Media Release
Mangaluru, May 9: The Bethany Congregation joyfully celebrated the golden jubilee of 16 sisters at Bethany Mother House on May 9, marking fifty years of faithful religious life and dedicated service to God and humanity.
The jubilarians arrived at Bethany Mother House amidst a warm and prayerful welcome extended by the superior general at Bethany Mother House. As part of their spiritual preparation, they participated in reflective sessions conducted by Sr Lillis BS and Sr Mariette BS, followed by a six-day retreat preached by Fr Biju Sebastian OP. These days of prayer and reflection enabled the sisters to renew their commitment and deepen their gratitude for God’s faithful guidance throughout their religious journey.
A solemn prayer service was held on the eve of the Jubilee at the Bethany Mother House Chapel, creating an atmosphere of thanksgiving and devotion. The solemn Eucharistic Celebration was presided over by Bishop Joseph Susainathan, the auxiliary bishop of the archdiocese of Bangalore along with Fr Walter D’Souza, parish priest of St Sebastian Church, Bendur and Fr Arun Lobo, principal of Padua Institutions. In his homily, bishop Joseph Susainathan called upon everyone to surrender themselves completely to God, reminding them that God lovingly cares for those who place their trust in Him.
A graceful felicitation programme followed at Raymond’s Hall. The programme commenced with a delightful entrance dance by the candidates, followed by a heartfelt welcome address by Sr Santhosh Maria, coordinator of the golden jubilee celebration. The biographies of each golden jubilarian were presented by Sr Shubha, Sr Cynthia Sequeira, and Sr Renita Rego, beautifully portraying their inspiring lives of prayer, sacrifice, mission, and selfless service rendered over five decades.
In his felicitation message, Bishop Joseph Susainathan encouraged the gathering to keep their hearts filled with gratitude and to continually thank God for His countless blessings. Sr Rose Celine, superior general, appreciated the jubilarians for their inspiring witness, commitment, and faithful service to the congregation and the church over the past fifty years. She called upon the Jubilarians to continue their journey with their eyes fixed on the Lord, living joyfully in their communities and serving as an inspiration to the younger generation.
The joyous celebration concluded with the cutting of the jubilee cake amidst songs of congratulations and thanksgiving. The vote of thanks was proposed by Sr Jacintha Rodrigues and Sr Celine Vas on behalf of all the golden jubilarians. The golden jubilee celebration stood as a profound witness to God’s enduring faithfulness and the beauty of a life wholeheartedly dedicated to his service. The programme was compered by Sr Felcy Veigas and Sr Georgina Ekkirala.