The Congregation of the Sisters of the Little Flower of Bethany, Mangalore joyfully celebrated the 150th birth anniversary of its Founder, SD Raymond Francis Camillus Mascarenhas, at the Sacred Heart Cathedral, Shimoga on 23 January 2025. This sacred site holds immense significance as the birthplace and baptismal church of our beloved Founder.
The solemn Holy Eucharist was presided over by Most Rev Bishop Francis Serrao, the Bishop of the Diocese of Shimoga. He was joined by Fr Stany D'Souza, the Vicar General and parish priest and eight concelebrating priests. Sr Winnifred, the Assistant Provincial Superior, warmly introduced the gathering to the life and legacy of SD RFC Mascarenhas, emphasizing his passion for proclaiming God’s word and unwavering commitmentto serving the poor and marginalised.
Sr Margaret D'Souza proclaimed the scripture readings, and Bishop Francis Serrao delivered a soul stirring homily. Reflecting on the Founder's life of holiness, missionary zeal, prophetic witness the bishop acknowledged SD RFC Mascarenhas’ profound love for the neglected and the downtrodden of the society. Prayer of the faithful was led by Sr Geetha Pinto. Sr Cynthia Pais concluded the ceremony with a heartfelt vote of thanks.
Following the Eucharistic celebration, the faithful gathered to pay their tribute to SD RFC Mascarenhas. In a solemn and spiritual gesture, the bishop, priests, sisters, and parishioners paid their respects by strewing flowers to his portrait, expressing love and reverence to Fr Raymond.
The event was graced by the presence of Sr Mariette, General Counsellor, along with representatives from the Generalate community, Bethany Mother House community, Mangalore and Western Provinces. Sr Sahana, the Provincial Superior of Bangalore Province, alongside Sr Winnifred and Sr Cynthia, Provincial Counsellors, Sr Helen Rebello, Province Procurator, Sr Mariola, Asst Provincial Superior, Mangalore Province, Sr Anitha Shanthi, Provincial Counsellor, Western Province, sisters from St Joseph's Convent, Sagar, Jeevan Jyothi Ashram, Mankalale, Bethany Convent, Shimoga and Kable. Approximately 100 parishioners participated in this sacred veneration.
After the Mass, cake was distributed to the participants, and the priests and Sisters shared an agape meal at the presbytery which symbolized the unity and joyful gratitude of all present.
On this memorable occasion which coincides with the Jubilee year 2025 we fervently pray that his life continues to inspire us. May his fervent devotion to Mother Mary and his compassionate love for the needy and suffering, serve as a beacon of hope, guiding us toward lives of service and compassion. We humbly pray that his sanctity may one day be recognized by the universal Church, and that he may be raised to the honours of the altar.
News By:Sr Tresa Lydia BS, Jeevan Jyothi, Mankalale