Ballok
Jesu Kutam Visits Riya Foundation on Decennial Celebration
Mangaluru,
Nov 17, 2024: Marking its Decennial Celebration, Ballok Jesu Kutam paid a visit
to Riya Foundation on Sunday, November 17, 2024. The members spent quality time
with the residents, engaging in heartfelt conversations and playful
interactions. As a gesture of support, the Kutam donated 5 table fans, 5
pedestal fans, 5 hanging fans, and 150 kilograms of rice to the Foundation. The
contribution aimed to enhance the living conditions of the residents.Fr. Stifan
Perera, OCD Shrine Director, lauded the Riya Foundation for its invaluable work
in caring for individuals with intellectual disabilities. He praised the
organization for creating a nurturing environment and commended Ballok Jesu
Kutam for their generosity and commitment to social service. During the visit,
the Kutam members gained deeper insights into the Foundation's work, clearing
doubts and learning about the challenges faced by those with special needs. Riya
Foundation, a Public Charitable Trust in Mangaluru, is dedicated to empowering
individuals with intellectual disabilities. It provides comprehensive care,
nutritious food, health support, and skills training, particularly for those
from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. The Foundation's vision is "to
ensure every person with special needs is given an equal opportunity to live
life to the fullest in their capacity," with a mission "to understand the
potential of persons with special needs, empower them to add value to society,
and enable them to live a complete, happy life." The visit underscored the
importance of community collaboration in fostering inclusion and support for
individuals with special needs.
General
Delegate of OCDS Visits the Shrine
Rev
Fr Ramiro Casale, the General Delegate of OCDS visited the Infant Jesus Shrine
on Nov 15, 2024. He was welcomed by Rev Fr Melvin DCunha, the Superior of St
Joseph' Moanstery and Fr Stifan Perera, the Director of the Shrine. Fr Ramiro is
on a pastoral visitation to the Karnataka Goa Province of the Carmelties to
visit all the Secular Carmelite communities in the Province. When he was here
participated in the Dcennial celebrations of the Ballok Jesu Kutam, interacted
with the Secular Carmelite Comunintes at the Shrine, Bajjodi Church, Kanakanaday
Carmel and Ryshivana-Ranipua. Fr. Ramiro was born in the city of Zacatecas,
Mexico, on 28 June 1971. He studied Company Administration in his native city
and worked in areas of management and finance. He entered the OCD Order on 15
July 2001 in the California-Arizona Province, U.S.A., making his First
Profession on 2 February 2003. He studied at the Mount Angel Seminary in the
State of Oregon and obtained a Licence in Philosophy and Letters and a Master’s
Degree in Theology and Divinity. He also studied Theology at the Theological
Faculty of the Teresianum in Rome and was awarded a Doctorate in Psychology by
the Salesian Pontifical University, Rome. Fr. Ramiro made his Solemn Profession
in Rome, 14 December 2007, and was ordained priest in Alhambra, California, on
20 June 2009. He served as Director of the Carmelite Institute of Spirituality
in Stanwood, Washington and was also Master of Postulants, Novices and Students.
In October 2021, he was appointed General Delegate for the Discalced Carmelite
Secular Order (OCDS).
Ballok
Jesu Kutam Decennial Celebrations
Mangaluru, Nov 17, 2024 – Ballok Jesu Kutam marked its decennial celebrations at
the Infant Jesus Shrine, Bikarnakatte, with great devotion and joy. The event
commenced with a solemn Eucharistic celebration presided over by Rev. Fr. Joe
Tauro, the founder of Ballok Jesu Kutam. Rev. Fr. Stifan Perera, Director of the
Infant Jesus Shrine, delivered a profound homily, urging the faithful and the
members of Ballok Jesu Kutam to embrace the spirituality of the Infant Jesus,
characterized by humility and the essence of being "Emmanuel – God with us." He
encouraged them to serve the Shrine and its community with a sense of God's
presence and genuine love for others. Concelebrating the Eucharist were Rev. Fr.
