25 years of Carmelite presence
On 28 October 2023, the Carmelite Friars celebrated 25 years of Carmelite presence in South Africa, recalling that the first two friars arrived in Johannesburg on June 13, 1998. Initially, they resided in a facility provided by the Cloistered Sisters in their compound. Today, the Carmelites have two communities, one in Benoni and the other in Cape Town.
The Thanksgiving Mass was presided over by Bishop Buti Tlhagale Archbishop of Johannesburg, our Superior General Fr Miguel Marquez OCD, the Provincial Superior Fr Silvestre D’Souza, the General Definitors Fr Philbert Namphande and Fr Pius James D’Souza, supported by many priests and nuns. The Superior of Benoni Community, Fr Arvin Tauro, welcomed all the guests. The pioneers of the mission in South Africa, Frs. Raymond and Mari Joe, were specially honoured during the celebration.
Blessing and Inauguration of the Carmelite Monastery in Cape Town
On October 27, 2023, the Mimosa Carmelite Monastery in Cape Town was blessed and inaugurated. His Eminence Cardinal Stephen Brislin, the Superior General Fr. Miguel Marquez OCD, Fr. Silvestre D’Souza OCD Provincial of Karnataka Goa, the General Definitors Fr. Philbert Namphande OCD and Fr. Pius James D’Souza OCD were among the numerous attendees.
Following the Mass, Cardinal Stephen Brislin blessed the Monastery, with Fr. Miguel Marquez OCD, cutting the ribbon and unveiling the plaque by Rev. Fr. Silvestre D’Souza OCD. The Cardinal, the Superior General, and the Auxiliary Bishop blessed plants of biblical saplings of two Olive plants and one Fig plant.
