St. John’s Campus Day Celebrates Legacy of Service, Excellence and Community Spirit

Bengaluru, 24 June 2026: St. John’s National Academy of Health Sciences celebrated its annual Campus Day with great fervour and enthusiasm, bringing together faculty, staff, students and well-wishers in a joyful expression of gratitude, unity, and institutional pride. More than 2,000 people participated in the celebrations held at the Main Auditorium of the campus.

The day commenced with a solemn Eucharistic Celebration marking the Solemnity of St. John the Baptist, the patron saint of the institution. Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara, Deputy Secretary General of the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI), was the principal celebrant. The Holy Mass was concelebrated by Fr. Jesudass Rajamanickam, Director of St. John’s National Academy of Health Sciences; Fr. Thomas Kalam, CMI, former Director; Fr. Tony A. J. MSFS; Fr. Ajith Kerketa; Fr. Ajith Menezes; Fr. Madali Muthu; Fr. Bob Thomas; and several other priests serving and pursuing studies at the institution.

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One of the most moving moments of the liturgy was the solemn entrance procession led by more than fifty Heads of Departments carrying lighted lamps. They processed to the altar and invoked the intercession of St. John the Baptist, symbolically offering their departments and ministries to God. The gesture beautifully reflected the family spirit, unity, and inclusiveness that characterize the St. John’s community.

Rev. Dr. Stephen Alathara was also the Chief Guest at the public function held in the afternoon. In his address, he emphasized the importance of compassionate service, professional excellence, and dedication to the healing ministry. He commended St. John’s for its unwavering commitment to forming healthcare professionals who combine competence with compassion and service with integrity.

Welcoming the gathering, Fr. Jesudass Rajamanickam reflected on the remarkable journey of St. John’s and its continuing mission of providing quality healthcare, education, research, and community outreach. He expressed gratitude to all who have contributed to the growth and reputation of the institution over the decades.

A highlight of the programme was the felicitation of 39 staff members who completed 25 years of dedicated service to St. John’s Medical College and its various institutions. Their steadfast commitment and invaluable contributions were recognized with mementoes and special gifts, drawing warm appreciation from the audience.

The celebrations were further enriched by a vibrant cultural programme presented by members of the teaching faculty, administrative staff, and directors. The performances showcased the artistic talents within the St. John’s family and created an atmosphere of joy, fellowship, and celebration. The programme concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks proposed by Mr. Clarence Punit Kumar of the Information Technology Department,

Established in 1963 by the Catholic Bishops of India, St. John’s National Academy of Health Sciences has grown into one of the country’s leading institutions for medical education, healthcare, nursing, allied health sciences, and research. For more than six decades, it has remained committed to its founding vision of excellence in service, particularly in caring for the poor, the marginalized, and the underserved. Its graduates and healthcare professionals continue to make significant contributions across India and around the world.

The Campus Day celebrations served as a fitting tribute to the enduring legacy of St. John’s and reaffirmed its mission of integrating professional excellence with human compassion. The event concluded with a renewed commitment to uphold the institution’s values and continue its distinguished tradition of service to humanity.

By Catholic Connect Reporter