March 1, 2014 was a memorable day for the Discalced Carmelites of the Karnataka-Goa Province as the first two deacons from Gujarat, namely Kaushik Parmar and Daniel Christian were raised to the Order of Priesthood. Though this territory was assigned to us in 1981, we could set our feet in this state only in 2004 and had to wait another decade for the first fruits!

The ordination ceremony was held at St. Mary’s Church, Nadiad, Gujarat at 4-00pm. Most Rev. Dr. Godfrey Rozario, SJ Bishop of Baroda Diocese – a good friend of the Carmelites, was the ordaining minister. This historic moment was witnessed by around 90 priests and good number of religious sisters and thousands of laity. The entire liturgy was organized in Gujarati language and the melodious choir enabled the faithful to sing the praises of God.

After the ordination ceremony a short felicitation was held during which the Bishop, Provincial, Vicar General, Parish Priests and formators were felicitated by the new priests. The Provincial, Fr. Archibald Gonsalves, in his speech highlighted the contribution of the Carmelites in Surat (the erstwhile Vicariate of the Great Mogul) and the surrounding areas in the 18th and 19th centuries. Now finally the Carmelites have re-established their presence, thanks to the prayerful support of the Cloistered Carmel Sisters who preceded us and the warm and pressing invitation from the bishop of Baroda. At present we have begun the construction of our Little Flower monastery and Infant Jesus Church at Gorwa, Vadodara. We congratulate our new priests and seek the assistance of Jesus in their priestly and Carmelite ministry.

We are indeed grateful to you for your continued support towards the formation of our Seminarians and prayers. May Infant Jesus bless your goodwill.

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