The Province Day of Mangalore Province was celebrated on 8th November 2025 at Assisi Central School, Bagambila, with the theme “Caring for Creation, Healing the World.” The celebration beautifully reflected the unity, gratitude, and mission of the Ursuline Franciscan family.
The Province Day of Mangalore Province was celebrated on 8th November 2025 at Assisi Central School, Bagambila, with the theme “Caring for Creation, Healing the World.” The celebration beautifully reflected the unity, gratitude, and mission of the Ursuline Franciscan family.
The day began with a melodious opening chorus, followed by the inaugural ceremony that included the unveiling of a meaningful symbol. The Eucharistic Celebration was officiated by Rev. Fr. Daniel Vegas, O.P., Episcopal Vicar for religious, Mangalore Diocese. The Eucharist invited all to deepen their commitment to nurturing life and protecting the environment.
Sr Clara Menezes Provincial Superior of Mangalore Province welcomed the dignitaries and the gathering. During the formal ceremony six Sisters, Sr Violet Sequeira, Sr Esther D Mello, Sr Irene Menezes, Sr Christine Andrade, Sr Lucia Dsouza, and Sr Rosy Dsouza were honoured for their dedicated service in house administration, Sr. Leona Nisha Galbao, Sr Shanthi Dsouza and Sr Sandra Rodrigues were recognized for their excellence in academics, and Sr Luciana Pinto was felicitated for receiving the Dakshina Kannada Rajyotsava award.
The chief guest, Mr. Michael D’Souza, a philanthropist, attended the celebration along with his wife, Mrs. Flevia D’Souza, and committee members. Both Mr. and Mrs. D’Souza were honoured for their generous contributions towards the Province.
The president of the celebration, Rev. Sr Milly Fernandes, Superior General of the Ursuline Franciscan Congregation, addressed the gathering, inviting everyone to care for the Earth and to be responsible stewards of creation. She reminded the Sisters of their collective mission to bring healing and hope to the world through their service and witness.
The gathering was graced by the presence of all the Sisters from the Province, along with Sr Annie M.A., Provincial Superior of the Mysore Province; Sr Gretta Sanjivani D’Souza, Provincial Superior of Hubballi; Sr Sumana Pinto, Delegate Superior of the Central Delegation; and their Councillors. The Councillors General were present for the occasion and Sisters from the neighboring communities joined in the event, enhancing the spirit of unity and festivity.
A beautiful tableau depicting the importance of caring for creation followed the honoring ceremony. In the afternoon, the celebration continued with a zonal cultural activities on the theme adding colour and vibrancy to the Province Day.
The day concluded with expressions of gratitude and joy, as the Province united in prayer, celebration, and commitment to the mission of love, care, and healing.
