Grandparents Day Celebration – OCDS Margao
On 19th July 2026, the Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Community, OCDS, Margao-Goa gathered for their monthly fraternity meeting, which took on a special significance as members prepared spiritually for the upcoming Grandparents’ Day on Sunday, 26th July—a day dedicated to prayer and penance in memory of the holy parents of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Saint Joachim and Saint Anne.

As the community would not be meeting on the actual day, the occasion was joyfully and prayerfully celebrated in advance, honoring the grandparents within the OCDS family.

The gathering began on a deeply prayerful note with the reciting of the Chaplet of the Precious Blood of Jesus, in keeping with the Church’s devotion during the month of July. This was followed by the Liturgy of the Hours (Breviary) and a period of silent meditation.

The spiritual formation sessions conducted by the members for the community enriched the meeting .

The atmosphere then moved into a spirit of joyful fellowship. The community came together to celebrate the birthday’s of members in July —Viviane, Seby, Cheryl, Rosy, Sharlon, and Serafina —through song and prayer.

A highlight of the gathering was the heartfelt celebration of the grandparents of the community. They were lovingly invited forward and honoured for their witness of faith, love, and perseverance. A cake-cutting ceremony marked the occasion, followed by delightful performances by members on the songs “You Are My Sunshine” and “This Little Light of Mine,” bringing smiles and warmth to all present.

The celebration beautifully reflected the Carmelite spirit of prayer, community, and gratitude, recognizing grandparents as living treasures of faith and pillars of family life.

The gathering concluded with a prayer seeking the loving intercession of Saint Joachim and Saint Anne, that all grandparents may be strengthened in faith and continue to be guiding lights for future generations:

“Grandchildren are the crown of the aged, and the glory of children is their parents.”
— Proverbs 17:6

May the Lord bless all grandparents with health, peace, and joy, and through the intercession of Saints Joachim and Anne, may their lives continue to bear abundant spiritual fruit.