New Carmelite Servant of God

TREMEMBÉ (26-02-2010).- The diocese of Taubatè (São Paulo–Brazil) has officially opened the process of canonization of Mother María del Carmen of the Most Holy Trinity, the foundress of the Carmel of the Holy Face and Pius XII.

The ceremony took place on Sunday, 7th February, in the chapel of the Discalced Carmelite Nuns in the monastery of the Holy Face and Pius XII in Tremembé, 135 kilometres from São Paolo. The Eucharist was presided by the Bishop of the diocese, Mons. Carmo João Rhoden, and the Vice-postulator of the cause, Fr Patrizio Sciadini concelebrated. Attending were many priests and deacons friends of the Carmel, as well as a great number of faithful who joined in with the 15 Carmelite nuns in their celebrations. 

With Mother Carmen, there are now three Discalced Carmelite Nuns whose cause is in process in Brazil. 

Mother María del Carmen of the Most Holy Trinity

Carmen Catarina Bueno was born in Itu, in the State of São Paulo, on 25th December 1898. She entered the Carmel of St Joseph in Rio de Janeiro in 1926, where she was professed with the name of María del Carmen of the Most Holy Trinity at the age of 27. During her religious life she was Mistress of Novices, Sub-Prioress, and Prioress. In 1955 she set out to found the Carmel of the Holy Face and Pius XII at Tremembè. 

She devoted great attention to novitiate formation and the care of the sick sisters in the community. In 1966 she died from a cerebral haemorrhage at the age of 67. 

Introduction of the Cause of Canonization

The first step in the process of canonization belongs to the diocesan bishop and to the Postulator of the Cause who present to the Congregation of Causes of the Saints a report on the life and virtues of the candidate for the Altars.

After examining the report presented, the Vatican Congregation issue the Decree “Nihil Obstat” by which the diocesan authorities are permitted to begin the canonical process. At this time, the diocesan Bishop can pronounce the Decree of Introduction of the Cause of the Servant of God.

-- Communicationes 

** With gratitude to Sister Mary Joseph for reminding me of this new flower in Carmel.