Early Life and Family Roots

Fr. Ranjan D’Sa, OCD, was born on March 1, 1973, in Mangalore, along the western coast of India. The youngest of seven children, he comes from a family with deep roots in the Catholic community of Mudubelle, commonly known as Belle.

His family’s history is closely connected with the development of the town and its Catholic parish. His great-grandfather, Alex D’Sa, settled in the small village and established several early businesses, beginning with a provision store and later expanding into textiles, tailoring, and a bakery. He also built a small chapel to serve local Catholics and encourage the growth of the faith in the community. Over time, Mudubelle developed into a flourishing town and became home to one of the largest parish communities in the Diocese of Udupi.

Although born in Mangalore, Fr. Ranjan spent much of his childhood in Kirem, where he lived with his grandmother, Louisa Aranha, while completing his early education. A well-educated, industrious, and respected woman in her community, she became one of the most influential figures in his life. His memories of her example, strength, and character continue to inspire him.

A Calling to the Carmelite Life

After completing high school, Fr. Ranjan entered Carmelite religious life in Mangalore. He spent nearly 13 years in seminary formation, combining academic study with the prayerful and contemplative traditions of monastic life.

On December 29, 2001, he was ordained to the priesthood in his hometown. As a member of the Order of Discalced Carmelites, Fr. Ranjan belongs to a centuries-old spiritual tradition centered on prayer, contemplation, and a deeper relationship with God. Carmelite spirituality has influenced many of the Catholic Church’s great saints and continues to shape his approach to faith, ministry, and service.

Education, Teaching and Ministry

Fr. Ranjan earned a master’s degree in philosophy from Karnataka University in Dharwad, India. Following his ordination, he spent three years teaching philosophy to young seminarians, helping prepare future religious and priests for their own lives of ministry.

His responsibilities later expanded into leadership, formation, and social service. He became the first director of the Pushpashrama Social Work Institute in Mysore, operated by the Carmelites, and also served as director of candidates discerning a vocation to Carmelite religious life.

Before coming to Canada, Fr. Ranjan spent four years in New York. During this period, he continued his education at Fordham University, earning a master’s degree in Pastoral Care and Counseling.

Throughout his journey—from India to the United States and Canada—Fr. Ranjan has remained grounded in the Carmelite values that first shaped his vocation. His life reflects a continuing commitment to prayer, learning, spiritual formation, pastoral care, and service to others.