Seven Sisters from the Society of Helpers of Mary Make Perpetual Vows in Goa

GOA, 5 April 2025: In a solemn celebration, seven Sisters from the Society of the Helpers of Mary made their perpetual profession at Nitya Seva Niketan in Rivona, Goa, on April 5, 2025. The Eucharistic Celebration was presided over by Bishop Simião Fernandes, Auxiliary Bishop of Goa and Daman, and concelebrated by several priests.

Delivering a homily on the theme “Anchored in God’s Love, Sailing with Hope”, Bishop Simião urged the faithful and professed sisters to fix their gaze on the Cross, drawing strength from God’s unwavering love and becoming visible signs of hope in the world. Reflecting on the Bull of Indiction for the Jubilee Year 2025 by Pope Francis, he emphasised, “Let the Cross be the anchor of life.” He highlighted that prayer, deep engagement with the Word of God, and active participation in the Sacraments are the surest ways to remain rooted in God's love.

“Anchored in God’s love, we are called to sail with hope – and to give hope,” he added, encouraging the congregation to live out the Jubilee spirit by becoming beacons of faith, courage, and compassion in their communities. The Bishop congratulated the professed sisters on their commitment.

The seven Sisters who made their perpetual vows are:

Sr. Anita Harnodkar, Sr. Gloria Mascarenhas, and Sr. Margaret Diggekar (Karwar Diocese, Karnataka); Sr. Mini Hembram (Balasore Diocese, Odisha); Sr. Bijeswari (Berhampur Diocese, Odisha); Sr. Sahaya Lourd (Kottar Diocese, Tamil Nadu); and Sr. Shobha Albert (Vellore Diocese, Tamil Nadu).

These Sisters first professed their vows on May 31, 2017, and have now committed themselves perpetually to the service of God and His people. Their final profession was received by Sr. Pushpy Alappadan, Superior General of the Society of the Helpers of Mary, who congratulated the professed and reminded them of the challenges ahead in their mission.

Speaking to Catholic Connect, Sr. Gladys D’Souza, Provincial Superior, commended the newly professed sisters for their courage and dedication. “These seven perpetually professed sisters have plunged into the heart of the world’s challenges, bearing God’s love and peace to all people,” she said. “They have taken an oath to ‘sail in hope,’ committed to carrying the message of God especially to the least and the lost.”

Sr. D’Souza expressed hope that their commitment would inspire more young women to discern their vocations. “May their dedication inspire and assure young girls everywhere to respond generously to God’s call,” she added.

The celebration was a moment of joy and grace, marking the Sisters’ lifelong dedication to their mission of love and service in the footsteps of Christ.

The Society of the Helpers of Mary is a women’s congregation with 70 branches across India, Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, and Italy. Its Generalate is in Andheri West, Mumbai, with provinces in Varanasi, Vasai, and Rivona-Goa. Guided by the motto "Live for love," the Society continues its mission of transforming lives and fostering hope.

By Br. Malvino Alfonso OCD

Image credit: Sr. Amulia SHM