Golden Jubilee Year Inaugurated at Raymond’s Convent on Bethany Foundation Day

 Sr Sadhana BS

“Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever.” – Psalm 107:1

July 16, 2025 was a radiant day of joy, gratitude, and divine grace as St Raymond’s Convent, Vamanjoor stepped into its Golden Jubilee year, celebrating 50 glorious years of God’s providence and faithful service. This momentous occasion was made even more meaningful as it coincided with the 104th  Bethany Foundation Day, uniting the past, present, and future in a heartfelt celebration of faith and mission.

The day began with a reverent and joy-filled Holy Eucharistic Celebration.  Sr Sushmitha warmly welcomed the gathering with an introduction that beautifully set the tone for the dual celebration. The solemn Mass was preceded by the unveiling of the Golden Jubilee Logo by Rev Sr Lilly Pereira, Provincial Superior of the Mangalore Province, in the presence of Sr Lavita BS, Superior of the convent, and Rev Fr Leo Moras.

As the logo was revealed, it symbolically radiated the spirit of faith, sacrifice, and dedicated service that has defined the journey of St Raymond’s Convent over five decades. Sr Sadhana provided a reflective explanation of the logo, inviting all to contemplate its deep spiritual and symbolic meaning:

  • At the centre, Mother Mary, the Immaculate Conception and Patroness of the Province, with outstretched hands, embodies grace, compassion, and protection.
  • Left side: Servant of God RFC Mascarenhas, founder of the Bethany Congregation, stands as a beacon of vision and faithfulness.
  • Right side: St Raymond, the Patron Saint, represents divine guidance and tireless service.
  • Top circle: The name “ST RAYMOND CONVENT (MANGALORE PROVINCE)” firmly anchors the institution’s identity within the Bethany Congregation.
  • The motto: “My Soul Glorifies the Lord” (Luke 1:46) echoes the community’s heartfelt praise and thanksgiving.
  • The golden banner with “50 Years” carries the tagline:
    • Educating Minds: Academic excellence.
    • Shepherding Hearts: Nurturing faith and values.
    • Healing Lives: Compassionate outreach.

The use of gold, blue, white, and maroon in the logo eloquently expresses jubilation, purity, truth, sacrifice, and devotion.

During the homily, Fr Leo Moras offered a profound reflection on the theme of “Surrender”, urging all to carry this sacred word into the Jubilee year with trust and openness to God’s will. The Holy Mass was enriched by the choir conducted by Srs Vidya, Sadhana, Sushmitha, and Preethi.

Post-Eucharist, Sr Mariola conveyed the community’s warm greetings and felicitated Provincial Superior Sr Lilly Pereira with a bouquet, thanking her for her exemplary leadership and deep commitment to the mission.

The evening unfolded in an atmosphere of fellowship and thanksgiving. The celebration was graced by Rev  Fr James (Parish Priest), Fr Jeevan, Fr Wilfred Prakash (Director, St Joseph Engineering College), Fr Kenith SRA, Sr Leena SRA, Sr Merilyn, Luciana Superior, along with sisters and well-wishers of the Raymond Community.  Sr Lavita Moras, the Superior of the community welcomed the gathering.

A special highlight was the launch of three new websites as part of the congregation’s growing digital apostolate:

  • Jeevan Dhara Social Service Trust and Shubhada Trust websites, launched by Sr Lilly Pereira.
  • Bethany Charitable Trust website, launched by Sr Mariola.
  • Sr Flavia introduced the initiatives, while Sr Gracy Bennis received heartfelt appreciation for her dedication in bringing these digital platforms to life.

The day culminated with an Agape meal, symbolising the unity, joy, and shared purpose of a community walking together in faith and service.

“Faithfulness to God in little things brings a lifetime of blessings.”

One Response

  1. Hearty Congratulations 🎊 dear Sr. Lilly Pereira. May God bless you in your noble work in spreading the Good news of the Lord and the Congregation through digital world.

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