Bethany Sisters Lead Grand Celebration for Servant of God Raymond Mascarenhas’ Twin Jubilee
Mangalore hosted a grand Twin Jubilee Celebration at St. Sebastian Church, Bendur, marking the 150th birth anniversary and 125th priestly ordination of Servant of God Raymond Francis Camillus Mascarenhas, founder of the Bethany Sisters.
Eucharistic Celebration
A solemn Eucharistic Mass at 4:30 pm was led by Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrao (Archbishop of Goa and Daman), with Bishop Peter Paul Saldanha (Mangalore) delivering a homily emphasizing Fr. Mascarenhas’ faith, service to the poor, and devotion to the Eucharist and Mother Mary. Five other bishops, priests, Bethany Sisters, and family members attended. A special prayer was offered at Fr. Mascarenhas’ tomb, seeking his canonization.
Felicitation & Unveiling of Projects
A felicitation program followed, including a welcome dance, a documentary (“Saintly Son of the Soil”), and speeches by church dignitaries and relatives. Key initiatives launched in honor of Fr. Mascarenhas included:
- Seminarian Formation Project (Jeppu)
- Pastoral Care Initiative (Shimoga Diocese)
- Green Revolution Initiative (2,000 saplings planted)
- Training of 200 Special Evangelizers
- Nursery Teachers’ Training for Rural Girls
- Educational support for riot-affected children (Manipur) & school dropouts (Tanzania)
Commemorative Releases & Address
Cardinal Ferrao released the Konkani translation of “Unless the Seed Dies”, highlighting Fr. Mascarenhas’ synodal discipleship, priestly ministry, and contribution to education. Bishop Saldanha released a special souvenir and praised the Bethany Sisters’ commitment to pastoral, educational, and healthcare services.
Superior General Sr. Rose Celine reaffirmed Fr. Mascarenhas’ legacy of faith in action, inspiring service to marginalized communities.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks, a festive meal, and reflections on Fr. Mascarenhas’ ongoing impact on faith, education, and social service.
