A Joyous Milestone: Definitive Promise Ceremony of OCDS @ Margao
It was a day of great joy for the members of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Community and St. Thérèse of the Child Jesus Community, as five of their members made their Definitive Promise on July 4, 2025, at the Carmelite Monastery, Margao.

Members from Our Lady of Mount Carmel Community:
1. Mathil Jane of St. Edith Stein
2. Cheryl Fernandes of St. Teresa of Avila
3. Sophie Viegas of St. Elijah
4. Maria Elsa Fernandes of St. Thérèse of the Child Jesus

Member from St. Thérèse of the Child Jesus Community:
1. Saumika Crasta of Our Lady of Mount Carmel

This sacred milestone was celebrated during the Holy Eucharist, presided over by Rev. Fr. Silvestre D’Souza, Provincial of the Karnataka-Goa Province. He was joined by the Superior, Fr. Marlon Rodrigues, and the Spiritual Assistants of both communities, Fr. Diego Proença and Fr. Don Tony, along with Fr. Santosh and Fr. Kiran Lobo.

The celebration began with Sharlon serving as the emcee, setting a reverent tone for the event. Members of both communities sang hymns, followed by an encouraging and heartfelt address from Fr. Sylvestre, preparing the hearts of the faithful for the solemn occasion. Elizabeth Santos and Ramilla Rodrigues, Presidents of their respective communities, presented a token of love to Rev. Fr. Silvestre D’Souza on behalf of all members.

In the presence of their families, friends, and fellow OCDS members, the five candidates made their Definitive Promise, committing themselves to live the Carmelite Secular vocation with fidelity—through a life centered on prayer, community, and mission, the three foundational pillars of OCDS life.

After the Mass, everyone gathered in the main hall for a joyful time of fellowship. The five newly professed members cut a celebratory cake, and the communities united in singing the Congratulations song, their voices lifted in gratitude and joy.

The evening concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks delivered by Rhea, followed by a grand dinner, marking the end of a truly memorable and grace-filled celebration.