The Congregation of the Sisters of the Little Flower of Bethany (Bethany Sisters) celebrate the centenary of its foundation in the year 2021. To mark this great event it is planned to build 100 houses for the poor in those areas where Bethany Sisters serve in India. Bethany Generalate has taken up to build 8 houses in the Parishes where Mgr Raymond Francis Camillus Mascarenhas the Founder of Bethany had some noteworthy milestones of his life and Priestly ministry.
‘Ashirwad’ the first Bethany Centenary Memorial house is built and blessed on 10th June 2019 in Milagres Parish, Mangalore. While expounding the significance and the purpose of building this house in Milagres Parish Sr. Christine Noronha – Procurator General said Mgr Raymond FC Mascarenhas received first communion, had his basic studies and celebrated his first thanksgiving mass after his Priestly Ordination in this Parish.
Sr. Rose Celine, Superior General unveiled the plaque, Sr. ShanthiPriya, General Councillor declared the house open symbolically by cutting the ribbon and Fr. Valerian the Parish Priest of Milagres Parish lead the prayer and blessed the house.
A short programme was organised by SVP members wherein floral welcome was extended to the dignitaries. Sr. Rose Celine BS acquainted the gathering about Bethany Congregation and the mission of Bethany Sisters, the decision to build 100 houses for the poor to mark the centenary and the criteria of identifying the deserving catholicfamilies. She thanked Fr. Valerian for his ready co-operation and blessing the house. SVP – Unit Milagres Parish played a vital role in identifying the deserving family.
A special mention was made of the contribution made by Mr. Roy Rodrigues for his architectural consultancy services, Mr. Daniel Menezes & Mrs. Philomena Menezes formonitoring the progress of the project diligently in collaboration with the Sr. Shanthi Priya and Sr.Christine. Mr. Edward D’Souza the contractor was appreciated for his neat work and completion of the project within the stipulated time.
Symbolically the key of the house was handed over to Mrs. Wilma Falcao and wished the entire family peace, happiness and wellbeing in the house.The short programme was concluded by praying the prayer for the beatification of the Servant of God Mgr. Raymond Francis Camillus Mascarenhas.
Mr. Winston D’souza welcomed the gathering; Mr. Ivan D’souza proposed the vote of thanks and Mrs. Hilda Rodrigues compeered the programme.
Sr Christine
Procurator General