March 04: The BES Convention held on 5th February 2025 at Bethany Convent High School (BCHS) brought together educators from Bethany Convent High School, Sao Jose de Areal, and St Sebastian High School, Loliem. The event commenced with Sr Shanti Priya, Assistant Superior General of the Bethany Congregation and Vice-President of Bethany Education Society, ® Mangalore, Sr Sally, Provincial Superior of Western Province, Sr Michelle, Councillor and Coordinator of Bethany Educational Society ® Mangalore, Convention Goa), Sr. Ida Lobo, Manager of BCHS, Sr Juliana Lucy Manager of St. Sebastian School), Sr Flavia D’Souza, Headmistress of BCHS, Sr Jennifer, Headmistress of St. Sebastian School and two teacher representatives entering the auditorium with lighted lamps. This was followed by the singing of the Bethany Anthem.
The opening prayer was led by Sr Sandra, invoking divine blessings for the convention. The dignitaries paid tribute to the Founder of the Institution, Fr. Raymond Francis Camillus Mascarenhas, by garlanding his portrait, followed by a graceful prayer dance performed by the students. Sr. Sally officially declared the convention open, setting the stage for a day filled with insightful discussions and presentations.
Theme of the Convention:
The focus of the convention was rooted in the vision of Fr. Founder, Fr. Raymond Francis Camillus Mascarenhas, and the BES Platinum priorities outlined in the General Chapter Trust. These priorities are as follows:
• Upholding Justice, Equality, Liberty, and Fraternity
• Promoting Peace and Harmony
• Education for Excellence & Self-Reliance
• Caring for Mother Earth
Key Highlights of the Convention:
Sr Shanti Priya emphasized the legacy of Fr. Founder as a trendsetter, social thinker, and reformer. She highlighted his contributions to education and the empowerment of women and girls. Sr. Shanti Priya encouraged educators to incorporate the Gandhian Principle of the 3 H’s (Head, Heart, and Hand) into their teaching practices. She also stressed the importance of instilling values such as Justice, Equality, Liberty, and Fraternity among students.
Fr. Savio Fernandes facilitated a group discussion on the theme of Peace and Harmony. The session explored the importance of fostering inner peace through values such as forgiveness and reconciliation. The session concluded with the idea that true peace begins within oneself.
Prof. Prabhakar Timble presented insights on achieving Excellence and Self-Reliance in education. He emphasized the need to boost students' self-confidence, critical thinking, and decision-making skills to prepare them for the challenges of the future.
Fr Bolmax Pereira addressed the theme of Caring for the Mother Earth. He drew upon Pope Francis's writings, particularly his calls for global action to protect the environment. Fr. Pereira urged educators to nurture environmental consciousness in their students and treat the planet with the care and respect it deserves.
Conclusion
The BES Convention concluded with a sense of reflection, growth, and renewed inspiration. Educators left the event with valuable insights and strategies for fostering excellence, peace, and environmental stewardship in their students. The event successfully reinforced the shared vision of the BES community and its dedication to holistic education.
Mrs Henria Menezes
Bethany Convent High School, Sao Jose de Areal
