A Milestone Achieved: Canonical Establishment of the Community
With hearts full of joy and gratitude, the St. Therese of the Child
Jesus OCDS Community, Lar de Santa Terezinha, Margao-Goa, celebrated the
swift receipt of the indult, a testament to God's favour and blessings.
This remarkable achievement is attributed to the intercession of our
beloved patroness, St. Therese of Lisieux.
On August 25, 2024, Rev. Fr. Deep Francis Fernandes, OCD, Provincial
Delegate of OCDS, presided over the Thanksgiving Mass, accompanied by
co-celebrants Fr. Lancy Mendonca, Fr. Jeevan Tauro, and Fr. Roshan
Monteiro. The ceremony was also graced by the presence of Fr. George
Santhumayor, and Fr. Diogo Proenca. In his homily, Fr. Deep emphasized
the importance of commitment, likening the Canonical Establishment to a
"Betrothal," where the Carmelite Order enters into a sacred covenant
with the community, acknowledging their mutual relationship and
responsibilities.
The Decree of Canonical Establishment was promulgated, officially
erecting the group into a community of the Secular Order of the Most
Blessed Virgin Mary of Mount Carmel. This significant act was carried
out by Fr. Deep Francis Fernandes, Provincial Delegate, in the presence
of Fr. Lancy Mendonca, Spiritual Assistant, Fr. Marlon Rodrigues,
Superior, Mr. Sebastian Mendes, OCDS Provincial President, and Mrs.
Elizabeth Santos, OCDS, President of the Mt. Carmel Community. The
Decree was formally presented to Mrs. Martha Pereira, OCDS, President of
the St. Therese Community, and the council members.
A commemorative keepsake was unveiled, symbolizing the unity and love
that binds us as we continue our journey of serving the Church and our
communities with renewed zeal and dedication. The OCDS community
expresses deep gratitude to God for the gift of their vocation, their
call to holiness, and for the guidance of the Carmelite Order.
Mrs. Valerie Antao expressed heartfelt thanks, and the occasion was
brought to a close with a "Grace before Meals" led by Fr. Jeevan Tauro,
marking the conclusion of this joyous celebration.