Six OCDS Members Make Temporary Profession at Carmel Ashram, Katkere
Six members of the Infant Jesus Community of Koteshwar made their Temporary Promise in the Secular Order of Discalced Carmelites (OCDS) during a solemn Eucharistic celebration held at Carmel Ashram, Katkere, on Sunday, December 14, 2025, at 5.00 pm.

The members who made their temporary profession are Wineetha Almeida of St Thérèse of Lisieux, Lenny Crasta of St Mariam Baouardy, Voilet D’Sa of Saints Louis and Zélie Martin, Irene Monteiro of St Teresa of Avila, Geetha Rasquinha of St John of the Cross, and Roshny D’Silva of St Thérèse of Lisieux.

Rev. Fr Deep Fernandes, OCD, Delegate Provincial of the Karnataka–Goa Province, received the vows on behalf of the Order. In his homily and instruction, he invited the newly professed members to embrace a truly contemplative way of life within their family and professional contexts, drawing inspiration from the teachings of St John of the Cross. He emphasized that the Carmelite vocation in the secular state is a call to deep interior prayer, fidelity, and loving presence in everyday life.

The celebration was graced by the presence of Fr Joseph Cyril, Spiritual Assistant of the OCDS, Fr Praveen Pinto, OCD, Superior of Carmel Ashram, Katkere, and Fr Joe Tauro, OCD, who joined in prayer and encouragement of the members.

The Temporary Promise marks an important stage in the formation journey of OCDS members, as they commit themselves more deeply to living the Carmelite charism of prayer, community, and service while remaining rooted in their families and parishes. The occasion was one of thanksgiving and joy for the Infant Jesus Community of Koteshwar and the wider Carmelite family.