Melvin D’Cunha, Superior of St. Joseph’s Monastery; Rev. Fr. Prakash D’Cunha,
former Director; and Rev. Fr. Cyril Menezes. Following the Eucharistic
celebration, a cultural program was held, where Mr. William D’Costa, Vice
President of the Kutam, extended a warm welcome to the gathering. Mrs. Rose Mary
presented a brief report, highlighting the key milestones and achievements of
the Kutam over the past decade. The members showcased their diverse talents
through an array of cultural performances. The program was skillfully compered
by Mrs. Dolphy D’Souza. Rev. Fr. Romero Kasale, Definitor General of the
Carmelite Order, who was on a visitation, graced the occasion and addressed the
gathering. He encouraged the members to continue serving the Shrine and its
devotees as a blessing, reflecting the true spirit of service taught by Jesus.
Free
Cancer Screening & General Health Check - Up Camp Organised at Infant Jesus
Shrine Hall, Carmel Hill Mangaluru
The
Infant Jesus Shrine, Bikarnakatte, Mangaluru, the OCDS unit of St. Teresa of
Avila Community, Bikarnakatte, Mangaluru and the Indian Cancer Society,
Mangaluru in collaboration with Father Mullers Medical College Hospital,
Mangaluru, organized a Free Cancer Screening and General Health Check-Up Camp at
the Shrine Carmel Hill Hall, Bikarnakatte, Mangaluru on 31st October 2024.
Registration began at 8:15 am by the OCDS members. The inaugural program was
presided over by Rev. Fr. Melvin D’Cunha, OCD, Superior of St. Joseph’s
Monastery, Bikarnakatte, Mangaluru. Ms. Raina J. Mascarenhas, NSG, Dr. Kumar S.
Vashist, and Dr. Anoop Joseph were the guests of honor. The camp was initiated
by Rev. Fr. Ivan D’Souza, with active support from the OCDS President, Mr.
Herold Gratian D’Souza, and all OCDS community members. The event concluded at
1.40pm, benefiting 173 attendees. The OCDS unit co-operated to ensure the camp’s
success, with publicity conducted during the Novena Masses for over two weeks
prior to the Camp. The camp's primary focus was Cancer Screening and General
Health Checkup for various types of cancer. A comprehensive team was available
to address additional health concerns, with specialized departments in General
Medicine (for general health issues), Ophthalmology (for eye-related concerns),
Optometry (for vision testing), Speech and Hearing (for individuals of all
ages), Obstetrics and Gynecology (for women’s health), and specific tests like
the breast cancer & Pap Smear test. Medication was also provided to attendees.
The program was compered by Dr. Laveena D'Mello, OCDS.
OASIS
2024: A Two-Day Charismatic Convention Draws Thousands at Infant Jesus Shrine,
Mangaluru
Mangaluru,
October 12, 2024 – The OASIS 2024, a two-day charismatic convention, was
successfully held at the Infant Jesus Shrine in Bikarnakatte, Mangaluru, from
October 11-12, 2024. A large number of faithful gathered at the event,
reaffirming the Shrine’s significance as a spiritual oasis – a spring of grace
for the thirsty soul. The convention focused on the Seven Sacraments instituted
by Jesus Christ. Rev. Fr. Gregory D'Souza, the second senior-most member of the
Carmelites, inaugurated the event on October 11 by incensing the Bible which was
brought in a solemn procession, and inviting the faithful to delve deeper into
the mystery of the Sacraments, through which the grace of God flows into the
hearts of believers. Br. Prakash D'Souza, his Divine Mercy Youth Team from
Bandra and Rev Fr Siltan Noronha led the congregation in praise and worship with
hymns and action songs, helping participants lift their hearts to God. The
Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament held at 3:00 PM on both the days drew an
impressive online audience of 45,000, joining in from various parts of the
world. On the first day, October 11, Rev. Fr. Rudolph Pinto, OCD the newly
appointed CCBI Secretary for Liturgy Commission, inaugurated Carmel Preran, the
Bible diary for the year 2025 in Konkani. He then delivered a powerful
reflection on the theme From Sin to Salvation: The Paschal Mystery and Rebirth
in Baptism. Later, Rev. Fr. John Sequeira, OCD, celebrated the Holy Eucharist
and delivered a homily on From Ritual to Relationship: The Eucharist that Shapes
Our Relationships and Choices. In the afternoon, Fr. Boniface Pinto spoke on
From Fear to Fortitude: The Sacrament of Confirmation and the Gifts and Fruits
of the Holy Spirit, offering a meaningful exploration of the sacrament’s impact
on Christian life.
