Possessed by God: Sr. Nirmala's Definitive YES to the LORD
October 12, 2024, marked a momentous and joyous occasion at the Cloistered Carmel of St. Joseph and St. Teresa in Bogadi, Mysore, as Sr. Nirmala of Mary Immaculate made her solemn profession. The day’s celebration began at 11:00 a.m. with a Eucharistic celebration presided over by Rev. Fr. Silvestre D’Souza, Provincial of the Karnataka-Goa Province. He was joined by 17 concelebrants, including Fr. Archibald Gonsalves, Provincial Councillor, and Fr. Charles Serrao, Religious Assistant to the Cloistered Nuns, alongside Carmelites, Capuchins, and other religious from nearby communities, as well as priests from St. Peter’s Seminary.

In his homily, Fr. Provincial reflected on the theme chosen by Sr. Nirmala: "To possess God and to be possessed by God." He drew on everyday experiences and Scripture to illustrate this profound theme, capturing the depth of Sr. Nirmala’s commitment. Following the homily, the Litany of Carmelite Saints was sung as Sr. Nirmala prostrated herself, symbolizing her total surrender to Christ. She then pronounced her solemn vows before Rev. Sr. Arokia of the Holy Spirit, Mother Prioress of the Mysore Carmel.

The liturgy was beautifully animated by the harmonious choir led by Fr. Prashanth and the Capuchin Philosophy brothers from Kripalaya. Fr. Wilfred Rodrigues, Dean of Pushpashrama, provided guidance throughout the ceremony, adding depth and reverence to the proceedings. Toward the end, Fr. Archibald Gonsalves expressed words of gratitude on behalf of the province, offering congratulations to Sr. Nirmala for her courageous and joyful commitment.

Sr. Nirmala also expressed deep gratitude to all those who played a role in making the day memorable. The celebration was graced by her immediate family, including her parents, sisters, and cousins, as well as neighbouring religious nuns and well-wishers of the Carmel. A fellowship meal followed the Mass, bringing the community together in joyful communion.

The Karnataka-Goa Province extends its warmest congratulations to Sr. Nirmala for her definitive "yes" to Jesus, and continues to pray for God's abundant blessings and the intercession of our Blessed Mother as she embarks on her life as a cloistered Carmelite nun - "To possess God and to be possessed by God."