Bangalore Archdiocese

By Sr Cynthia Pais BS

Shivamogga, Jan 24, 2025 : It was a historic moment of celebration as the Congregation of the Sisters of the Little Flower of Bethany came together to celebrate the twin jubilee: the 150th birth anniversary and the 125th ordination anniversary of their Founder, the Servant of God Raymond Francis Camillus Mascarenhas. He was born in Shimoga, Karnataka, on January 23, 1875, and was baptized on January 27, 1875, at Sacred Heart Cathedral, Shimoga. He was ordained on March 4, 1900, at Rosario Cathedral, Mangalore. He was declared Servant of God on June 3, 2008. Therefore, it was fitting that the twin jubilee be celebrated in his native land at Sacred Heart Cathedral, Shimoga.

A solemn Eucharist was officiated by Most Rev. Dr. Francis Serrao, Bishop of Shimoga, accompanied by Rev. Fr. Stany D'Souza, the Vicar General of Shimoga Diocese, along with many priests, Bethany Sisters, lay faithful, and sisters from other congregations.

This is a momentous occasion, as the cause for his beatification is being pursued with great momentum. He is hailed as a visionary, a champion of education, a media pioneer, and a person who stood for the rights of the poor and women. We are proud of him. May he be raised to the honours of the Altar.