Carmelite
Brother Gregory Menezes, OCD, laid to rest on Feast of St. Therese of Lisieux
Mangaluru,
October 1, 2024. The mortal remains of Br. Gregory Menezes, OCD, were laid to
rest at the Infant Jesus Shrine, Bikarnakatte, Mangaluru, on October 1, the
feast day of St. Therese of Lisieux, also known as the Little Flower. The
remains were received at the Shrine at 2:30 p.m., followed by the recitation of
the Divine Mercy Chaplet and the Divine Office for the Dead. At 3:00 p.m., Rt.
Rev. Peter Paul Saldanha, Bishop of Mangalore, paid his respects. The
Eucharistic celebration, presided over by Rt. Rev. Aloysius Paul D'Souza, Bishop
Emeritus, began at 3:30 p.m. Rev. Fr. John Sequeira, OCD, delivered a moving
homily, emphasizing the three key aspects of St. Therese of Lisieux's
spirituality, which were mirrored in the life of Br. Gregory, fondly known as
"Giga Brother." Fr. Gregory D'Souza, OCD, the senior-most Mangalorean in the
province, delivered the obituary, highlighting Br. Gregory’s exemplary life.
Following this, twelve chosen representatives placed candles, lit from the
Paschal Candle, around the coffin, symbolizing Christ as the light of the world
and Br. Gregory's transition from darkness to eternal light. Mr. Cyprian Pinto,
a family member, expressed gratitude to the Carmelites for their care of Br.
Gregory. Fr. Silvestre D'Souza, the Provincial Superior, spoke of the valuable
contributions of lay brothers like Br. Gregory to the Carmelite monasteries.
Sisters
of the Helpers of Mount Rosary Prepare for Perpetual Profession with
Thanksgiving Eucharist
On
October 3, 2024, the Sisters of the Helpers of Mount Rosary Alangar, in
preparation for their Perpetual Profession on October 7, 2024, offered a
heartfelt thanksgiving to Infant Jesus. The Eucharistic celebration was presided
over by Rt. Rev. Deepak Valerian Tauro, Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of
Delhi. At the conclusion of the Mass, each Sister was honored with a bouquet of
flowers and a statue of the Infant Jesus, presented by Bishop Deepak and Fr.
Melvin D'Cunha, Superior of the Monastery. The Sisters preparing for their Perpetual Profession are:
Sr. Akshatha D'Souza, daughter of Itorik and the late Sunitha D'Souza from
Bhatkal
Sr. Pramila D'Souza, daughter of Felix and the late Josephine D'Souza from
Manela
Sr. Preethi Rodrigues, daughter of Paul and Nathalia Rodrigues from Siddakatte
Sr. Rishma Joyce, daughter of George and Regina from Bengaluru
Sr. Sushmitha Lobo, daughter of Patrick and Magdalene Lobo from Bhatkal
Sr. Preethi Rodrigues shared her inspiring vocation story, reflecting on how God
called her to religious life and how she responded to join the Congregation. She
expressed her gratitude to the Bishop for blessing them, to the Carmelite
Fathers for organizing the Thanksgiving Mass, and to the congregation for their
prayers.
MLC Ivan D'Souza visited the Shrine on
Saturday Sept 28, 2024, where Rev Fr Stifan Perera, the Shrine Director
submitted a written request to concretise the road leading to the
Shrine. He assured us that he would take the necessary steps to address
our request as soon as possible.
Novem
with Shrine Staff and Volunteers
The
members of various associations serving at the Infant Jesus Shrine gathered for
the Novem Jevnche program on September 8, 2024.Novem Jevnche is part of the
Monti Fest celebration in the Canara Konkan region, where families come together
for a communal meal. Traditionally, newly harvested paddy is brought to the
church, blessed by the priest during Mass, and then mixed with payasam or milk,
which is shared among the people. Following this, everyone enjoys a vegetarian
meal as a symbol of unity and love. At the Shrine, several associations that
offer their services, including Ballok Jesu Kutam, Infant Jesus Auto Drivers
Welfare Association, Infant Jesus Jevan Samithi, Carmel Soldiers, and Secular
Carmel, participated in the event. They were joined by the Shrine's supporting
staff. This was the first time all these associations came together for such a
program. Fr. Stifan Perera, the Shrine Director, welcomed everyone, while Fr.
