PANAJI
The Society of the Helpers of Mary celebrated 50 years of dedicated service at Nitya Seva Niketan in Rivona on January 23.
The occasion also marked the 50 years of Religious Profession of Sr Rukmini Cardozo SHM.
Archbishop of Goa Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrão presided over the solemn Eucharistic Celebration, while the concelebrants were Fr Joaquim Rebelo SFX (Provincial Superior of the Society of Pilar), Fr Mario Pereira SFX (Parish Priest of Our Lady of the Rosary Church, Rivona), Fr Gabriel Fernandes OFM Cap, (President of CRI-Goa Unit), Fr Romeo D’Silva SFX, (Dean of Sanguem Deanery) and several other priests.
Drawing inspiration from the congregational motto of the Society of the Helpers of Mary, ‘Live for Love’, in his homily, Archbishop Ferrão described the jubilee as a celebration of fifty years of the Sisters’ presence and ministry in the parish, deanery, and archdiocese.
He noted that the Society of the Helpers of Mary at Rivona over the past five decades have been providing service to children, the elderly, young people, and parishioners.
Sr Leena Nazareth SHM, Superior of Nitya Seva Niketan, Rivona, later proposed the vote of thanks.
The programme following the Eucharistic Celebration began with the Congregational Anthem and a welcome dance by the Bal Nivas children, followed by a warm welcome to the dignitaries.
Cultural performances included a traditional Goan dance by parishioners and a remix dance by the Bal Nivas children. The cultural programme was anchored by Frana Lobo.
Dr Umesh, benefactors, and the Sisters were also felicitated in appreciation of their dedicated service.
Speaking on the occasion, Sr Annie Fernandes SHM, Superior General, expressed deep gratitude to God for fifty years of a mission born of faith and courage, which has grown into a beacon of compassionate service.
She honoured the pioneer Sisters and congratulated Sr Rukmini Cardozo SHM on her fifty years of consecrated life, acknowledging the dedication and commitment of all the Sisters who have contributed to the growth of the mission.
Nitya Seva Niketan, Rivona, a mission of the Society of the Helpers of Mary founded in 1942, began its service on May 22, 1976 in response to a pastoral invitation.
Beginning with medical and maternal care through dispensaries and mobile clinics, it gradually expanded to education, children’s care, women empowerment, agricultural sustainability, and social outreach.
Milestones include the Children’s Home, HIV/AIDS Care Centre, Imelda Ghar, and self-help groups. Today, it continues as a vibrant witness of faith, service, and compassion.
