Media Release
Mangaluru, May 14: A day etched in golden letters in the annals of the Bethany Congregation, May 14, witnessed the joyous homecoming of thirty-nine dedicated sisters, who completed 25 years of their consecrated life. Returning from three continents, these jubilarians reunited at the Bethany Mother House in Bendur, the cradle of their spiritual journey, for a celebration steeped in reverence, gratitude, and grace.
This silver jubilee was more than just a milestone—it was a sacred return to the roots that shaped their vocation. A 30-day renewal and retreat programme, organized at Bendur, Mangaluru, and Kengeri, Bengaluru, offered the jubilarians an enriching time of reflection, prayer, and spiritual rejuvenation in preparation for the celebration.
The day began with a solemn Eucharistic celebration, presided over by Dr Henry D’Souza, bishop of Bellary, and concelebrated by 12 priests. In his homily, the bishop commended the sisters for their unwavering commitment, courage, and grace in saying ‘Yes’ to Christ and called upon them to continue being radiant witnesses of God’s love.
The spiritual celebration transitioned into a vibrant felicitation programme, where each sister was honoured through heartfelt citations. These narratives reflected their lives of mission, humility, prayer, and love—each one a living testimony of Bethany’s enduring legacy of service.
Sr Mariette, the coordinator of the jubilee and the renewal programme, extended a warm welcome to the gathering, setting the stage for a celebration filled with joy and deep emotion.
In a touching moment, Sr Rose Celine, superior general of the congregation, felicitated the jubilarians with garlands and mementos. In her address, she said, “Your lives are a melody of prayer, commitment, and mission. You have remained vibrant and true to the call of Bethany.” Her heartfelt words resonated with every soul present.
Adding a sweet note to the occasion, the jubilarians cut a beautifully decorated silver jubilee cake, while a joyful greeting song lifted the atmosphere with celebration and love.
The jubilarians expressed their gratitude creatively through symbolic gestures, thanking the Bethany family, especially Sr Mariette, for her meticulous efforts in making the event memorable.
The programme was elegantly compered by Sr Reena D’Souza BS and Sr Renita Rego B S, whose graceful anchoring added a rhythmic flow to the event.
This silver jubilee celebration was not just an occasion — it was a testimony of love, faith, and enduring service, a reaffirmation of lives joyfully lived in dedication to God and humanity through the Bethany way.