Melvin D'Cunha, the Superior of St. Joseph's Monastery, encouraged all to work
in unity during his address before blessing the Novem. Mrs. Flavy Mascarenhas
expressed her gratitude to the participants, and Mr. Dolphy D'Souza skillfully
compered the program. The gathering concluded with everyone enjoying payasam,
holige, and chicken puffs.
Fr
Rudolph Pinto appointed secretary for the CCBI commission for liturgy
Bengaluru,
Sep 11: Fr Rudolph Raj Pinto, OCD (48), a member of the Karnataka province of
the Order of Discalced Carmelites (OCD), has been appointed as the new secretary
of the CCBI commission for liturgy. The appointment was made during the
executive committee meeting of the CCBI held on September 10-11, in Bengaluru.
Fr Rudolph is highly qualified, holding an MSc in counselling psychology from
the University of Madras, a Licentiate, and a doctorate in liturgy from the
Pontifical Athenaeum of Sant’ Anselmo, Rome. Additionally, he holds a licentiate
in liturgical music from the same institution. His scholarly work includes a
Licentiate thesis titled ‘The Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion: Its
Historical and Theological Perspectives’, and a liturgical music thesis titled
‘One Rite but Many Expressions: A Study of the Musical-Liturgical Treasury of
Vocal Diversity in the Communion Rite of Missale Romanum 2002’. His doctoral
thesis, ‘Munus Musicae Sacrae Ministeriale in Dominico Servitio’, explores the
ministerial role of liturgical music in the liturgical formation, with a focus
on applying Vatican II musical reforms to multicultural communities.
Monti
Fest celebrated with devotion and fervor at Infant Jesus Shrine
The
Infant Jesus Shrine at Carmel Hill, Bikarnakatte-Mangaluru, celebrated the
Nativity of Our Blessed Mary, commonly known as Monti Fest, with great devotion
and fervor on Sept 8, 2024. The festival was marked by a series of events,
including a Main Festal Mass, blessing of new corn, and the release of a new
book. The Main Festal Mass was presided over by Rev. Fr. Melvin D'Cuna, Superior
of St. Joseph's Monastery, while Rev. Fr. Walter D'Souza delivered a meaningful
homily. Fr. Stifan Perera, Director of the Shrine, expressed gratitude to all.
In a symbolic gesture, Fr. Deep Fernandes blessed the paddy grains, which were
then distributed to devotees after the Mass. Children in colorful attire offered
flowers to Our Lady, adding to the festive atmosphere. During the celebration,
Rev. Fr. Rudolph D'Souza's book, 'Pitisponacha Sansarant Ujawd' (Light into the
World of Superstition), was released. Fr. Arun Lobo blessed the new paddy
grains, known as Novem, which were later mixed with Payasam and served to all.
Sugar cane, a special mark of the feast, was also distributed. Notable attendee
MLC Ivan D'Souza visited the Shrine to pray and seek blessings. The Monti Fest
celebration was preceded by nine days of prayer, during which devotees gathered
at the Grotto to pray the Rosary, led by children. The Brothers at the Monastery
offered reflections on the fruits of the Holy Spirit in Mary's life. Devotees
brought useful grocery items and flowers, which will be distributed to local
orphanages and Ashrams. The festival was a testament to the devotion and faith
of the community, and the Shrine's commitment to spreading love and compassion.
Anil
John Sequeira youngest Civil Judge felicitated
The
Infant Jesus Shrine in Bikarnakatte, Mangaluru, felicitated Anil John Sequeira
on Sept 5, 2024 for his remarkable achievement in passing the Karnataka Civil
Judge Examination 2023, including the preliminary, mains, and interview stages,
at the young age of 25. This accomplishment has made him Karnataka's youngest
civil judge (judicial magistrate) as of September 5, 2024. Anil John Sequeira, a
native of Borimar village in Bantwal taluk, has been selected for the post of
Civil Judge through direct recruitment under the Karnataka Judicial Services
(Recruitment) Rules. He is one of the 33 candidates selected for the post of
Civil Judge, ranked according to the merit list based on marks secured in the
Competitive Written Examination held in November 2023 and the subsequent
viva-voce. Anil, an LLB graduate from SDM Law College, Mangaluru, expressed his
joy in fulfilling his father’s dream. “My father wanted me to be a judge, and it
was also my aim to achieve that coveted position,” said Anil. His father,
Everest Sequeira, is an agriculturist, and his mother, Ivy Sequeira, is a
homemaker. Anil is the youngest of three siblings, with an elder brother, Ashwin,
and a sister, Ashna. Anil has consistently excelled academically throughout his
educational journey, which began at St Joseph Higher Primary School in Borimar,
continued at Karnataka High School, Mani, and St Philomena PU College, Puttur,
for his pre-university education. He took a break from practice to prepare for
the examination over the past two years, clearing it on his second attempt.
