Mangalore: The celebration of Silver and Golden Jubilee of the Sisters of the Little Flower of Bethany, Mangalore Province was held at Bethany Provincialate, Vamanjoor on Jan 14, at 10.00 am. The felicitation Programme was held on the occasion.
Sr Cicilia Mendonca the Provincial Superior presided over the Programme. In her presidential address, she thanked the generous and selfless service of the sisters rendered for the Church and Society for the past 25 and 50 years being the members of the Congregation. She applauded their committed service. Out of 17 Jubilarians, 14 were present on the occasion.
Four Silver Jubilarians and ten Golden Jubilarian sisters were felicitated. They were honoured with citations along with a shawl, garland and a Jubilee gift. Sr Roshel the assistant Provincial Superior welcomed the Jubilarians as well as the gathering. The Council members along with the Province Procurator read the citation and handed it over to the Jubilarians. Sr Shubha, one of the Provincial Councillors compeered the felicitation Programme.
The thanksgiving Eucharistic Celebration was followed after the felicitation programme at 11.30 am. The jubilarians entered St Raymond’s Convent chapel with a procession along with the main celebrant. Rev Fr Maxim Rosario from Bishop’s House officiated the Eucharistic Celebration. In his homily, he gave a clarion call to the Jubilarians to plan for a healthy and grace-filled life built on the Love of God and neighbour. As per the Gospel reading, he insisted them ‘to be joyful in hope, patient in affliction and to be faithful in prayer’(Rom12:12). The Jubilarians renewed their religious commitment. Various prayers were offered for the intentions of the world, Church, Congregation and for the Jubilarians. Sr Leera Maria the Superior of Rosa Mystica Convent gave a brief introduction to the mass. Sr Anna Maria thanked the main celebrant and SrGracy Monica the Superior and the Sisters of St Raymond’s Community for the melodious choir and other chapel arrangements done for the Eucharistic Celebration. The Jubilee meal was served after the day’s programme. There were around 100 Bethany Sisters who participated in the day’s celebration.
Pix by: Stanly Bantwal
