17th of July, 2022 was a special day for the Secular Carmelites (OCDs) of Infant Mary unit community, Bajjodi wherein eight members of the community -

made their temporary promises in the presence of Rev. Fr. Deep Fernandes, OCD, Provincial Councillor and Delegate Provincial of OCDs and Fr. Ivan Dsouza, Spiritual Assistant of OCDs Bajjodi Unit. Fr. Patrick Lobo, Fr. Rayan Pinto and Fr. Shabas Crasta concelebrated the Mass during which the rite of Promises was held. Rev. Fr. Deep Fernandes in his brief homily explained about living in the presence of God. The candidates were guided by Fr. Ivan D’souza OCD.

 

Mass was followed by a cultural programme in the Church hall to which Provincial Councillor and Delegate Provincial of OCDs Rev. Fr. Deep Fernandes, Spiritual Assistant Fr. Ivan Dsouza, Fr. Patrick Lobo, First councillor of the OCDs Provincial Council Mrs Lavina Noronha, Vice President of the Parish Council Mr. Prakash Saldanha, Secretary Mrs. Irine Pinto, OCDs President Mrs. Asuntha Mendonca were the dignitaries on the dais. OSS sisters, core members of St. Teresa OCDs unit, Families of OCDs members were among others present for the function.

The annual day programme started at 11.30am with a prayer song. Mrs. Asuntha Mendonca welcomed the guests and the gathering after which OCDs Secretary Mrs. Gracy Fernandes read the Annual Report. This was followed by prize distribution to all the winners of the Annual sports day. Mrs. Sabrina Dcosta read out the names of the winners.

The guests in their message congratulated all the members of the Secular Carmel for their unity and co-operation and called to partake in the work of the Holy Church through prayer and service and their commitment to the vocation. The 8 members who made their promises cut a cake as they were congratulated by the other community members with a meaningful song. Mrs. Stella Dsouza delivered the vote of thanks. Mrs. Anitha Nazareth compered the programme.

The OCDs members exhibited their talents with a Joke and a skit. There were spot games conducted which brought in a lively interaction among all present. The programme came to an end at around 1.45pm with a Marian hymn followed by lunch.