Day
of the grandparents and elderly celebrated at Infant Jesus Shrine
The
Infant Jesus Shrine in Mangaluru hosted a special Eucharistic celebration
dedicated to grandparents and the elderly on July 25, 2024. This significant
event aimed to honor and recognize the invaluable contributions of the elderly
within families and the broader society. The main Mass at 10.30 am was
celebrated by Fr. Boniface Pinto, a revered priest known for his deep spiritual
insights and pastoral care. During his homily, Fr. Pinto emphasized the critical
role that the elderly play in nurturing family values and fostering societal
cohesion. He spoke passionately about the wisdom and experience that older
generations bring, highlighting how their life stories and teachings serve as a
foundation for younger family members. Fr. Pinto encouraged the congregation to
cherish and respect the elderly, reminding everyone that they are living
repositories of tradition, culture, and faith. He pointed out that in a rapidly
changing world, the elderly provide stability and continuity, ensuring that
important values and practices are passed down through generations. Fr Boniface
serves as the spiritual director of Divya Dham, Karantaka Regional Seminary at
Moodubelle-Udupi. A special prayer service was held after each Novena Prayer. On
a Thursday there are nine Euchartistc celebrations at the Shine. The Catholic
Church celebrates the World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly each year on
the Sunday closest to the feast of Sts. Joachim and Anne, Jesus' grandparents.
Infant
Jesus Shrine sponsors Mercy Care Trust's Educare Scholarships
Infant
Jesus Shrine, Bikarnakatte - Mangaluru joined hands with Mercy Care Charitable
Trust in distributing scholarships to 25 needy children. The program combined
with sapling distribution was organised on Sunday July 21 at St Joseph's Higher
Primary School, Fajir. Mercy Care Charitable Trust president Maxim Fernandes,
Infant Jesus Shrine director Fr Stifan Perera, Carmelite, Felix D'Souza,
co-teacher of St Joseph's Higher Primary School, Fajir were on the stage. "Mercy
Care Charitable Trust born in December 2023 has achieved remarkable success in a
short span of seven months. We feel honoured to see the Trust has taken up
building a house to a needy family which is reaching its completion, rain
harvesting, tree plantation and many other people and nature friendly projects.
When the Trust planned a programme like educating poor children, we thought of
sponsoring the entire Program on our behalf. When we asked our well-wishers
about this, we got full cooperation from them. We are involved in this work. It
is our pride," said Rev Fr Stifan Perera, Carmelite. "When we seek help from the
people, the donors do not abandon us. We have received the full cooperation of
the people for our good works. When we asked the people for aid to the students,
they responded in a good way. The director of the Infant Jesus Shrine has given
us full cooperation. We are happy that the construction of a house for a poor
family is in the final stage and will soon be completed," said Maxim Fernandes.
Scholarships were distributed to 25 students, and saplings to those who were
present. Vincent D'Souza presented the programme. Victor Mendonsa completed the
scholarship process and Roshan D'Souza proposed a vote of thanks.
