Media Release
Mangaluru, Jan 31: St Raymond Convent, Vamanjoor, marked a significant milestone as it celebrated its Golden Jubilee, commemorating 50 years of dedicated service in faith, education, and healing. It hearled the faithful presence and service of The Congregation of the Sisters of the Little Flower of Bethany, Mangalore.
This milestone was a sacred moment to remember God’s unfailing love and the dedicated efforts of generations of Bethany Sisters who have lived the charism of compassionate love for the poor, simplicity, and selfless service.
St Raymond Convent named under the patron saint of Fr Founder, St Raymond of Penyafort was started in 1976 with Sr Louise as the first superior along with Sr Vernonica, Sr Afflicta, Sr Genevira and Sr Alphonsine.
With hearts filled with gratitude to God, the Eucharistic celebration was held on Saturday, 31 January, officiated by Fr Maxim L Noronha, vicar general of the diocese of Mangalore. In his homily, Fr Maxim quoted Pope Francis: “What would the Church be without religious sisters and consecrated laywomen? The Church cannot be understood without them.” He expressed deep appreciation for the sisters’ dedicated service over the past 50 years to the poor, the marginalized, and neglected children, especially through their commitment to education in and around Vamanjoor.
He further exhorted that this jubilee is a celebration of love lived in convent, of blessings received, time spent in silent prayer, lives of bearing, caring, and sharing, and of God’s abiding faithfulness. Recalling the foresight of Msgr Raymond, the founder of the Bethany Congregation, he highlighted how the presence of the sisters over these 50 years has been a channel of goodness and grace among the people.
The jubilee felicitation programme was presided over by Sr M Rose Celine BS, superior general of the Congregation of the Sisters of the Little Flower of Bethany. Sr Rose Celine appreciated the unwavering courage of the pioneers and all the sisters who dedicated their lives to the work of God’s Kingdom, making the presence of Bethany deeply felt in and around Vamanjoor. She fondly recalled her joyful memories of being present at the canonical erection of the community in 1976. With gratitude, she acknowledged the dedicated service of all the provincial superiors, superiors, and every member who served St Raymond Convent in various capacities. She also congratulated Sr Lavita BS and all the members of St Raymond Convent for faithfully upholding the legacy of caring for the elderly Sisters and for carrying forward the vision of the Founder Msgr Raymond.
Sr Lilly Pereira BS, provincial superior of Mangalore Province, graced the occasion as the guest of honour. In her address, she gratefully recalled Dr Paul Fernandes, the generous friend of the founder, who lovingly offered this land as a gift — a gesture that continues to bear fruit in the mission today. Sr Lilly warmly acknowledged the constant support and guidance of the superiors general, regional superiors, provincial superiors, the superiors who faithfully served the community, and every sister whose silent sacrifices have strengthened the mission around Vamanjoor. She especially highlighted how, without seeking recognition or making noise, the sisters have nurtured and expanded the mission through their words, Gospel values, and compassionate actions. Their quiet dedication and value-based service stand as a living testimony to the spirit of the congregation, inspiring all to cherish and continue this noble mission.
Fr James D’Souza the parish priest of St Joseph the worker Church Vamanjoor also appreciated and thanked for the dedicated services of sisters rendered at the Church in various capacities.
This Golden Jubilee stands as a witness of celebration of thanksgiving, for lives touched, faith nurtured, and hope renewed. It recalled the five decades of steadfast love, commitment, and service to the humanity. The presence of clergy, religious sisters, BLA members, well-wishers, and faithful added grace and solemnity to the celebration.
Sr Lavita Moras BS, the superior, extended a warm welcome to all the gathered. Sr Sharon Preethi and Sr Sushmitha served as the masters of ceremonies, and Sr Royline proposed the vote of thanks. The celebration concluded with a meal served to all.