Mangalore Diocese News

Report by Sr Anna Maria BS

Mangaluru, Jan 29 : On January 28th 2023, the Golden Jubilee of Religious Profession of Sr Benignus BS belonging to St Joseph’s Convent, Shubadha, Suralpady was celebrated at Ozanam Home for the Aged, Santhekatte, Kallianpur. The Thanksgiving Eucharistic Celebration was held at 11.00am. It was officiated by Rev Fr Valerian Mendonca the Rector of Milagres Cathedral, Kallianpur and co-officiated by Rev Fr Charles Menezes, Rev Fr Elias Martis, Rev Fr Patrick and Rev Fr Aloysius Lewis. In his homily Fr Charles Menezes highlighted the faith response of Sr Benignus to commit herself to God through Religious life. He appreciated her committed life of 50 years in the service of the Lord and His people in different parts of India and Africa.

After the Mass there was a felicitation programme held in the Ozanam Campus. Mr Charles Gomes, the nephew of Sr Benignus welcomed the guests and the gathered members on the occasion. Along with Sr Benignus, Mr Thomas Aranha, her brother, Rev Fr Valerian Mendonca, Sr Herita Monthi BS, the Superior of St Joseph’s Convent, Shubadha, Suralpady were present on the dais. Sr Benignus carved the Jubilee cake. She was felicitated with a greeting song by St Joseph’s Community members. Later she was honoured with a shawl and garland along with citation. Mr Jerald Aranha the nephew of Sr Benignus shared the reminiscences of her life in the family. Sr Anna Maria BS acknowledged the compassionate services of Sr Benignus in Bethany Family and her compassionate service towards humanity. Rev Fr Valerian Mendonca applauded her notable service in the Church and in the Society. He acknowledged her accompaniment at Ozanam Old age home with the inmates.

At the outset the programme began with a Prayer dance by Sharal Lobo. The programme was winded with the grateful note by the Jubilarian appreciating the role played by the parents, family members and the members of the Congregation in shaping her life. She also thanked all the members responsible for holding the day’s programme. It was followed by a fellowship meal arranged by the family. Her family members, friends, Bethany Sisters and the inmates of Ozanam Old Age Home graced the occasion.