The inaugural Bethany Educational Society (BES) Silchar Unit Convention took place in two locations: Mary Mount School, Aizawl, from September 26th-27th, 2024, and Holy Cross Convent School, Dharmanagar, on October 7th-8th, 2024. The convention brought together a total of 205 participants, including teachers from Mary Mount School, St Maria Goretti School, St Francis of Assisi High School, and other institutions under the BES banner. The event commenced with a vibrant inauguration ceremony, featuring an invocation dance, lamp lighting, and heartfelt gratitude to Fr Founder RFC Mascarenhas. Sr Harsha BS, Assistant Provincial Superior, welcomed the participants, while Sr Clara Mendonca BS, Provincial Superior, delivered the keynote address, officially opening the event with a symbolic gesture at both locations.
The convention focused on perpetuating the priorities of BES’s Platinum Jubilee, with notable resource persons leading various sessions. Sr Joy BS led discussions on the history and pedagogy of BES at Aizawl, while Sr Lillis BS explored the spirituality of Bethany education and the skills needed for 21st-century teaching at Dharmanagar. Other sessions covered topics such as ‘Caring for Mother Earth’ by Sr Mary Naulak BS, ‘Upholding Justice, Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity’ by Sr Clara Mendonca, and ‘Promotion of Peace and Harmony’ by Sr Melissa BS. Sr Shanthi Luhar and Sr Harsha BS discussed ‘Education for Excellence and Self-Reliance’ at Aizawl and Dharmanagar, respectively. Group discussions and interactive presentations engaged participants, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of BES’s core values and pedagogy.
Despite challenges posed by communal violence in Dharmanagar, which affected the attendance of special guests, the convention proceeded smoothly. A cultural evening at both locations showcased vibrant student performances, with Mr John LT Sanga, Joint Director of the Department of Home, Government of Mizoram, attending the event at Aizawl. Teachers and Sisters left the convention with a renewed commitment to BES's values, a common action plan to apply their learnings, and a deep sense of community. The event concluded with a message from Sr Clara Mendonca, officially marking the closure of the first BES Convention of the Silchar Province.
Sr Harsha BS
Silchar Province
