicar of the Vicariate
of Tanzania. He also received their Solemn Vows at
St. Edith Stein- Carmelite Scholastic Chapel, Kola
Morogoro. In his homily, he encouraged them to
commit themselves completely to the Lord through an
authentic community living empowered by the life of
prayer. The Vicariate wishes and congratulates these
three young men as they initiate a new chapter in
their religious life.
Carmelite
Deacons….in the Footsteps of Christ “...available
in life, meek of heart and in constant dialogue with
Jesus, you will not be afraid to be servants of
Christ, and to encounter and caress the flesh of the
Lord in the poor of our time.”
– Pope Francis address to the deacons May 30, 2016
As St. Paul says, “...Deacons likewise must be men
of dignity but holding to the mystery of the faith
with a conscience” (1 Timothy 3:8), the Catholic
Church after having recognized these virtues in our
Carmelite brothers namely; Bros. Ronald Pudthado,
Jason Coutinho, and Aaron Babusha Rodrigues, gladly
raised them to the rank of clergy on 13th October
2021 at St. Joseph’s Church, Jeppu. They were
conferred the sacred order of Diaconate by Bishop
Peter Paul Saldanha along with seven other diocesan
brothers from Mangalore and Udupi dioceses during
the Eucharistic celebration at 3:00 PM. It was
indeed a privilege to see the overjoyed yet angelic
faces of our brothers when they received the
Dalmatic in the presence of their family, friends
and especially the Carmelite family.
Annual
Feast the parish celebrated at St Mary’s Church The
Annual feast of St Mary's Church, Hegde Nagar,
Bengaluru was celebrated on the 10th October 2021.
As a spiritual preparation for the feast, the three
days of novena masses were celebrated and preached
by Fr. Sunny Richard (in charge of family
apostolate, Archdiocese of Bangalore). Having
received spiritual strength during the novena
masses, the faithful were enthusiastic to celebrate
the festal mass. The Solemn festal mass was
celebrated in different languages, three masses in
the morning and one in the evening. The main
celebrant and the preacher of the day was Fr. John
Sequeira OCD, Rector of Pushpashrama, Mysore. He
solemnized the celebration with his dynamic presence
and thought-provoking homily. The evening solemn
eucharist was concelebrated by Frs. Boniface D’Souza,
Parish Priest, Adarsh Rodrigues, Assistant Priest,
Jovel Oliver, Vinod Lobo and Ajith Rodrigues. The
feast celebration was concluded with the Eucharistic
Adoration and benediction. The parish priest Fr
Boniface D'Souza thanked all the parishioners for
joining their mighty hands to celebrate the feast.
May the feast of Blessed Virgin Mary unite the
faithful and bring all the parishioners closer to
Jesus to walk in the footsteps of Christ.
Our
Lady of Fatima honoured at Xellim The
Miracle of the Sun, also known as the Miracle of
Fátima, is a series of events reported to have
occurred miraculously on 13 October 1917, attended
by a large crowd who had gathered in Fátima,
Portugal, in response to a prophecy made by three
shepherd children, Lucia Santos and Francisco and
Jacinta Marto. The prophecy was that the Virgin Mary
would appear and perform miracles on that date.
To mark this event, on October 13, 2021 the Chaplain, Confraria community in
collaboration with St Sebastian Church, Loliem
Parish organised a procession after the Eucharistic
celebration. The procession commenced at 6-00 pm and
concluded at 10-00 pm. During the procession, the
faithful devoutly prayed the Rosary and sang hymns
in honour of our Lady. The response of the people
was very positive as the image of our Lady of Fatima
went in procession. The People on the way honoured
Mary by lighting the candles and offering incense.
After the procession the solemn blessing was given
to the devotees of Mary. It was a moment of
happiness to see even the non-Christian brethren
were present outside their houses and received
blessings from Mary. The Confraria and the Loliem
Parish faithful immensely thank the maternal
protection of Blessed Virgin Mary and thank the Lord
for the numerous blessings that they have received
through the intercession of Mary.
Seminar
on Eucharist at Carmel Ashram, Koteshwar A
seminar was held on 3rd of October 2021 at Carmel
Ashram Katkere, Koteshwar on the theme “Eucharist is
the source and Summit of Christian Life”. Fr. Dr.
Rudolf Raj Pinto was the resource person. The
representatives of Pastoral Commissions of Bible and
Liturgy belonging to Kundapur deanery were the
participants. All in all, there were 40
participants: 30 representatives from 6 parishes, 6
OCDS members and 4 priests. Deanery Coordinator for
Bible and Liturgy Commissions, Fr. Alwyn Sequeira
welcomed the gathering and thanked all at the end of
the seminar. Fr. Francis Bartholomew supervised the
logistics, Fr. Cyril presented a memento to the
resource person and Fr. Deep compered the program.
Meals were served at noon. The seminar was conducted
in consultation with the Udupi Diocesan Coordinator
Fr. Stephen D Souza and the Kundapur deanery
priests. Fr. Rudolf explained the theology of the
Eucharist in the forenoon session and parts of Mass
in the afternoon session. Participants expressed
their satisfaction and requested for more of such
informative seminars in the future.
