A Joyful Beginning for the Discalced Carmelite Secular Order in Baroda Diocese
It is with deep joy that the Carmelites in the Diocese of Baroda announce the establishment of the Discalced Carmelite Secular Order (OCDS) at Carmel Ashram (Cloistered Carmel), Baroda.

On the 16th of July 2025, the Solemnity of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, a festive Eucharistic celebration was held at the Cloistered Carmel. The Holy Mass was presided over by Rev. Fr. Silvester D’Souza, OCD, Provincial of the Karnataka-Goa Province. He was joined by Fr. Nitesh Rodrigues OCD, Fr. Jignesh OCD, Fr. Anoop OCD, Fr. Jesuraj, Fr. Obry SJ, and Fr. Chris SDB. A good number of faithful were also present to share in the joy of this special occasion.
During the solemn celebration, 14 members were officially welcomed into the Discalced Carmelite Secular Order, marking the beginning of their initial formation. In total, 16 members have come forward to begin this journey, and 2 more are expected to commence formation in the near future.

After the final prayer, Rev. Fr. Silvester D’Souza expressed his heartfelt thanks to the new members for their spirit of prayer and their generous response to this vocation, which calls them to grow in holiness while living in the midst of the world, guided by the Carmelite charism.

Let us continue to pray for these new members of the OCDS, that through prayer, silence, and service, they may walk faithfully in the footsteps of Our Lady of Mount Carmel and our Holy Mother St. Teresa of Avila.