Sr Aruna BS
A meaningful and inspiring event unfolded on June 10, 2025, at St Raymond’s Convent, Vamanjoor, organized in collaboration with the Bethany Lay Association (BLA), with a shared mission to promote ecological awareness and responsible stewardship of creation.
The programme began in a prayerful and enthusiastic atmosphere, as members of the Bethany family and BLA united with a shared sense of purpose and spiritual commitment.
A major highlight of the event was a thought-provoking talk by Sr Dona, who shed light on “Laudato Si”, the landmark encyclical of Pope Francis. Sr Dona emphasized that the Earth is “our common home,” entrusted to humanity by God, and called for an ecological spirituality rooted in simplicity, responsibility, and reverence for creation. She challenged the gathering to become agents of transformation, starting from their homes and extending to their communities.
The event also featured a moment of joyful celebration and appreciation. The gathering warmly congratulated Sr Lavita Moras on her appointment as the new Superior of St Raymond’s Convent. Heartfelt gratitude was extended to Sr Gracy Bennis for her exemplary leadership and dedicated service to the Bethany mission.
As a visible expression of ecological commitment, saplings were distributed to the heads of various institutions—symbolizing a pledge to nurture life and uphold environmental care wherever they serve. This was followed by a tree plantation ceremony, where Sr Lavita Moras, along with the BLA members, joined in planting saplings on the convent premises. This symbolic act echoed the Bethany values of care, growth, and sustainability.
The day concluded on a joyful note with a time of fellowship over tea, offering participants the opportunity to share reflections, strengthen bonds, and renew their dedication to a shared ecological mission.
Special appreciation was also extended to Jeevandhara social centre Kulshekar whose generous donation of plants contributed significantly to the success of the programme.
This event stood as a shining testament to Bethany’s enduring commitment to education, service, and ecological justice, lived out in close collaboration with its dedicated lay members.