Feast
of Our Lady of Mount Carmel celebrated at the Infant Jesus Shrine, Bikarnakatte
The
Feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, popularly known as the Feast of the Scapular
(Benthin) was celebrated at the Infant Jesus Shrine, Bikarnakatte-Mangaluru on
Sunday July 14 along with Secular Carmelites and the faithful. There were three
masses for the entire day including a solemn festal mass at 6.00 pm. During all
the masses the Holy Scapular, the symbol of Our Lady’s protection, was
distributed. Novena was held in preparation for the feast which began on July 5,
with a reflection each day on the themes taken from the Regula given by St
Albert the then Patriarch of Jerusalme. The lay faithful who had gone to the
Holy Land to fight Crusades remained in the caves of Mount Carmel and started to
live a life of prayer and contemplation imitating Prophet Elijah. Later these
approached the Patriarch for a rule and thus they gave birth to the Carmelite
Order which is spread all over the world. Rev. Fr. Walter D'Souza, the newly
appointed Parish Priest of St Sebastian CHurch, Bendur presided over the festal
mass and preached the homily. Fr Stifan Perera the Director of the Shrine
thanked all the benefactors and volunteers, who are at the service of Carmelites
of Carmel Hill throughout the year. On the occasion of the Feast, the Carmelite
sponsored scholarship of 25 children of the Mercy Care Charitable Trust. Fr
Melvin DCuna, the Superior of the Monastery handed over the Cheque to Mr Maxim
Fernandes, the Managing Trustee.
Namma
Kudla Gathering at Udupi Farm House
‘Fraternitas’
- The Namma Kudla regional gathering was held at Udupi on June 18, 2024. By 9.30
am all the friars reached from north and south east and west navigating their
way to our newly built ‘Farm House’ in Udupi. Incessant rains did not deter our
brave friars from attending this important gathering. All were accorded a warm
welcome with a hot cup of almond milk shake. The educational session followed on
'Mobile and Cyber Crime' by Dr Grynal D’Mello Associate Professor of Nitte
University. At the outset Fr. Alwyn Sequeira, the animator of the community at
Udupi Farm House welcomed all the friars. Fr. Dr. John Sequeira gave a brief
overview of the topic and introduced the speaker. Dr. Grynal enumerated the
various cyber frauds and how to be judicious and keep ourselves safe while using
media platforms. A hot cup of soup was served soon after the one and a half hour
long study session. This was followed by a group discussion on a very apt and
relevant topic of ‘Vocation Promotion in the Region’. Several proposals were
presented and all were of the opinion that individually we have to take
responsibility to promote vocations. The evergreen Fr. Dr. Gregory D Souza
moderated the session. The Holy Eucharist was celebrated next in honor of our
Lady of Mount Carmel. The Mass was presided over by Fr Jossey Rodrigues on the
occasion of his forthcoming 74th birthday. Fr. Praveen Pinto the Superior of the
Parental Community of Udupi Farm House requested all to pray for the good health
of Fr. Jossey and sought the protection of our Divine Patroness over the Farm
house and the members living therein. Fr Clifford Rodrigues, the Benjamin of the
Region preached a short, crispy and thought provoking homily.
Blessings
for Bright Minds: A Solemn Mass for Students at Infant Jesus Shrine
On
the 23rd of May, 2024, at 10:30 a.m., a solemn Mass was celebrated at the Infant
Jesus Shrine, Bikkarnakatte – Mangaluru. This special Eucharistic celebration
was dedicated to praying for children who are at the threshold of commencing
their new academic year 2024-2025. The Mass sought divine blessings on the
children, specifically invoking the gift of the Holy Spirit to aid them to excel
in their academic pursuits. The Shrine witnessed a significant attendance, with
children, and their parents participating in great numbers. The liturgy was
marked by prayers for both the students and their educators. Special intentions
were offered for the teachers, acknowledging their pivotal role in shaping young
minds and fostering an environment rich in knowledge and understanding. The Mass
was presided over by Rev. Fr. Siltan Noronha, a newly ordained Carmelite priest
from Karwar. This occasion was particularly momentous as it marked Fr. Silton
Noronha’s first Mass at the Infant Jesus Shrine. His presence added a special
significance to the service, as the congregation, which witnessed his growth as
a enthusiastic brother, welcomed him with heartfelt warmth. Following the Mass,
the faithful participated in the Novena to Infant Jesus, which further
emphasized the people’s collective hope and faith in divine intercession for the
children's successful academic year. A special Eucharistic Adoration was held
after the Novena prayer. Children enjoyed Laddu as they came out of the Church
after the adoration.
