"Servant of God Raymond Mascarenhas: A Model of Synodal Discipleship—Cardinal Ferrão in Mangalore"

MANGALORE, 1 March 2025 – The Congregation of the Sisters of the Little Flower of Bethany in Mangalore marked the twin Jubilee celebrating the 150th birth anniversary and the 125th anniversary of the priestly ordination of Servant of God Raymond Francis Camillus Mascarenhas on 28 February. The event included a felicitation program and a solemn Eucharistic celebration, presided over by Archbishop Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrão. Bishop Peter Paul Saldanha delivered the homily.

Speaking at the felicitation, Cardinal Ferrão reflected on the significance of Msgr. Raymond’s life and mission. “We are living in challenging times—on one side, we are engaged in the synodal journey that Pope Francis invited us to participate in, and on the other, we are in this Jubilee Year with the theme ‘Pilgrims of Hope.’ I see Monsignor Raymond as a powerful model of synodal discipleship and synodal priestly ministry,” he said.

The Cardinal, who is also the President of the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI), described Msgr. Raymond as a "true servant of God" who dedicated his life to faith, education, and the upliftment of the poor. “His life was lived with an unwavering dedication to the glory of God and the well-being of His people,” he stated.

He credited Fr. Raymond’s founding of the Congregation of the Sisters of the Little Flower of Bethany as his magnum opus—an institution dedicated to Catholic education, religious instruction, and providing a sanctuary for young women devoted to God’s service.

“In every challenge, he saw an opportunity to manifest God’s love,” said Cardinal Ferrão, noting Fr. Raymond’s visionary leadership and ability to identify and address needs that others overlooked.

The Bethany Sisters’ legacy continues to thrive globally, serving in three continents and across 66 dioceses. “This vast and growing legacy is a testament to Fr. Raymond’s vision—rooted in faith, service, and the transformative power of education,” said the Prelate. He highlighted the Sisters’ contributions to Christian education, pastoral work, and social outreach.

Cardinal Ferrão underscored their founder’s belief in the power of Catholic education to shape young minds, particularly girls. “He saw education as a tool for liberation, a means to break the chains of ignorance and poverty,” he said.

In closing, the Cardinal prayed that the legacy of Servant of God Raymond Mascarenhas would continue to inspire and shine through the work of the Bethany Sisters. He also expressed his hope that Msgr. Raymond would soon be recognised for sainthood, stating, “We need more saints from India!”

By Br. Malvino Alfonso, OCD