Welcome to Sadbhavana : Carmelite Provincialate

HIGHLIGHTS

click on the image to read more

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.

more News & Announcements

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.

^TOP

PROVINCIAL COUNCIL

We invite you to begin the day with poetic reflections on the day's Gospel composed by our Friar,

Rev. Fr. Paul D'Souza, OCD
Click here for more

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

by Rev. Fr. Rudolf V. D'Souza OCD,
click here

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

Homilies preached on various occasions from 2007-2009 at St. Joseph’s Church, Mira Road, Mumbai (now the largest parish in the Archdiocese of Bombay) when he was Parish Priest.
Click here to Listen
Click here to Listen
Click here to Listen