Media Release
Canada, Oct 23: The Discalced Carmelites of Karnataka Goa Province in India and Canada, inaugurated the Little Flower Monastery at Carmel Hill on October 15. Helen Chua Tiampo generously contributed towards the whole project in memory of her loving parents Jaime and Josefina Chua Tiampo. This is the first ever monastery by the Karnataka Goa Province of the Discalced Carmelites established in Canada - Vancouver.
Guests arrived at the site in 10 buses and many other guests arrived in their own private vehicles. It was estimated that around 700 people were present for the event and 50 priests and three bishops for the liturgical celebrations. It was a fantastic celebration that highlighted the features of Karnataka Goa Province. Fr Charle Serrao, provincial delivered a wonderfully prepared message, followed by a prophetic message from the previous provincial, Fr Archibald Gonsalves OCD. Archbishop Michael encouraged the congregation to pray for this facility that it may cater to future vocations and spread Carmelites spirituality. After the Holy Eucharistic celebration the Souvenir of Carmel Hill was released by Bishop Monreo and Helen released Fr Rudolf's book 'The way less travelled'.
A wonderful meal was prepared by John Carlos and company. Everyone was happy and enjoyed this unique occasion.
The archbishop J Michael Miller CSB extended his wholehearted support and encouragement by granting permission to begin this project.
The provincial Fr Charles Serrao OCD present witnessed the great event along with the previous provincial Fr Archibald R Gonsalves OCD who actually encouraged a house of their own in Canada during his many visits in the last few years.
Appreciation to Fraser Valley Rural Development Authority for extending their co-operation and support and also permitting the development of this property was extended by David Bennet. The tireless efforts by the architect John Clark and his assistant Paul Owens in designing this beautiful edifice of God were recognized. The Alfred Horie Construction Company was congratulated and applauded for achieving this feat within a whopping 8 months time. Steve Paone and his team were specially thanked; site superintendent Dennis Cadrain, Allen, Mark, Robert and other wonderful workers were also thanked.
Darrell Wickstrom was commended for his tireless efforts at granting timely advise on the project. Steve Creighton helped to co-ordinate the entire event of the celebration. Francis Wong was instrumental in coordinating the entire progress of the building work. Stewart Hayashi was also instrumental in getting the Canadian Carmelite Charitable Society along with Francis Wong.
Ben Kernan from Florida, Pam Prior, Emmet McGrath, Kent and others contributed their share towards making this event a memorable one. The guest priests from Rome Fr Ivan Pinto, Fr Lawrence D'Mello and Fr Manoj Braganza were present as well as Fr F B Henry (Bishop Calgary Diocese) and Fr David J Monroe Bishop of Kamloops. Local newspapers especially BC Catholic covered the event. Rizalina Geronimo, Jennifer Po, Oscar Geronimo, Carmelites Fr Jerald D'Souza, Fr Rajesh Madtha, Brother Joseph Giroux and Fr Jason extended their support and help. Carmelites from different regions of Canada were present.
The congregation was thanked for their prayers and encouragement and also encouraged to continue to pray for Helen's health, long life and happiness.