An Irishman signed the decree, 100 years later, another Irishman confirms it
Altagracia de Orituco, Guárico State, Venezuela, was the scene for the celebration of the centenary of the affiliation of the Congregation Hermanas Carmelitas de Madre Candelaria, to the Order of Carmel on February 1, 2025. The Congregation was founded by Mother Candelaria de San José in November 1903 and affiliated to the Order on March 25, 1925. In an historical coincidence, the Irishman Elias Magennis, as prior general, received the affiliation while 100 years later, another Irish prior general, Míceál O'Neill, O. Carm., confirmed the affiliation.
The fraternal, cultural, and religious sharing was not long in coming; in the “De la Cumaná” field the stage was set to achieve a real celebration. The faithful of the town came to be part of the celebration. With songs of praise, dynamics and dance presentations, the festive day began.
It should be noted that before starting the liturgical celebration, those present were able to learn a little more about the life of the second Venezuelan Blessed and the Carmelite family, thanks to the presentation of Fr. Luis Maza, O. Carm, General Councilor for the Americas. He highlighted the heroic virtues developed in Mother Candelaria.
“She had the infused Charism of Carmel from her beginning, since she took the name of St. Joseph who is the patron saint of the Carmelite Order.” He continued with great emotion, “She was an affable woman who listened to the voice of God in her interior; and also, the voice of the brothers and sisters in need.”
He added: “Carmel is a large family comprised of: friars, nuns, congregations of active sisters, hermits, and apostolic groups. We all live under the Rule of St. Albert as a “Gift of Jesus,” embracing the Gospel, being contemplatives in prayer, fraternity and service in the midst of the people. We strive to be a prophetic sign of justice and solidarity.”
Finally, he emphasized that: “An Irishman [Prior General Elias Magennis] signed the decree of the annexation of the Congregation to the Carmelite Order in 1925; and 100 years later another Irishman confirms it.” At the conclusion, the group moved into the celebration of the Eucharist.
