A New Chapter in the Carmelite Journey – Most Holy Trinity Community, OCDS, Chicalim
A Day of Joy, Gratitude and New Beginnings
Sunday Aug 23,2026, marked a truly joyful and significant milestone in the journey of the Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Community, OCDS, Margao, as they witnessed the growth of the Carmelite family through the formal beginning of the Most Holy Trinity Community, OCDS, Chicalim.
The vision to establish a new OCDS community in Chicalim was initiated by Rev. Fr. Lancy Mendonca, OCD, who had the foresight and desire to see the Carmelite spirit take root and flourish in a new place. What began as a vision gradually became a reality through the dedication, perseverance and prayerful efforts of Rev. Fr. Diogo Proença, OCD, together with members of the Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Community who accompanied and supported the group throughout the past year.
After a year of commitment, formation and perseverance, it was with immense joy and gratitude that we witnessed eight members from Chicalim being formally admitted into Aspirancy: Gladya Farias, Joy Downie, Clarita Alfonso, Nina Joshy, Jeanette Rodrigues, Mary Barbara, Beverly Pereira and Eugene Pereira.
A Spiritually Enriching Recollection
The celebrations began with a spiritually enriching Recollection led by Rev. Fr. Jeevan Tauro, OCD, Spiritual Assistant. The recollection began with a moving hymn invoking the Holy Spirit, followed by the proclamation of the Word of God. The reflection on Matthew 19:16–26, the encounter of Jesus with the Rich Young Man, invited members to examine their own response to Christ's call and the importance of detachment, surrender and wholehearted discipleship.
Admittance into Aspirancy
Following the recollection, the community witnessed the Admittance Ceremony into Aspirancy. With great joy, the eight members from Chicalim were called forward and formally welcomed into the initial stage of their OCDS formation. Each aspirant received the Carmelite Emblem, presented by Sr. Elizabeth Santos, OCDS, President, together with Rev. Fr. Jeevan Tauro, OCD, Spiritual Assistant. The emblem serves as a visible reminder of their new journey and their desire to grow in the Carmelite spirit under the guidance and protection of Our Lady of Mount Carmel.
The day also brought a special moment of grace for their own community member, Rita Da Costa, who was admitted into the Novitiate and received the blessed ceremonial Scapular.
A Celebration of Community and Fellowship
The day concluded in an atmosphere of joy and fraternity with fellowship among the members of both communities. The gathering also included a birthday celebration for Mary Barbara, who has just begun her own journey as an Aspirant. May the words of St. Teresa of Avila continue to inspire both communities: “Christ has no body now, but yours.”
From one community, a new community has been born; from one vision, a new journey has begun. Deo Gratias!
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