Twelve Carmelite Novices Make First Profession in Karnataka

Kushalnagar, Karnataka, 1 May, 2025: Twelve novices of the Discalced Carmelite Order from the Karnataka-Goa Province made their First Profession of religious vows in a solemn Eucharistic celebration at Tapovana, the Novitiate House of the Province.

The celebration was presided over by Fr. Silvestre D’Souza OCD, Provincial Superior, and concelebrated by Provincial Councillors Fr. Archibald Gonsalves OCD, Fr. Prakash D’Cunha OCD, and Fr. Alphonse Britto OCD. Also present were Fr. Joseph D’Souza OCD, Superior of the Novitiate House, and Fr. Alfred Menezes OCD, Novice Master, along with several other priests.

The novices professed vows of Chastity, Poverty, and Obedience, which were received by Fr. Silvestre D’Souza. In his homily, themed “I give myself to you forever,” Fr. D’Souza reflected on the permanence of religious life and the call to deep union with Christ. He reminded the congregation that their mission transcends this earthly life.

Carmelites celebrate centenary of St. Therese of Child Jesus’ canonisation in this Jubilee year. St. Thérèse, known as the “Little Flower,” was canonised on May 17, 1925, by Pope Pius XI and remains one of the most beloved saints in the Church. Recalling her spiritual legacy, Fr. D’Souza shared insights from her personal writings—a symbolic wedding invitation and a heartfelt letter carried close to her heart on the day of her profession.

Emphasising the importance of family in nurturing vocations, he cited the example of Saints Louis and Zélie Martin, St. Thérèse’s parents and the Church’s first canonised couple. “Vocation comes from the family and grows in the family,” he said, expressing gratitude to the novices’ parents.

The celebration coincided with the feast of St. Joseph, whose example was highlighted as a model of faith and dedication. Fr. D’Souza encouraged the newly professed, saying, “Today, you are embracing the Carmelite family. We welcome you with open hearts.”

The newly professed were: Br. Rishal, Br. Aiqwin, Br. Denzil, Br. Melroy, Br. Nihal, Br. Royson, Br. Elroy, Br. Sohan, Br. Cleave, Br. Leroy, Br. Jackson, and Br. Ashwin.

Fr. Santhosh Menezes OCD served as the liturgical commentator, while philosophy brothers led the singing. Br. Aren and Br. Ashwin offered words of gratitude, and Fr. Wilfred Frank OCD anchored the felicitation ceremony. The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Fr. Joseph D’Souza OCD.

By Br. Malvino Alfonso OCD