Media Release
Mangaluru May 16: On this day the ‘Infant Mary’s Convent’ premises stirred with sacred memory and deep joy, as the celebration of 75 years of canonised grace; of Saints Bartolomea Capitanio and Vincenza Gerosa, cast their golden glow upon this hallowed place.
Every corner echoed with silent gratitude, every sister moved with the quiet pride of an heir to holiness. It was not merely celebration of the past – it was a living homage to the love, sacrifice and sanctity of their beloved St Bartolomea Capitanio the foundress of Sisters of Charity and her companion St Vincenza Gerosa who were lifted to the alter on May 18, 1950.
The convent premises exuded an air of solemn elegance, as sisters, their dear ones, priests and well-wishers, gathered to take part in the festive celeberation. In deeply reverent atmosphere Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, bishop of Mangaluru and Dr Francis Serrao, bishop of Shimoga, officiated the solemn Eucharistic celebration at 10.30 am, concelebrated by many priests – filling hearts with sacred joy and the radiance of holiness.
The homily of bishop Francis Serrao added a profound charm to this milestone event, evoking deep reverence for the enduring legacy of sanctity, sacrifice and love left by the saints – a legacy that continues to live vividly in the lives of the sisters, through their selfless service to the most needy of the society.
Short programme followed thereafter especially the documentary on the lives of Saints Bartolomea and Vincenza - a testament that reflected their compassion, courage and unwavering faith.
Wishing well all the sisters bishop Peter Paul Saldanha said let the perfume and grace of sanctity continue to shine in your service and through you many may come to the Light.
The assembly shared in the Agape meal being called upon to walk in their footsteps, not just with reverence, but with resolve. The entire celebration stirred a profound realisation: sainthood is not merely a memory but a mission- a call to serve with the same fire of charity that once burned in the hearts of the saints.