Overflowing with Grace: Fr. Jesvin Tom Benoy Ordained to the Priesthood at Pushpashrama
On the radiant morning of May 19, 2025, the Infant Jesus Shrine at Pushpashrama, Mysuru, resounded with joy and thanksgiving as the Discalced Carmelites of the Karnataka-Goa Province witnessed the sacred ordination of Deacon Jesvin Tom Benoy to the priesthood. This profound moment was not only a celebration of a personal vocation fulfilled, but also a jubilant affirmation of God’s enduring call within the Carmelite family.

Hailing originally from Kerala and raised in Delhi, Fr. Jesvin's journey to the priesthood began in 2014 when, inspired by the gentle whisper of God’s call, he entered the Discalced Carmelite Order. His spiritual and intellectual formation was nurtured across various Carmelite houses: postulancy in Margao, novitiate in Kushalnagara where he professed his first vows in 2016, philosophical studies at Pushpashrama, and a Bachelor of Arts from St. Philomena’s College, Mysore. His regency in Huvina Hadagali and theological formation at St. Joseph’s Seminary, Mangalore, further shaped him into a man of prayer and purpose. He made his solemn profession in 2023 and was ordained a deacon in 2024. His diaconate ministry at St. Joseph’s Church, Mira Road, Mumbai, served as a final preparation for the sublime gift of priesthood.

Fr. Jesvin chose the inspiring theme “Filled to the Brim with Grace,” drawn from 2 Corinthians 4:7 and the miracle at Cana, which will serve as his priestly motto. Reflecting on this, he shared:
“Like the stone jars filled to the brim, I come before the Lord—ordinary, yet ready to be transformed. Through His grace, the water of my efforts and the countless sacrifices made on my behalf over the years will become the wine of priestly ministry, poured out for His people.”
The sacred ordination was conferred by Most Rev. Johannes Gorantla, OCD, the Bishop of Kurnool, making the occasion all the more grace-filled and meaningful, as a Carmelite bishop ordained a Carmelite deacon in a Carmelite Shrine. Concelebrating with him were 63 priests, accompanied by numerous religious sisters, family members, and a large congregation of the faithful from Mysore, Mangalore, and Mumbai.
In his homily, Bishop Johannes emphasized that the priesthood is a call to self-emptying love, prophetic witness, and humble service—an invitation to become a living sign of Christ among His people. The liturgy was prayerfully animated by Fr. Wilfred Rodrigues, and the choir led by the philosophy brothers at Pushpashrama, adding a sense of solemn dignity and spiritual richness to the celebration.

Following the Eucharistic celebration, Fr. Jesvin offered a heartfelt note of gratitude to his formators, parents, family members, benefactors, and all those who walked with him on this journey of faith. Fr. Silvestre D’Souza OCD, the Provincial Superior, expressed deep appreciation to Bishop Johannes, the newly ordained priest, and all who had supported this beautiful vocation story.

Three spiritual and useful publications were released on the occasion:
1. Mystical Way of Life by Dr. Gregory D’Souza
2. The Spiritual Elevator – Biblical Foundation of the Little Way of St. Thérèse of Lisieux by Dr. Richard D’Souza
3. Hope – Helmet of Salvation for the Spiritual Battle by Dr. Richard D’Souza

As the Carmelite family lifts its heart in thanksgiving, they entrust Fr. Jesvin’s priesthood to the maternal care of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, praying that his life and ministry may be a fragrant offering, bearing abundant fruit in the vineyard of the Lord. May he continue to serve the Church with zeal, humility, and a heart always filled to the brim with grace.