21st of October 2024 marked the inauguration of a momentous event in the chronicles of Bethany Education Society, it marked the inception and successful culmination of the BES Convention, Northern Province. Sacred Heart Convent Senior Secondary School, Ludhiana, under the aegis of Provincial Administration-Northern Province,organized an enlightening convention on the theme ‘Transformative Education for the fullness of life through Human Fraternity’ for members of six schools from Punjab.The event started with the ceremonial flag-hoisting by the Corporate Manager, Northern Province, Sr. Erasma accompanied with the entire Provincial Administration team.As the BES flag fluttered high in all its glory, the mellifluous notes of the Platinum Jubilee Anthem filled the air depicting the fervor and gusto of the Bethany family. The opening ceremony was followed by numerous thought-provoking presentations, captivating lectures and insightful discussions.
Education and its Spiritual Dimension
The convention started with a stimulating session by Sr. Jyoti BS associating the pursuit of education to a spiritual journey.Sister emphasized on the vision of our founding father, Father Mascarenhas who professed that true education was not just for the mind, but for the soul.
RFC Mascarenhas: A champion who lives on as the soul of Bethany
The second session was conducted by Mrs. Bharti, faculty member at Sacred Heart Convent School to throw light on Father RFC Mascarenhas and his legacy. The session made way for the realization of the fact that Father Mascarenhas is the “soul” of Bethany who lives on through the members of the Bethany Educational Society; through the educators engaged in the noble profession of teaching; and through the students who are illuminated by the knowledge they receive.
Education ismore than just ‘literacy’
The third session started off with an energized audience seeking wisdom fromSr. Ophilia Lobo’s insightful perspectives. Focusing keenly on the different levels of consciousness, Sr acquainted the audience about how they could bring about a transformative change in each students’ life. She reiterated the constructive role of a teacher in a students’ pursuit of purpose and provided practical tips that can greatly enhance the teaching-learning experience.
Need of the hour: Educating students on Sustainability
Fr. Xavier Savarimuthu SJ through his eloquence and appeal made the audience see the glaring impacts of climate change as a consequence of global warming. Indeed, the role of students and teachers in spreading this awareness is instrumental to bringing about a change. A fun and interactive session finally came to an end with Father Xavier’s message on the importance of including sustainability as an essential element in the educational domain.
It is rightly said,
“If you want a happy ending, that depends, of course, on where you stop your story.”
-Orson Welles
The convention may have been a day-long event but it marked the beginning of something new- a future full of possibilities, change, and most importantly, transformation.