“Do You Love Me?” – A Novice’s Commitment to the Lord
First Profession of Br. Ronal Cloyten D’Cunha, OCD
In a moment marked by grace, solemnity, and profound joy, Br. Ronal Cloyten D’Cunha, the last novice of the current Tapovana formation group, made his first religious profession on 20 May 2025, offering himself wholly to the Lord and to the Church through the vows of Chastity, Poverty, and Obedience.

The Eucharistic celebration, rich in spiritual depth and sacred symbolism, was presided over by Rev. Fr. Silvestre D’Souza, OCD, the Provincial Superior of the Karnataka-Goa Province. He was joined by the four Provincial Councillors and eleven friars whose gracious presence added dignity and joy to the occasion. The celebration witnessed the participation of Br. Ronal’s family members, the CSST Sisters of Kushalnagara, and numerous lay faithful and well-wishers of Tapovana.

In his deeply reflective homily, Fr. Provincial spoke about the dynamics of love between the Divine Bridegroom and the chosen soul. Drawing inspiration from Jesus’ question to Peter— “Do you love me?”—he emphasized that the Lord’s gaze rests not on the past with its shortcomings, but on the present love and the future commitment of the one He calls. It is this divine love that beckons and sustains a vocation.

Fr. Wilfred Frank beautifully animated the liturgy and served as the compère for the felicitation programme that followed the Mass. A spirit of reverence and devotion was further enhanced as the three novices joined their voices in harmonious praise, creating an atmosphere of prayer and worship.

Fr. Vinod Lobo captured the sacred moments through his lens, preserving the beauty and memory of the day. Br. Ronal, deeply moved, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to all who had supported and accompanied him on his journey of formation. Fr. Provincial warmly congratulated Br. Ronal and extended his sincere thanks to his parents for offering their son to the Carmelite Order.

Fr. Joseph D’Souza, OCD, the Superior of Tapovana, delivered a gracious vote of thanks, while Fr. Joachim Rodrigues, Provincial Councillor, led the prayer before the festive agape meal. The day concluded with joyful fellowship, united hearts, and grateful souls.

Indeed, this celebration was not just a ceremony but a divine encounter—a moment when a young heart responded to the Lord’s timeless question: “Do you love me?”—with a courageous and resounding “Yes.”