A New Journey Begins in Andheri: Carmel Takes Root
First Orientation Meeting of the OCDS Community at Andheri | 4 October 2026
A new chapter in the story of Carmel began in Andheri on 4 October 2026, as a group of enthusiastic lay faithful gathered to discover the beauty and richness of the vocation of the Secular Order of Discalced Carmelites (OCDS).

The first orientation meeting of the newly initiated OCDS Community at Andheri was held at 4:00 p.m., at Cloistered Carmel, Andheri, Mumbai, bringing together those who felt drawn to explore the spirituality and way of life of Carmel within their ordinary circumstances as lay people. The gathering began with a hymn invoking the Holy Spirit, followed by an opening prayer led by Fr. Lancy Mendonca. Welcoming the participants, Fr. Lancy expressed his joy at the birth of this new group and encouraged everyone to approach the journey with an open heart, prayerfulness and a spirit of discernment.

Discovering the Heart of Carmel: Fr. Lancy introduced the participants to the identity and vocation of the OCDS, emphasizing that it is not merely a devotional association but a genuine vocation within the Carmelite family. He highlighted the three essential dimensions of the vocation: Prayer, Community and Mission, with particular emphasis on mental prayer, contemplation and growing in friendship with Christ.

A brief introduction to the history and charism of Carmel helped participants appreciate its rich tradition of prayer, contemplation, community and service.

Fr. Lancy also presented the “Six M’s” as a practical guide to Carmelite living: Mass, Morning and Evening Prayer, Mental Prayer, Mary, Meetings and Mission. The participants were also introduced to the basic expectations involved in discerning an OCDS vocation and the importance of regular formation and community participation.

Testimonies from the OCDS Family: The orientation was enriched by testimonies from Mrs. Anita Shiny, OCDS, of the St. Elizabeth of the Trinity Community, and Mrs. Wilma Coutinho, OCDS, of the St. Teresa of Los Andes Community, both from Mira Road, Mumbai. Their personal sharing offered valuable insights into the joys and challenges of living the Carmelite vocation as lay people and integrating its spirituality into everyday life..

Growing Together in Community: The new group will meet on the fourth Sunday of every month at 3:30 p.m., with regular participation being an important part of the formation and fraternal life of the community. Fr. Stin George M.R. was introduced as the Spiritual Assistant of the new group. The community will meet on the fourth Sunday of each month at 3:30 p.m.

The meeting concluded at 5:30 p.m., followed by a particularly joyful moment as the participants met the Cloistered Carmelite Nuns in the parlour. The nuns warmly welcomed them and lovingly served tea and refreshments, creating a beautiful moment of fellowship and communion within the Carmelite family.

A New Seed of Carmel: The first orientation marked a significant beginning—a journey of prayer, formation, discernment, community and friendship with Christ. May this new seed of Carmel in Andheri grow into a vibrant community and a living witness to the Teresian Carmelite charism.

“Let us begin, for the love of God.” — St. Teresa of Jesus
May Carmel take root, grow and flourish in Andheri!