Media Release
Udupi, Jan 30: The golden jubilee of religious profession of Sr Benignus BS belonging to St Joseph’s Convent, Shubadha, Suralpady was celebrated at Ozanam Home for the Aged, Santhekatte, Kallianpur on Janaury 28.
The thanksgiving Eucharistic celebration was officiated by Fr Valerian Mendonca, the rector of Milagres Cathedral, Kallianpur and co-officiated by Fr Charles Menezes, Fr Elias Martis, Fr Patrick and Fr Aloysius Lewis. In his homily Fr Charles Menezes highlighted the faith response of Sr Benignus to commit herself to God through religious life. He appreciated her committed life of 50 years in the service of the Lord and His people in different parts of India and Africa.
After the Mass, there was felicitation programme held in the Ozanam Campus. Charles Gomes, the nephew of Sr Benignus welcomed the guests and the gathered members on the occasion. Along with Sr Benignus, Thomas Aranha, her brother, Fr Valerian Mendonca, Sr Herita Monthi BS, the superior of St Joseph’s Convent, Shubadha, Suralpady were present on the dais.
Sr Benignus carved the jubilee cake. She was felicitated with greeting song by St Joseph’s community members. Later she was honoured with shawl and garland along with citation. Jerald Aranha the nephew of Sr Benignus shared the reminiscences of her life in the family. Sr Anna Maria BS acknowledged the compassionate services of Sr Benignus in Bethany family and her compassionate service towards humanity. Fr Valerian Mendonca applauded her notable service in the Church and int he society. He acknowledged her accompaniment at Ozanam Old age home with the inmates. At the outset the programme began with prayer dance by Sharal Lobo.
The programme was winded with the grateful note by the jubilarian appreciating the role played by the parents, family members and the members of the Congregation in shaping her life. She also thanked all the members responsible to hold the day’s programme. It was followed by fellowship meal arranged by the family. Her family members, friends, Bethany sisters and the inmates of Ozanam old age home graced the occasion.