Udupi, Oct. 1 2023: St Cecily’s Institutions, Udupi was abuzz with excitement on Sunday, October 1, 2023 as it celebrated the bicentennial birth anniversary of Ven. Mother Veronica, the Founder of The Apostolic Carmel Congregation.
The occasion was marked not only by commemorative activities for students but also by a noble gesture – a blood donation drive, reflecting Mother Veronica’s ethos of selfless service. The blood donation drive was organized in collaboration with District Hospital, Ajjarkad, Udupi. The event aimed to strengthen the bond between the school and the local community.
A dedicated area was set up where willing donors could contribute to this lifesaving cause. The event saw an overwhelming response, with numerous people lining up to donate blood, thereby potentially saving countless lives.
The celebration began with a solemn inaugural graced by Mrs Veronica Cornelio, spokeperson KPCC, and former president of Taluk panchayat who was the chief guest for the event , Guest of Honour-Dr Veena Kumari, District surgeon, District Hospital, Udupi along with local authorities, alumni , parents and members of the religious community. The Superior of St Cecily’s Convent, Sr Therese Jyothi A.C. accorded a warm welcome to the dignitaries and participants. A special prayer service was held to invoke blessings on the proceedings and participants.
The inauguration of the blood donation drive was done in a unique and symbolic manner by Mrs Veronica Cornelio, Dr Veena Kumari, Sr Therese Jyothi A.C. and Sr Chethana, Superior, Maria Goretti Convent, Kemmanu . In her presidential address, Mrs Veronica Cornelio paid her tribute to Ven. Mother Veronica and appreciated the services of the A.C. sisters. She also shared the joy she had experienced on donating blood for the first time and mentioned the benefits of blood donation. Dr Veena in her message to the gathering lauded the noble way of celebrating the bicentenary and gave detailed insight about blood donation.
Ms Bhargavi, Teacher of St Cecily’s English Pry. School proposed the vote of thanks and Sr Vibha A.C., Headmistress, St Cecily’s Kannada Pry. School compered the inaugural programme.
Thus the bicentennial celebration of Ven Mother Veronica at St. Cecily’s, Udupi, was a resounding success reaffirming Mother Veronica’s enduring principles of education, compassion, and empowerment.