St.
Therese of the Child Jesus OCDS Community, Margao:
“Come and See” On
19th of September, 2021 the St. Therese of the Child
Jesus OCDS Community based at Lar de Sta Terezinha,
Margao Goa, were delighted to welcome 12 candidates
for the “Come and See” program. Fr. Jeevan Tauro OCD
represented the Spiritual Assistant Fr. Silvestre
D'Souza OCD who was away in Mysuru. The president,
Mrs. Martha Pereira joyfully introduced the
candidates to the community. The Director of
Formation, Mrs. Beliza Antao and her Assistant, Mr.
Roy Rodrigues briefed them about the life of the
OCDS. During the Vespers all earnestly raised
prayers to God for the 12 chosen ones. It concluded
with the intonation of the "Salve Regina." Fr.
Jeevan blessed the candidates and presented them
with a rose and St. Therese's bookmark.
Coincidentally, it was Fr. Jeevan, Mureen, and
Jyotsna's birthday this month, and so they together
cut the birthday cake.
New
OCDS unit at Avila Jyothi, Mapusa October
3, 2021 is a historical moment for the Avila Jyothi,
Carmelite Seminary Mapusa as they inaugurated the
new Unit of OCDS members. On this day 20 fresh
members having experienced the Carmelite
spirituality from the friars of the community came
forward to express their willingness and desire to
join OCDS. The new unit will be called the St Teresa
of Avila community. The Spiritual Assistant Fr
Macson Dabre had invited the OCDS communities of
Mount Carmel and St Therese of Child Jesus from
Margao who shared their experiences as the active
members of OCDS. As we rejoice with these 20
members, we wish to accompany them through our
prayerful support so that they persevere in their
vocation. We also congratulate and express our
gratitude to the Avila Jyothi community for this
milestone and wish all the best to Fr Macson Dabre,
Spiritual Assistant as he guides these members to
savour the sweetness of Carmel.
Fr
Venil is appointed as the Pastor of St Mark’s Church
Rev.
Fr. Venil D’souza was solemnly appointed and
installed as Pastor at St. Mark’s Catholic Church -
Calgary on September 26th. Rt. Rev. Bishop William
T. McGrattan arrived at the Church at 11.45 and went
through the preparations of this ceremony and
greeted all present at the Church. Then the solemn
mass began at 12 noon. Fr. Rudolf V. D’Souza read
out the letter of appointment and during the homily
the bishop insisted that a Pastor is the good
Shepherd after the example of Christ himself and
highlighted the duties and obligations of the pastor
towards the Diocese and the people of God. After the
homily various formalities of the installation of
the pastor were followed and at the end of the Mass
Bishop congratulated Fr. Venil and thanked all the
parishioners. Fr. Venil at the end thanked the
bishop and all those who were present. It was a
memorable ceremony. We congratulate Fr. Venil
D’Souza for his appointment as the pastor of St.
Mark’s Church and wish him all the best in his
responsibility.
New
office bearers of Infant Mary OCDs Community,
Bajjodi The
triennial election of the Infant Mary community was
held on 26th of September 2021 at 9.30am. Fr. Deep
Fernandes, Delegate Provincial of the Secular Carmel
officiated the election. The Spiritual Assistant Fr.
Ivan Dsouza and 19 OCDS members were present. Gracy
Fernandes, the President welcomed everyone. Fr. Ivan
D'souza presented a bouquet of flowers to Fr. Deep
Fernandes. Gretta Lobo, Secretary read the Annual
report. Fr. Deep Fernandes explained the importance
of Secular Carmel and gave a few guidelines on the
procedure of the election. The following were elected for the next three
years.
President: Asuntha Mendonca
First Councillor: Sylvia Mascarenhas
Second Councillor: Gracy Fernandes
Third Councillor: Leena Cornelio
Fr. Deep Fernandes after seeking their consent
confirmed them in their respective offices. Asuntha
Mendonca proposed the vote of thanks. We
congratulate the new team of the OCDS office bearers
and wish them all the best in their responsibility.
The Community comprises Nine in Temporary Promises;
Twelve in Novitiate Formation and Four in Initial
Formation.
First
Holy Communion at St Mary’s church, Hegde Nagar It
was a joyous and glorious moment for the parish of
St. Mary’s church, Hegde Nagar, Bangalore on the
20th of August 2021. Due to the pandemic, the event
had to be postponed twice. On this day the
twenty-three children received first Holy Communion
for the first time in their lives. The solemn
Eucharistic celebration was presided over by Fr.
Vinod Lobo OCD, Provincial Secretary and
concelebrated by Fr. Boniface D’ Souza, Parish
Priest and Fr. Adarsh Rodrigues, Assistant Priest.
Fr. Vinod Lobo preached an inspiring homily - how to
make a difference in life after receiving Jesus into
one’s lives. The melodious choir was conducted by
the parish choir. The whole liturgy was meaningfully
animated by the children who received the first Holy
Communion. The Parish Priest expressed the
sentiments of gratitude to the sisters and the
teachers who catechized the children for almost
three months. The children who received the first
holy communion were given a scapular, Rosary and
certificate. As we congratulate these children, we
pray that they may deepen their faith in the person
of Jesus Christ as they grow in their Christian
lives.
