## History

Blessed Maria Eugene Monastery, situated in the Diocese of Jalpaiguri, was established in *2016* as the Aspirants’ House of the *Regional Vicariate of North Bengal, South Kerala Province of St. Joseph, Order of Discalced Carmelites (OCD)*. The monastery was founded to provide initial formation and vocational accompaniment to young candidates who have completed their Higher Secondary (+2) education and are discerning a call to the Carmelite way of life.

The first community was entrusted to *Rev. Fr. Justin OCD*, who served as the first in charge of the house and guided its early development. Under his leadership, the monastery began its mission of nurturing vocations and introducing aspirants to the rich spiritual tradition of Carmel.

Named after *Blessed Marie-Eugène of the Child Jesus OCD, the renowned Carmelite spiritual master and author of *I Want to See God, the monastery seeks to form young men in the spirit of prayer, contemplation, fraternity, and apostolic zeal. Inspired by his teachings, the formation program emphasizes human, spiritual, intellectual, and pastoral growth.

Since its establishment, the monastery has provided a conducive environment for vocational discernment through community life, liturgical prayer, spiritual direction, academic studies, and pastoral exposure. It serves as an important center for fostering future vocations to the Carmelite Order and the priesthood.

Today, Blessed Maria Eugene Monastery continues to contribute to the mission of the Church by forming young aspirants in the spirit of St. Teresa of Avila, St. John of the Cross, St. Thérèse of Lisieux, and Blessed Marie-Eugène, preparing them to become faithful disciples and future servants of God’s people.

## Mission

* Vocational discernment and accompaniment.
* Human, spiritual, and academic formation.
* Promotion of Carmelite spirituality.
* Formation in prayer, fraternity, and service.
* Preparation for religious life and priesthood.

*Motto:* “To Live in God’s Presence and Lead Others to Him.”

Read more : https://southkeralaprovinceocd.com/blessed-marie-engine-monastery/