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A New Vessel of Grace: Fr. Jesvin Tom Benoy Ordained as Carmelite Priest
On May 19, 2025, the Karnataka-Goa Province of the Discalced Carmelites
gathered together in joy for the ordination of Deacon Jesvin Tom Benoy
to the sacred priesthood at the Infant Jesus Shrine, Pushpashrama. Born
in Kerala and raised in Delhi, Deacon Jesvin s spiritual journey began
after his schooling in 2014 when he joined the Discalced Carmelites. His
formation took him through Margao (postulancy) and Kushalnagar
(novitiate), where he professed his first vows in 2016. Philosophical
studies at Pushpashrama and a BA from St. Philomena s College, Mysore,
deepened his intellectual foundation. After regency in Bellary, he
pursued theology at St. Joseph s Seminary, Mangalore, making his solemn
profession in 2023 and diaconal ordination in 2024. His diaconate
ministry at St. Joseph s Church, Mira Road (Mumbai), further prepared
him for this sacred milestone. Fr. Jesvin chose a powerful theme for his
ordination, "Filled to the Brim with Grace", inspired by 2 Corinthians
4:7 and the miracle at Cana. He himself explains: "Like the stone jars
filled to the brim, I come before the Lord ordinary, yet ready to be
transformed. Through His grace, the water of my efforts and those of
many others for my sake all these years, will become the wine of
priestly ministry, poured out for His people."
The Most Rev. Dr. Johannes Gorantla OCD, Bishop of Kurnool, presided
over the ordination Mass, joined by 63 priests, religious sisters, and
devotees from Mysore, Mangalore, and Mumbai. In his homily, Bishop
Johannes emphasized the priesthood as a call to selfless service and
prophetic courage. Fr. Wilfred Rodrigues animated the liturgy. Following
the Mass, Fr. Jesvin expressed heartfelt thanks to his formators,
family, and well-wishers.
The celebration also marked the release of three spiritual works:
1. The Spiritual Elevator: Biblical Foundations of the Little Way of
St Therese of Lisieux by Fr Richard D'Souza OCD
2. Hope, A Helmet of Salvation for the Spiritual Battle by Fr Richard
D'Souza OCD
3. The Mystical Way of Life by Fr Gregory D'Souza OCD
As the Carmelite family rejoices with Fr. Jesvin, they entrust him to
Our Lady of Mount Carmel, praying that his priesthood bears abundant
fruit in the Lord s vineyard.
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