Twelve
Brides of Christ felicitated
Showing
gratefulness to the yeomen service rendered by the women religious in the
Catholic Church and to the world at large and also to promote vocations to the
religious congregations, the Shrine of Infant Jesus, Bikarnakatte felicitated 12
newly perpetually professed Ursuline Sisters during the 10:30 AM Novena mass on
16th May, 2024. The mass was celebrated by Fr Melwin D'Cunha, the Superior of
the Monastery and the homily was preached by Fr Deep Fernandes who did an
exegesis of the Gospel of the day by applying the same to testify how Jesus
promoted diversity in his teachings which is seen in the Church today through
the presence of different religious congregations. Fr Naveen Lobo also
concelebrated the mass. After the mass, the 12 brides of Jesus were honoured
with the statue of the Infant Jesus each along with the other gifts. Fr Clifford
Rodrigues briefly introduced every sister. Following this, Sr Shalma narrated
her vocation to the consecrated life and expressed her gratitude to the
Carmelites for recognizing their respect and love to them. After the mass, the
sisters joined for the ‘high tea’ organized in the refectory of the Monastery
and delighted in the hospitality of the Fathers and the brothers. This effort by
the Carmelites was appreciated by many as they were provided an opportunity to
reflect on the spirituality of the Consecrated life manifested in the Gospel of
the day – ‘The Priestly Prayer of Jesus!’
Solemn
Profession of Carmelite Brothers
May
22, 2024, a Wednesday, marked a day of celebration and rejoicing as six
brothers—Pranay Pereira, Alwin D’Souza, Elston Monteiro, Stin George, Loy
Jackson Crasta, and Hilary Rodrigues—made their Solemn Profession, thereby
perpetually embracing the life of Carmel. Inspired by the spirituality of St.
Thérèse of Lisieux, they chose the poignant theme “To be little victims of Love”
for their sacred commitment. The solemn Eucharistic celebration began at 3:30
PM, presided over by Rev. Fr. Silvestre D’Souza, Provincial Superior,
accompanied by 46 priests from various province communities and the diocesan
clergy. In his homily, Fr. Provincial highlighted the lives of Carmelite saints,
emphasizing their deep connection with God’s love. He invited the brothers to be
true “victims of God’s love” in their daily lives as Carmelites, echoing the
spirit of self-surrender and devotion. The liturgy was animated by Br. Prithesh
Crasta, enhancing the spiritual atmosphere of the occasion. Adding a melodious
spiritual flavour to the celebration was the Carmel Choir, whose harmonious
singing uplifted the entire ceremony. Following the Mass, a short felicitation
was organized. Fr. Babush Rodrigues skillfully compered the program, while Fr.
Deep Fernandes offered a heartfelt toast, acknowledging the unique talents and
qualities of each brother, as well as the immense sacrifice of their parents in
offering their sons to the Carmelite life. Fr. Provincial extended his blessings
and best wishes to the newly professed brothers.
Felicitation
to the Newly Professed Brothers
Infant
Jesus Shrine, Bikarnakatte - Mangaluru warmly felicitated the Brothers who
committed themselves to the Order of Carmel through the profession of Religious
vows at Tapovana, Carmelite Novitiate at Kushalnagar on May 1, 2024. Having been
imbued with the Spirit of Carmel, these Brothers were received with joy by the
Community of St. Joseph, Mangaluru who congratulated them during the 10:30 am
Novena Mass on 9th May 2024. They came in procession during the Mass which was
celebrated by Fr Archibald Gonsalves, Vicar Provincial of the Karnataka-Goa
Carmelite Province. Among the five Brothers, 3 Brothers namely, Rheyan Fernandes
(Kulshekar Parish), Daniel Mathias (Kelarai Parish) and Clavin D’Souza (Panir
Parish) participated in the joy as the others (Brs Brayan Lobo and Mark Murali)
couldn't reach the venue since their homes were far. They were offered bouquets
of flowers by Fr Melvin D'Cunha, the Superior of the Monastery and the Statues
of the Infant Jesus by Fr Archibald Gonsalves. The celebration didn't end there.
They were accorded to the refectory for lunch prior to which they were embraced
with love and fraternity and were gifted roses and backpacks. Br. Jesvin Binoy
was the compere for the event! The community rejoices in having the five more
Brothers in the Order and waits eagerly for them as they persevere and in few
years join the community of Mangalore as theology scholastics!
