Media Release

Mangalore, Dec 22: A memorial Mass for the founding parish priest of Bendur parish, Mgr Raymond Francis Camillus Mascarenhas (RFC) was held at St Sebastian Church, Bendur on Saturday December 22 at 9 am, to mark his 52nd death anniversary which falls on Sunday December 23.

Mgr Dennis Moras Prabhu, Vicar General of Mangalore Diocese was the main celebration. Fr John Baptist Saldanha, Fr Peter Mascarenhas, Fr Francis D`Souza SJ, Fr Naveen Pinto, Fr John Baptist Moras and Fr Paul Crasta concelebrated the Mass which was well attended by students and teachers, members of Bethany Lay Association, parishioners and Religious Sisters.

In his homily Mgr Dennis underscored the matchless contributions of Mgr RFC Mascarenhas, Founder of Bethany Sisters and the first Servant of God from Mangalore diocese. Born into a God-fearing educated family, he knew the value of education. But the majority poor especially the girls of his time didn`t have chance for education. He started Bethany Congregation to meet this need. A man of prayer, he reflected over everything like Mother Mary and always prayed for God`s light.

“Raymond is God`s gift to Mangalore,” Mgr Dennis said. He also highlighted Fr Raymond`s proverbial love for the Blessed sacrament, Mother Mary, and the Word of God. Fr Raymond had built the St Sebastian Church with much difficulty, and had served as its vicar for 17 years from the time of its establishment until his appointment as Vicar General of the diocese in 1931.

Fr Antony Serrao, parish priest of Bendur placed a wreath on the tomb of Fr RFC which lies below the communion railings and Sr Wilberta BS Superior General of Bethany placed a bouquet of flowers. Sr Lillis BS, Assistant Superior General, Sr Marriette BS, Provincial of Mangalore Province and representatives from Bendur parish, Bethany Lay Association, teachers, students, superiors and various communities also offered floral tribute.