SECULAR CARMELITES CEREMONIES 2014
LOWER MAINLAND, VANCOUVER
Another
two memorable days for the Secular Carmelites of the
Lower Mainland Vancouver area occurred on October 18
and October 25, 2014.
On October 18th before the celebration of the Mass,
with Fr. Jerry D’Souza officiating, we witnessed the
investiture of three aspirants.
On Saturday, October 25th, the weather forecast
predicted a cold, rainy Saturday, but this did not
dampen the spirits of the Secular Carmelites as they
walked into a warm and brightly lit St. Edmund’s
Church for Mass and Profession ceremonies officiated
by Father Provincial Charles Serrao and Provincial
Delegate to the OCDS, Fr. Jerald D’Souza. Five
candidates made their First Promises and two
candidates made their Definitive Promises.
It was a delightful first ‘meeting’ with Fr.
Charles, who immediately captured our hearts when he
spoke of Mary’s complete trust, faith and love for
God, and charity and service to neighbor. In his
introduction to Father Provincial, Fr. Jerry spoke
of their early acquaintance from his childhood, as
both our Provincial’s and Fr. Jerry’s families were
neighbors. He also gave an inkling of Father
Provincial’s enormous responsibilities and the
extent of his travelling requirements, and yet he
remains simple, humble, and approachable and focused
on what is essential.
Molly Diaz, President of the Secretariat, welcomed
Father Provincial on behalf of the OCDS members and
expressed everyone’s great appreciation for his
presence. As well, she conveyed the Secular
Carmelites’ gratitude and appreciation to Fr. Jerry
for his love and service to the OCDS. Everyone
enjoyed the potluck brunch with the ever ready
assistance of the ladies of the Catholic Women’s
League.
To the delight of everyone present, Father
Provincial spent the rest of the morning sharing his
experience in Rome and responding to questions. We
look forward to his 2015 visit for the 5th Centenary
celebrations of St. Teresa of Avila and the
inauguration of the Little Flower Formation House.
Click here for more photographs
