Solemn Celebration of St. Teresa of Jesus at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Shrine, Benoni, South Africa
On the 15th of October, the Our Lady of Mount Carmel Shrine resounded with joy and thanksgiving as the Carmelite friars celebrated the Solemnity of St. Teresa of Jesus, the great Doctor of the Church and reformer of the Carmelite Order.

The solemn Eucharistic celebration was presided over by Most Reverend Buti Tlhagale, Bishop Emeritus of Johannesburg, whose gracious presence added to the solemnity of the occasion. Fr. Silvestre D’Souza, Provincial delivered a deeply inspiring homily, drawing attention to the spiritual legacy of St. Teresa of Avila and her enduring relevance in the life and mission of Carmel today. His reflection invited all present to rekindle the Teresian spirit of prayer, contemplation, and renewal within their own communities.

The celebration brought together all the Carmelite friars serving in South Africa, fostering a spirit of fraternity, unity, and shared mission. In his words of gratitude, Fr. Rayan Pais warmly thanked Bishop Tlhagale for his fraternal visit and pastoral encouragement, and expressed sincere appreciation to Fr. Provincial for his guidance, leadership, and spiritual accompaniment of the friars.

A special highlight of the day was the official release of the 9th edition of the “Springs of Carmel” Bible Diary 2026 by Bishop Tlhagale. This much-loved Carmelite publication continues to nourish and inspire the faithful, helping them grow in their daily encounter with the Word of God.

The celebration also provided a joyful moment to congratulate Fr. Silvestre D’Souza, Fr. Mari Joe, and Fr. Boniface D’Souza on the anniversaries of their religious profession. Their fidelity and joyful witness to the Carmelite vocation were gratefully acknowledged by all present.

The day concluded in a spirit of thanksgiving and fraternal joy, as the community renewed its commitment to living the Carmelite charism of prayer, community, and service with deeper devotion and zeal.