The Mangalore Province joyously celebrated the Golden and Silver Jubilees of nine sisters at the Bethany Provincialate, Vamanjoor. Sr Lilly Gonsalves BS, the golden star, and eight silver hues namely Sr Shanthi Pramila BS, Sr Jyothika BS, Sr Lolita Pereira BS, Sr Nandita BS, Sr Jessy Preema BS, Sr Flavia Wilma BS, Sr Maria Sunitha BS, and Sr Lydia Pinto BS were recognized, appreciated and honoured on this special occasion.
The day began with an hour of prayer, offering gratitude for the lives of the Jubilarians, acknowledging their consecration, dedication, and unwavering commitment to God. Great blessings have flowed abundantly in their lives over the years, and the entire community gathered to express their thanks.
A heartfelt felicitation program followed, where the sisters of the Province came together to honour and appreciate each Jubilarian. Each one was recognized and celebrated by the Provincial Superior, Sr M Lilly Pereira BS, and her team. Sr Lilly Pereira greeted the Jubilarians with warm words of appreciation, applauding their devoted service and tireless commitment to their religious vocation.
The climax of the Jubilee celebration was the Holy Eucharist, officiated by Rev Fr Abraham Dsouza, SVD. In his homily, Fr Abraham reflected on the words of Isaiah 52:7: “How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation.’. Fr Abraham beautifully likened the Jubilarians to these messengers of peace, praising them for their steadfast witness of faith, love, and service. He highlighted their role as bearers of God’s good news, living lives of profound consecration, bringing light and hope to many.
The celebration was a powerful reminder of the deep commitment of these sisters, whose lives have been dedicated to prayer, service, and the building of God’s Kingdom. Their unwavering faith and joyful witness of love and compassion continue to inspire the entire community. The Jubilarians’ lives stand as a testimony to the beauty of religious life, filled with grace, sacrifice, and a deep sense of mission.
Sr Leera Maria BS compered the felicitation programme. The Juniors sisters of the Province, were involved in divine invocation. The candidates welcomed the guests with dance. The members of the Province assembly, the superiors and a few members of the community together with the sisters of the community celebrated the day.
The sisters of St Raymond’s community, uplifted the occasion with a soulful melody, expressing their deep gratitude and admiration for the Jubilarians. Their harmonious voices added a special touch of reverence and festivity to the celebration.
Sr Herita Monthi Mathias BS
