Induction to OCDS – St Teresa of Avila, OCDS Community, Mapusa, Goa
In a joyous celebration on 5th July 2026 two members of the Secular Discalced Carmelite Community (OCDS) of St. Teresa of Avila, Peddem, Mapusa, Goa made their Temporary Promises, two members entered the Initial Formation Stage I, and ten renewed their Temporary Promises.

During a solemn Eucharistic celebration held at 4:15 p.m. at the Carmelite Seminary, Mapusa, Mr. Louis Sebastian D’Souza and Mrs. Judith D’souza professed their Temporary Promise before the Delegate of Provincial, Rev. Fr. Silvestre D’souza and their Spiritual Assistant, Rev. Fr. Diogo Proença. On the same occasion, Mr. Charles Basil Pinho and Mrs. Priscilla Rose Pinho entered Initial Formation-I (Novitiate) and were vested with the Small Brown Scapulars.

In his homily, Fr. Silvestre D’Souza emphasized that in our spiritual journey, we should remain simple, humble, and teachable, casting our burdens on Jesus and trusting Him to take care of it. When faced with challenges he advised to respond with love because it makes every situation easier to endure.

The Mass was concelebrated by several priests, including Rev. Fr. Teodosio Fernandes, Superior of Mapusa, Rev Fr, Diogo Proenca, the Spiritual Assistant of St Teresa of Avila Community, Mapusa and Rev Fr. Jeevan Tauro Spiritual Assistant of Our Lady of Mt Carmel OCDS Community, Margao. Members of the Provincial Council, Mr. Roy Rodrigues and Mr. Sebastian Mendes, along with family, friends, and representatives from both the Margao groups, were present to witness this momentous occasion.

Following the Eucharist, the community hosted a simple yet meaningful fellowship gathering in the Seminary classroom, featuring a short program and refreshments, joyfully commemorating their journey in Carmel.