Feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Celebrated in Goa

Margao, Goa, July 16, 2025: The feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel was celebrated on 16th July at the Carmelite Monastery, Margao. Fr. Joaquim Rebelo sfx, Provincial Superior of the Goa Province of the Society of Pilar, was the main celebrant. Fr. Joaquim Rodrigues OCD, Provincial Councillor of the Carmelites; Fr. Ashley Alphonso, Spiritual Director of the Patriarchal Seminary of Rachol; Fr. Marlon Rodrigues OCD, Superior of the Carmelite Monastery; Fr. Amandio Valadares, Parish Priest of Holy Spirit Church, Margao; and other priests concelebrated the Eucharistic celebration.

Delivering the homily on the theme “Blessed Virgin Mary: Mother of Hope,” Fr. Joaquim Rebelo reflected on the role of Mary as a beacon of hope in today’s world. “Our Lady is a beacon of hope, defending her children and securing their place within the Church through her constant intercession,” said Fr. Joaquim Rebelo. Stressing the role of Mother Mary as guide, intercessor, and protector, Fr. Joaquim Rebelo appealed to the faithful to show openness to grow in faith and thus become a beacon of hope. “Mother Mary shows us the way to Christ,” Fr. Joaquim said.

Reflecting on the devotion of the Brown Scapular associated with the feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, he said that the Scapular of Mother Mary is not a magical charm, but invites us to imitate the virtues of Mother Mary and bear witness to Jesus. “The Scapular calls us to deepen our prayer life, seek God’s will in daily life, and help others in their need,” said Fr. Joaquim.

The liturgical singing was led by the Carmel Choir. Fr. Marlon Rodrigues thanked all those present for their support and participation. On this occasion, members of the Secular Carmelites renewed their promises.

Fr. Santosh Menezes OCD and Fr. Anthony D’Souza OCD presided over two morning Masses held at the monastery.

During the novena, reflections on various themes drawn from the Pastoral Letter (2025-2026) of Archbishop Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrão, titled “Hope Does Not Disappoint Us,” were preached by Fr. Macson Fernandes, Fr. Edson Fernandes, Fr. Mariano D’Costa, Fr. Elvis Dias, Fr. Tony Fernandes SFX, Fr Michael Pereira SVD, Fr. Simon D’Cunha, Fr. Franky Fernandes, and Fr. Slater Alemao.

Fr. Ronald D’Souza OCD, Superior of the Carmelite Seminary, Mapusa, was the main celebrant for the festal Mass at the Cloistered Carmel Monastery, Chicalim. Other Carmelite communities also celebrated the feast of their patroness.

By Bro. Malvino

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