Mangaluru: The Carmelites had more than one reason to thank God and celebrate on May 29, 2015. It was a day that saw two brothers pronouncing their religious vows for life at the Infant Jesus Shrine, Bikarnakatte.
The rite of Solemn Profession guided by Fr Prakash D’Cunha OCD, were beautifully integrated in the Eucharistic celebration. Fr George Santhumayor the Vicar Provincial, exhorted the candidates to be ‘Men of God and Men for God’, ‘men of integrity’ and ‘men of service.’ The highlight of the ceremony was making the religious profession in the hands of the Provincial Superior of the Carmelites, Fr Charles Serrao OCD.
Through Solemn Profession the members pronounce the three evangelical counsels (poverty, chastity and obedience) for life and is the final step in the religious life. The candidates become full-fledged members and share everything in common within the Religious Order. The Discalced Carmelite friars are extremely happy for the two new additions to their religious family: Br Don Tony D’Souza, Miyar and Br Amyas Quadros, Fatroda Goa.
At the end of the Mass there was a short felicitation programme. Three cheers to these young men who have made a radical choice to follow the Lord and serve the Church. We pray for them, and wish them all the best in their future lives. A special word of gratitude to their families for the great sacrifice they have made, for which God will never fail to bless them.