OCDS Community Members' Formation Milestones @ Mapusa
The Secular Discalced Carmelite Community (OCDS) of St. Teresa of Avila, Peddem, Mapusa, Goa, joyfully announced that two of its members have advanced to the Initial Formation Stage 1, while three other members transitioned to Aspirancy on June 9, 2024.

Mr. Louis Dsouza and Mrs. Judith Dsouza made their pledges during the 8:15 am Mass at the Carmelite Seminary in Mapusa, Goa. The ceremony was attended by the Provincial of the Karnataka-Goa Province, Rev. Fr. Silvester D’Souza, and the Spiritual Assistant of the Mapusa Community, Rev. Fr. Jason Coutinho OCD, along with other community members. Following their pledges, Provincial vested Mr. and Mrs. Dsouza with the Scapular, symbolizing their commitment.

In the same ceremony, the Provincial also welcomed three new Aspirants, Mr. Charles Fernandes, Mrs. Luiza Dsouza, and Mr. Elvino Martins, by presenting them with the Carmelite emblem.

The Mass was concelebrated by several priests, including the Provincial Rev. Fr. Silvester Dsouza OCD, Frs. Aaron Babusha, Jason Coutinho, Alvito Fernandes, Don Tony D’Souza, Richard Saldanha, Roshan Monteiro and Vinod Lobo.

Additionally, the event was graced by delegates from the Provincial Council, including Mr. Sebastian Mendes, the President, Mr. Roy Rodrigues, the Councillor, and members from the St. Therese of the Child Jesus Community, Lar Margao, led by their President, Mrs. Martha Pereira.

After the Mass, all OCDS members and priests gathered in the Seminary Refectory to share their experiences over refreshments, marking the occasion with fellowship and joy.