Simple Profession of Vows on the Solemnity of Prophet Elijah
Middletown, NY – On the 20th of July, the feast of St. Elias, the spiritual founder of the Order, the two dedicated souls, Br. Joseph Trung Do, O.Carm., and Br. Pedro Cruz Diaz, O.Carm., officially professed their simple vows at a solemn ceremony held at the National Shrine of Our Lady of Mount Carmel in Middletown, NY. The event brought together members of the North American Province of St. Elias and the Most Pure Heart of Mary (PCM), where the two newly professed brothers hail from Vietnam and Mexico, respectively.
The mass commenced with Very Rev. Carl Markelz, O.Carm., Prior Provincial of the Most Pure Heart of Mary (PCM), as the main celebrant, extending a warm welcome to all participants. Reverend Markelz urged everyone to join together in prayer, seeking blessings for the newly professed brothers on this momentous occasion.
Very Rev. Mario Esposito, O.Carm, the Prior Provincial of the North American Province of Saint Elias (SEL), delivered an inspiring homily during the mass. With heartfelt words, he illuminated the significance and challenges of embracing vows of obedience, poverty, and chastity in the modern world. Reverend Esposito emphasized the timeless relevance of these vows and encouraged the candidates to live them authentically, finding strength in the example of St. Elias, the spiritual founder of the Order of Carmelites.
The air was filled with joy and excitement as family members, relatives, and lay Carmelites from across the country gathered to witness this profound moment of commitment. The community rejoiced as Br. Joseph and Br. Pedro dedicated their lives to the service of God and humanity, taking a significant step in their spiritual journey.
Following the ceremony, the celebration continued with a joyous banquet, where attendees shared stories, laughter, and camaraderie. The event provided an opportunity for everyone present to strengthen the bonds of friendship and unity within the Carmelite community.
The professions of vows of Br. Joseph and Br. Pedro mark a new chapter in their lives, embracing a path of profound dedication and devotion. As they embark on their journey of living out vows of obedience, poverty, and chastity in the Order of Carmel, they carry with them the blessings and support of their fellow Carmelites and loved ones.
May the spirit of St. Elias continue to guide and inspire Br. Joseph Trung Do, O.Carm., and Br. Pedro Cruz Diaz, O.Carm., as they walk together in faith, love, and service to God and humanity. Their commitment is a testament to the enduring legacy of the Carmelite order, living the contemplative life and bringing hope in the world.
Middletown, NY, 20 July 2023
Fraternal welcome before the celebration
Bros. Joseph Trung Do, O.Carm. and Pedro Cruz Diaz, O.Carm.
Brother Joseph Trung Do, O.Carm. professes his vows of obedience, poverty, and chastity for three years into the hand of Very Rev. Mario Esposito, O.Carm, the Prior Provincial of the North American Province of Saint Elias (SEL).
Very Rev. Carl Markelz, O.Carm., Prior Provincial of the Most Pure Heart of Mary (PCM), blesses new mantle of the newly professed brothers.
Brother Joseph Trung Do, O.Carm. receives the Carmelite Rule of Saint Albert.
Fraternal peace
Pictured (from left to right) are Very Rev. Quinn Conners, O.Carm., Very Rev. Carl Markelz, O.Carm., Brother Pedro Cruz Diaz, O.Carm., Brother Joseph Trung Do, O.Carm., Very Rev. Mario Esposito, O.Carm., Rev. Timothy Ennis, O.Carm.
Carmelite friars and sisters
Brother Joseph Trung Do, O.Carm, newly professed friar
News and photos: SEL Media