THREE CARMELITES ASCEND GOD'S ALTAR

“Whatever God prefers and chooses for me – that is what I like best. It is what he does that I love.” This quote is true in the life of all of us. Everyone receives a call and occasionally some he also calls to be vicars on earth – He calls them Priest of his own heart! The Carmelite Order, specifically the Karnataka-Goa Province was blessed this year to receive three priests into its field! These chosen ones are Fr. Melwin Lasrado, Fr. Nikesh D’Souza and Fr. Kiran Lobo. Having undergone a demanding yet sincere formation of 13 years, the elders of the Province with the due approval of the local Bishop saw them fit candidates for Priesthood. And thus they were ordained!

On the 1st of February, they were ordained as priests at the Infant Jesus Shrine, Mangalore by His Excellency Rev. Dr. Peter Paul Saldanha, the Bishop of Mangalore during the mass at 10 AM. The shrine was filled with the family, friends, and well-wishers of the ordinandi. In the presence of 78 priests from the province, diocese, and other congregations, the Bishop anointed them with the Holy Oil. During the Homily, the Bishop underscored the specific role of the priest and how his life is modelled after the Supreme High Priest, Jesus Christ! After being ordained priests, the new priests blessed the congregation and brought immense joy to the entire Church of God! General Definitor of the Carmelite Order Fr. Pius James D’Souza and Provincial Superior Fr. George Santhumayor along with Fr. Charles Serrao, the Superior of St. Joseph’s Monastery greeted the priests with the Kiss of Peace. The Carmel Choir lent their melodious voices with the congregation in praise to the Lord and the commentary for the mass was done by Fr. Rudolph Pinto.

After the mass, Fr. Melwin on behalf of the ordained priests thanked all of those responsible for their ascent to the Altar. Fr. George Santhumayor thanked the Bishop for accepting to ordain these shepherds and also the parents for gifting their sons to the Order. The Bishop also spoke words of praise and wished blessings and grace on the new priests. Thus, the solemn mass came to a conclusion at 12:15 PM after which the people were escorted to lunch!