Report: Sr Mariola B S
Mangaluru, Apr 21: The Congregation of the Sisters of the Little Flower of Bethany, Mangaluru, celebrated the perpetual profession of eight sisters on April 21 at Rosa Mystica Convent, Kinnikambla.
The Eucharistic celebration was held at 9:30 am, officiated by the Bishop of Mangalore Diocese, Dr Peter Paul Saldanha, and concelebrated by six priests. In his homily, the Bishop explained the sacrifices that a consecrated person is called upon to make to live the vow of chastity, poverty, and obedience. He emphasized that religious profession is an act of final submission of one’s will, possession, and love. The faithful are called to embrace the world with the love of Christ.
Sr Rose Celine B S, the Superior General of the Congregation, received the vows and accepted the sisters as perpetual members of the Bethany family. She congratulated the parents of the sisters and thanked them for offering their daughters in the service of the Lord through Bethany. She invited everyone to be an evangelical witness and continue the mission of Jesus. Sr Rose also expressed her gratitude to God for the gifts of 19 tertians who belong to 13 dioceses in India and underwent intense preparation for their final vows.
Sr Cicilia Mendonca, the Provincial of the Mangalore Province, welcomed the members gathered for the felicitation program. Sr Sharon Preethi compered the event. The family members of the newly perpetual professed, relatives, and a large number of sisters participated in this sacred and joyful event.
The perpetual sisters were greeted in the presence of their parents and relatives. The Superior General thanked their parents for their gift to Bethany. These sisters belong to different provinces.