Blooming
in grace: Felicitation to the Solemnly Professed
The
Infant Jesus Shrine in Bikkarnakatte, Mangalore, was the honored location for
celebrating the profession of the newly solemnly professed Bethany Sisters of
the Mangalore Province. The celebration at 10:30 mass on May 2, 2024 aligned
with the Thursday devotion to Infant Jesus. The Mass was celebrated by Rev. Fr
Melvin D’Cunha, the monastery’s Superior. A stimulating reflection was given by
Rev. Fr Deep Fernandes, the Theology students’ mentor. The Mass was further
elevated by the joint celebration of Rev. Fr Wilson Tauro, OCD, Rev. Fr Prosper
OCD from Tanzania, Fr Edwin D'Souza from the Diocese of Karwar and Fr Roshan
Lobo, OFM. The ceremony continued with a tribute to the six newly solemnly
professed sisters out of 31, each receiving a rose symbolizing their ongoing
commitment to Jesus’ love, and an Infant Jesus statue as a memento from the
Shrine. They include Sr M Swathi (Bajal), Sr M Veena Jyothi (Puttur), Sr Deepthi
Roshni DCunha (Fermai), Sr Reshma Josvita Nazreth (Neerude), Sr M Renita Veigas
(Nainad) and Sr M Vanitha Tellis (Hospet). Sr Reshma Josvita Nazareth BS, on
behalf of the professed sisters, expressed gratitude in a speech that offered a
glimpse into the significance of a religious calling, including personal
vocation reflections. Post the novena, the Carmelite community extended a warm
reception to the sisters and their Superiors at the refectory, sharing in a
pleasant high tea that promoted fellowship. The event reflected a deep sense of
spirituality, commitment, and communal harmony, reinforcing the young nuns’
faith and dedication. The Congregation of the Sisters of the Little Flower of
Bethany was founded in the year1921 on the solemnity of Our Lady of Mount
Carmel, 16th July by Rev. Mgr R.F.C Mascarenhas, the then parish priest of
Bendur, Mangalore.
The
Carmelites in Karnataka: The Teresian Carmelites had established themselves in
Goa and in Kerala in the seventeenth century. And since the region formerly
known as the Carnatic, lies between Goa in the north and Kerala in the South,
the Carmelites had inevitably to pass through Karnataka when proceeding by land
from Goa to Kerala. And it is not surprising to find them residing at least on a
temporary basis, in places like Bijapur, which form part of today's Karnataka.
In his ‘Viaggio alle Indie Orientali’ Fr. Vincent Mary of St Catherine, has left
us interesting descriptions of the beliefs, customs, feasts of the Canara of his
time, and even of the scenic beauties and the cultivation and other aspects of
life. But he found the Christians greatly neglected. And, on his reporting the
need of the Canara Christians to the Holy See, Mangalore secured its first Vicar
Apostolic in 1677.
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About
Infant Jesus Shrine :
Infant
Jesus has been honored with a magnificent shrine at Carmel Hill, Mangalore. The
architectural structure and design of the newly inaugurated shrine is unique in
many ways. Carefully planned, it has a rich symbolic meaning and significance
derived principally from Biblical themes, of both the old and the new
testaments. Here below we give in brief its main features. Here below we give in
brief its main features. Here below we give in brief its main features. Here
below we give in brief its main features.
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REFLECTIONS IN KONKANI (Audio)
You are welcome to benefit spiritually from the
reflections of our Carmelite Friar - Rev. (Dr) Rudolf
V. D’Souza, OCD
Retreat preached on the theme “The Kingdom of God is
at hand” at Abu Dhabi, from 26 November to 2 December,
2009.
Day 1: The Kingdom of God
Day 2: The Beatitudes
Day 3: The Seven Sacraments
Day 4: the Ten Commandments
Day 5: Holy Mother, the Church and Mother mary
Day 6A: Family
Day 6B: Love
Click here to Listen
Retreat preached at Ruwi – Muscat (Oman) from 20 to 24 January 2008
THEME: JESUS CAME TO GIVE LIFE, LIFE IN ABUNDANCE (JOHN
10:10)
1. ABUNDANT LIFE - GOD
2. FORGIVENESS
3. LOVE
4. SUFFERINGS
5. 7 WORDS FROM THE CROSS AND RESURRECTION
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