Pastoral
visit of Infant Mary Church by the Bishop of
Mangalore It
was indeed a joyous and memorable event for the
entire parish of Infant Mary Church, Bajjodi to
receive Bishop Most Rev. Dr. Peter Paul Saldanha for
the Pastoral visit on 16th and 17th September 2021.
The Priests from Infant Mary Parish, Vice President
Mr. Prakash Saldanha, Secretary Mrs. Irene Pinto,
Coordinator Mr. Joseph Mascarenhas, members of the
Parish Council, Altar Servers, Choir members,
Sisters of OSS community, representatives from
different associations, St. Joseph’s Monastery
Friars and brothers, Parishioners along with the 54
Confirmation candidates gathered at OSS Convent at
3.15pm on the 16th of September to receive Bishop
Most Rev. Peter Paul Saldanha and gave him a warm
welcome. The gathering then accompanied His
Excellency to the new serene ambience of the well
decorated Infant Mary Church, Bajjodi and was
welcomed with Flowers by 12 First Holy Communicants
dressed in white at the entrance of the Church. A
meaningful prayer service was held in the church
where the Bishop gave teaching on Indulgence.
Thereafter at 4.15 pm, the Bishop conducted
catechism on the sacrament of confirmation for the
54 candidates of our parish who were to receive the
sacrament of confirmation.
This website was launched in 2006 during the silver
jubilee celebrations of the Karnataka-Goa Province of
the Discalced Carmelite Order.
The ancient Carmelites founded in the thirteenth century
were reformed in the sixteenth by two great doctors of
the church, Saints Teresa and John of the Cross. These
spiritual geniuses, while re-enforcing the contemplative
dimension of the Carmelites, inserted a decidedly
apostolic thrust into their spirituality, with special
emphasis on the missions.
During the seventeenth century, we find Carmelite
missionaries in several pockets along the west coast of
the Indian sub-continent : Surat, Diu, Goa, Verapoly. In
the eighteenth, Carmelites were appointed vicars
apostolic of "the Great Mogul" and Verapoly. They are
invited to attend to the pastoral needs of the Catholics
in Mumbai. In the nineteenth century, the sees of
Mangalore and Quilon were entrusted to the sons of St.
Teresa.
Finally, in the twentieth century, the Discalced
Carmelites opened their doors to Indian natives, who
would henceforth draw more freely from the rich
spiritual treasures of Sts. Teresa, John of the Cross,
and other Carmelite interreters of the Good News of
Jesus.
As Indian vocations multiplied, more and more
foundations were made, and grouped into "provinces".
Today among more than thirty provinces world-wide, there
are five Indian provinces . One of these is the
Karnataka-Goa province.
The aim of this web-site is, primarily to acquaint
readers with Carmelite history and tradition; to share
the spiritual insights of the great Carmelite saints and
also give glimpses of the life within the province to
all our associates. Articles of topical interest have
also been included.
Dear Friends,
Here I send you the link to my KINDLE BOOKS LIBRARY.
You are welcome download books and read them and
recommend them to your friends who are interested in
Carmelite Spirituality. These books are cheap and
affordable and some of them can be read free of
charge if you are a member in Amazon online Kindle
books. These books uploaded on AMAZON kindle version
can be accessed through smart phones, IPad,
Computers and other electronic devices globally in
all the 5 continents. This is actually the new trend
in publishing books as the hard copy of the books is
practically becoming obsolete especially in Europe
and Americas. Hence, this is a new venture in
publishing books.
click here to read
HOMILIES IN ENGLISH (VIDEO):
The following homilies have been preached by Rev. Fr.
Rudolf V. D'Souza OCD, Parish Priest at Guardian Angels
Church, Vancouver Canada.The first three homilies are of
his Lenten mission reflections in the parish.
The remaining are Sunday homilies which will be
regularly uploaded. All our friends and well-wishers are
most welcome to benefit from these reflections.
Click here to listen :
REFLECTIONS IN KONKANI (Audio)
You are welcome to benefit spiritually from the
reflections of our Carmelite Friar - Rev. (Dr) Rudolf
V. D’Souza, OCD
Retreat preached on the theme “The Kingdom of God is
at hand” at Abu Dhabi, from 26 November to 2 December,
2009.
Day 1: The Kingdom of God
Day 2: The Beatitudes
Day 3: The Seven Sacraments
Day 4: the Ten Commandments
Day 5: Holy Mother, the Church and Mother mary
Day 6A: Family
Day 6B: Love
Click here to Listen
Retreat preached at Ruwi – Muscat (Oman) from 20 to 24 January 2008
THEME: JESUS CAME TO GIVE LIFE, LIFE IN ABUNDANCE (JOHN
10:10)
1. ABUNDANT LIFE - GOD
2. FORGIVENESS
3. LOVE
4. SUFFERINGS
5. 7 WORDS FROM THE CROSS AND RESURRECTION
Click here to Listen