Feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel celebrated at Infant Jesus Shrine
The Carmelites of Infant Jesus Shrine commemorated the feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, also known as the Scapular Feast, on Sunday, July 16, 2023. As a religious order that values their spiritual legacy as promoters of the Scapular devotion, the Carmelites organized a nine-day novena in honour of the Blessed Virgin.

During the novena, priests delivered reflections on various themes to foster spiritual growth and prepare for the feast. Carmelite priests conducted three masses each day of the novena, accompanied by enlightening homilies that highlighted Mary's guidance and support to humanity throughout history, including her role with apostles, the Church, migrants, youth, and the persecuted.

On the feast day, a Solemn Mass was celebrated by Fr Richard Aloysius Coelho, Director of Fr Muller Institutions, and co-celebrated by Fr Melvin D'Cunha, the Superior of St Joseph's Monastery, Fr Stifan Perera, the Director of Infant Jesus Shrine, Fr Deep Fernandes, the Master of Theology Students, and other priests. Fr. Richard delivered a thought-provoking sermon on the theme "Mary's Accompaniment: A Great Boon to Humankind," emphasizing Mary's integral role in Christ's redemptive mission and her continued assistance to humanity.

A large number of faithful gathered to celebrate the feast, adding to the joyous atmosphere, which was further elevated by the presence of numerous priests and religious. The Scapular, a symbol of Mary's protection and the cherished emblem of the Carmelite Order was distributed to all attendees. The entire Shrine campus was filled with a festive spirit as the celebrations unfolded.