Ordination of a Fourth Priest from Gujarati soil
On February 19, 2023, Fr Rakesh Parmar was ordained as a priest by His Grace Archbishop Emeritus Most Rev. Stanislaus Fernandes, Apostolic Administrator, Diocese of Baroda. The ordination ceremony was held at Gorwa's Infant Jesus Church. It was a spiritual celebration, with many Carmelites, diocesan priests, family, friends, and well-wishers in attendance to witness this significant milestone in Fr Rakesh's life.

The archbishop presided over the entire ceremony and delivered a homily on the importance of the priesthood and the role of priests in serving God and the community. Concelebrants included Rev. Fr George Santhumayor, Provincial Superior, and other Carmelite priests from the Province's various communities, as well as religious and diocesan priests from the Diocese. The archbishop anointed Fr Rakesh with holy oil as a symbol of his anointment as God's servant. He was dressed in the stole and chasuble by Fr Rudolph Pinto, two important symbols of the priestly office, as part of the ceremony. The Ordination liturgy was animated by Fr Jignesh Solanki.

Fr Rakesh proposed the vote of thanks at the end of the mass and commended the Carmelite family, benefactors, family members, and everyone who had played a significant role in his priestly formation. The Priestly Ordination was an emotional and memorable day for everyone who attended, as it marked the beginning of a new chapter in Rakesh's life as a priest. The KG Province congratulates Fr Rakesh on being the fourth priest from Gujarat and wishes him God's richest blessings as he continues Christ's mission as a Carmelite.