Lucena, Philippines – On the 15th of October 2019, the feast of St. Teresa of Avila, young professional Shiela Mae R. Alcantara entered external Aspirancy in the community of Reina del Carmelo, Lucena City.  Sr. Chrezann M. Angulo, CMT, Provincial Delegate, formally welcomed her and imposed the cross on her as a sign of her aspiration in following Jesus Christ and the beginning of her vocational journey in the family of Carmelitas Misioneras Teresianas.

Alcantara purposely chose the feast of St. Teresa because she was inspired by her prayer, Solo Dios Basta (God alone suffices), citing a line from it, “let nothing disturb you, let nothing frighten you, all things are passing away”, which she first heard when she was in second year college. Right then she felt the strong connection between God and Teresa and so she wanted to experience it too.

After the entrance ceremony, thanksgiving mass and the celebration of the first communion of Bon Joven Lopez and John Querubin Jenisan (Sr. Teresa Mira scholars) followed.  The occasion was presided by Rev. Fr. Edwin O. Panergo, together with Rev. Fr. Ryan Israel R. Martinez.

Shiela Mae R. Alcantara, Aspirant

Lucena City