Called to Carmel: Celebrating Vocation Sunday
On Sunday, 20 September 2026, the Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Community, OCDS, Margao, gathered for their monthly Fraternity Meeting, making the occasion a special celebration of Vocation Sunday and a joyful opportunity to promote the call to the Secular Carmel.

The meeting began in the Chapel with a creative Marian Rosary, followed by the praying of Evening Prayer from the Breviary. A 15-minute period of silent meditation was then led by Rev. Fr. Jeevan Tauro, inviting members to gaze upon the Crucifix and deepen their awareness of God’s loving presence.

The community then gathered in the hall for formation session, fellowship and birthday celebrations.

Growing in Faith: Meaningful formation sessions were also conducted by some of the members, exploring the Sacraments of Baptism and Confirmation. Members were invited to reflect on these foundational Sacraments and their call to live consciously as children of God, strengthened by the Holy Spirit to witness to Christ in their daily lives.

Sharing the Call to Carmel: As we celebrated Vocation Sunday, the community took the opportunity to reflect on the beauty of a vocation and to encourage others to listen for God’s call in their own lives.Three members of the community — Louise Fernandes, Inez Fernandes and Elvina Saldanha— shared their personal testimonies of how they were drawn to the Secular Order of Discalced Carmelites (OCDS). Through their stories, they spoke of their individual journeys of faith, how God gradually led them towards Carmel, and how their OCDS vocation has enriched their prayer life, deepened their relationship with Christ and helped them discover a greater sense of purpose and belonging. Their testimonies served as a simple yet powerful reminder that vocation is God’s invitation, and every calling begins with a heart willing to listen and respond.

Birthday Celebrations: September birthday celebrants were joyfully honoured with prayers, songs and the cutting of the birthday cake. The celebrants generously sponsored the tea and snacks, adding to the spirit of family and togetherness.

The meeting was a beautiful blend of prayer, formation, fellowship and vocation awareness — reminding us that the call to Carmel is ultimately a call to draw closer to Christ and, in turn, to help others discover Him.

“Come and See… and listen to the call of Carmel.”