3 days Retreat and Feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Celebrated with Solemnity at Carmel Ashram, Katkere
Katkere, July 19, 2025 – The Feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel was celebrated with great devotion and spiritual fervour at Carmel Ashram, Katkere. The celebration commenced at 5:00 PM with solemn Vespers followed by the Holy Eucharist.

In preparation for the feast, a three-day triduum and retreat was conducted, led by Rev. Dr. Fr Wilfred Rodrigues, OCD, who preached with depth and clarity on the Carmelite spirituality and Marian devotion. Each day concluded with the Novena to Our Lady of Mount Carmel, drawing many faithful to participate in prayer and reflection.

The festive Eucharistic celebration was presided over by Rev. Fr Stephen D’Souza, Chancellor of the Diocese of Udupi, who in his homily highlighted the rich Marian tradition of the Church. He emphasized how devotion to Our Lady and the Brown Scapular continues to be a source of divine grace and strength in the daily lives of Christians. He noted that such devotions not only preserve but also strengthen the fabric of Christian faith and identity.

The Mass was concelebrated by priests from the Kundapur deanery along with Carmelite priests from the region, adding a spirit of fraternity and unity to the celebration.

During the event, Rev. Fr Praveen Pinto, the Superior of Carmel Ashram, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to all the devotees, priests, and guests for their presence and prayerful participation. A moment of honour was held for the newly appointed Chancellor of the Diocese, recognizing his dedicated service. In a significant gesture, Rev. Fr Joe Tauro, OCD, recently appointed as the Episcopal Vicar for Religious in the Diocese of Udupi, was also felicitated by the Chancellor and the deanery priests for his new pastoral responsibility.

The feast was marked not only by solemn liturgy but also by deep spiritual communion, making it a memorable and grace-filled occasion for all who attended.