Bon Secours Congregation Inaugurates New Generalate Building in Mylapore

Chennai, February 8, 2025: The Franciscan Sisters of Bon Secours Congregation inaugurated their new Generalate Building at Bon Secours Convent in Mylapore, Chennai, on February 6, 2025. The momentous inauguration ceremony, attended by clergy, religious leaders, and members of the congregation, was presided over by Most Rev. Dr. George Antonysamy, Archbishop of Madras-Mylapore and President of TNBC/TNLBC.

A Day of Consecration and Dedication

The event commenced with the blessing of the Secretariat cum Residence at the building and the consecration of the on-site chapel. Very Rev. Dr. Maria Philomi FBS, Superior General of the Bon Secours Congregation and President of TNCRI, inaugurated the Main Gate and Office cum Residence.

In a bid to preserve its rich legacy, the congregation also inaugurated a Museum, dedicated to chronicling the journey of the Bon Secours Sisters. Additionally, a library was blessed and inaugurated by Rev. Fr. Jebamalai Raja S.J., Jesuit Provincial of Chennai and TNCRI Executive Member.

Key facilities, including the Archives Room, Conference Hall, and Auditorium, were blessed and opened by esteemed guests such as Rev. Fr. Vincent Chinnadurai (Parish Priest, Santhome Cathedral), Rev. Fr. C. Joe Arun S.J. (Chairman, State Minorities Commission, Tamil Nadu), and Rev. Fr. Dr. Xavier Arul Raj (Senior Advocate, High Court of Madras). The auditorium was formally inaugurated by Mother M. Arockiam FSJ, Superior General of the Franciscan Sisters of St. Joseph.

A Celebration of Community and Spirituality

The celebration of the Holy Eucharist, presided over by Archbishop George Antonysamy and concelebrated by several priests, served as the spiritual high point of the inauguration ceremony. The event also featured cultural programs that were compered by Rev. Dr. Annal Rita Rani FBS, General Secretary of Bon Secours Congregation. These programs included a vibrant dance performance by Bons Natyalaya from Dindigul. Rev. Sr. Pauline Agnes FBS, Assistant Superior General of Bon Secours, delivered the welcome address at the beginning of the cultural program. At the end of the program, Rev. Dr. Mariammal FBS offered the vote of thanks, in which she expressed gratitude to all those who contributed to the organizing of the event.

A Testament to Faith and Service

The newly constructed Generalate Building stands as a symbol of the Franciscan Sisters of Bon Secours’ commitment to its mission. The selection of Mylapore, a historical and spiritual hub, holds deep significance, as it was here that the Bon Secours Congregation first established its presence in the Archdiocese of Madras-Mylapore. Beyond being an administrative center, the Generalate will serve as a hub for governance, formation, and mission outreach, enhancing the congregation’s ability to serve the Church and society.

As they step into this new chapter, the Franciscan Sisters of Bon Secours reaffirm their commitment to their charism—caring for orphans, educating young girls, healing the sick, and uplifting the poor. With a strong legacy behind them and a renewed vision for the future, they continue to be a beacon of hope and transformation in Mylapore and beyond.

By Fr. Ritchie Vincent

Secretary, Commission for Social CommunicationsArchdiocese of Madras-Mylapore