Novena Videos

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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.

Naman Balok Jezu January 2023

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