Mangalore Diocese News

Media Release

Belthangady, Dec 7 : “I give thanks to you, O Lord my God, with my whole heart, and I will glorify your name forever.” (Psalm 86:12)

Year 2020 was a unique year for the Ursuline Franciscan Sisters of St Therese Convent Belthangady as they celebrated the platinum jubilee of their existence there. On June 1st, 1945 Ursuline Franciscan sisters arrived in Belthangady, the Pioneering members being Srs Genevieve Castelino, Esperanace Rego, Bernarda D’Souza, Marie Dulcis Braganza and Assumpta Lobo. Their task was defined as catechizing, teaching in the school, and assisting the parish priest in the activities of the parish, especially the sacristy. Teaching in the school was one of the objectives of their presence at Belthangady. They aimed not merely at imparting academics but also the values of the Kingdom. The School recorded incredible progress over the years. The Sisters continue to find joy in the service of God’s people at Belthangady. Their labour in the Parish and School has borne fruit.

The seed that was sown has grown into a tree, spreading itself with an intention of giving its shelter to the people of its surrounding. Sisters of St. Therese Convent, Belthangady feel proud to be a part of Platinum Jubilee celebration and thank God for the gift of 75 years of undaunted service over there.

The year 2020 was a Golden lettered year for the sisters of Ursuline Franciscan Congregation, Mangalore Province as they celebrated the Platinum Jubilee of St Therese Convent, Belthangady. December 6th 2020, was a day of joy and jubilation. The day’s event began with a meaningful thanksgiving Holy Eucharist celebrated by Rev. Fr, Joseph Cardoza, parish priest of Holy Redeemer Church, Belthangady together with the parishioners. Fr Joseph in his introduction appreciated and thanked the sisters for their selfless service and active collaboration in the pastoral and education mission.

After the Holy Mass Provincial Superior, Sr Rita Vas thanked the past and present parish priests, their assistants and the parishioners, specially the Ursuline Franciscan Lay associates for their cooperation in all the activities of the parish. Because of the present situation of pandemic and as a loving gesture, snacks were offered to all the people. Later on there was a short felicitation programme in the convent premises together with Rev Sr Lilly Pinto Councilors General, Provincial Team and the sisters of Venur Zone.

On behalf of Superior General Sr Lilly Pinto in her address gratefully acknowledged the services of the sisters over the years. Sr. Anita Rodrigues, superior of the convent, welcomed the gathering and Sr Leena D’Souza compeered the programme.

St. Therese Convent sisters and formees through their melodious angelic choir sang the Jubilee song and with the Jubilee meal the programme came to its conclusion.