Guledgudd, 25th July:Inauguration of the BSK new building at Guledgudd on 19th July 2018
Bethany Sisters serve the people of Guledgudd in Bagalkot District since 1939 under the inspiration of our Founder, the Servant of God Msgr R. F. C Mascarenhas. Education and medical apostolate had been the main thrust. However, Sr Irene Crasta BS ventured to open a Centre “Bethany Arogya Kendra” in 2002. A mobile clinic, tailoring classes and other skill development training programmes, and SHGs were started for the emancipation of the poor, specially the women.
In 2005, the centre was renamed as Bethany Sanjivini Kendra with a special focus on the PWDs. The survey conducted by Sr Irene and Sr Cynthia Sequeira brought to light an increase in the number of PWDs. The disability caused dependency on others, and neglect by the family members. In order to uplift these helpless lives, prevention seemed a better option. A lady Mrs Vidya by name, and a sister were sent for training at the APD Centre, Bangalore, for two years. Early intervention and care meant identifying the disability from 0-6 years. They did this by establishing a tentative exercise room with lot of appliances and aids.
In 2018 the dream of a new building was realized by the grace of God and with the sacrifice of the generous donors. Sr ShanthiPriya, the General Councillor, inaugurated the Bethany Sanjivini Kendra. It is a Rehabilitation and Resource Centre for the differently able persons. Sr Assumpta, the Provincial Superior of Western Province, unveiled the plaque; the house warming ceremony took place in the presence of 300 PWDs; many priests sisters and local people were present for the programme. Rev Fr Maria Joseph blessed the Centre which was followed by a short programme. A prayer song was depicted on PPT by Sr Helen Sangpuii. Mr Sarganachari welcomed the honourable guests. A short video clipping on the mile stones of the Centre was displayed with Kannada commentary by Sr Jescilda. The guest spoke words of appreciation for the wonderful works undertaken by the Sisters, for the service of humanity. Mrs GeethaPatil DCPO promised help in whatever way she could. Mr GulabNadaf, the Child Welfare Committee President, spoke positively of the impact of the service rendered by the Centre for so many years. Mr J.S. Odeyar APD Bengaluru enlightened the people regarding the need for early intervention and the use of accessories for the PWDs. He stressed on the fact that all people have a right to live in dignity.
Sr Assumpta, the Provincial Superior of Western Province, spoke of the initial stages of the life of the sisters in Guledgudd, and that Christ King Convent is one of the houses opened by the Revered Fr Founder himself. Sr ShanthiPriya, the General Councillor, said that one right step taken by our Founder could change the history of Guledgudd. She appealed to people to avail the service of the Centre and improve the quality of the society.
Appreciating the selfless service of Sr Cynthia, the Coordinator of BSK, and SHG leaders from 3 villages honoured her with a shawl, fruits and garlands. It was a touching gesture from simple and poor people to offer gratitude unexpectedly. Sr Cynthia expressed her joy as tears welled up from her eyes. She thanked them with her blessings.
Miss Mary Zalki proposed the vote of thanks. All people dispersed after the meal, thanking the staff and sisters of the convent.
Sr Jescilda
Christ King Convent
Guledgudd