Patroness honored @ Empoli
July 16, 2015 – is an auspicious day to the entire Carmelite family as they celebrated the solemnity of Our Lady of Mount Carmel who is the Sister, Mother and Patroness of the Carmelite Order. On this propitious day, the Carmelites of Santa Maria, Empoli along with the parishioners, friends, near and dear ones celebrated the feast with hearts full of joy and thanksgiving. The festivity commenced at 6-00pm with the Holy Rosary, Eucharistic Adoration, Solemn Vespers followed by solemn festive mass celebrated by Fr Manoj Braganza. Fr Donath in his homily highlighted the protection of the Blessed Virgin Mary and invited all to follow Jesus who is the master and Lord of our life. At the close of the mass, Fr Donath, the parish priest expressed the words of gratitude to all who made the day a memorable one and thanked the parishioners and the Ursuline Franciscan Sisters for their gracious presence at the feast. As the final hymn was sung, all the faithful were given the scapulars, souvenirs and images of our Lady of Mount Carmel. The culmination of the celebration was the festive dinner which was shared by the chosen invitees and friends of the Carmelites.