BES Conventions:

I BES CONVENTION
The Bethany Educational Society had its I Convention in the year 1988. Furthering the vision of the Servant of God, Mgr Raymond FC Mascarenhas and the Founding members, the XII General Chapter in the year 1992 stated that our goal of education is an all-round development of the human person and to establish non-violent and non-exploiting social, cultural and economic order based on a vision of life that is consistent with the Gospel and dignity of human person’.

II BES CONVENTION. THEME: EDUCATION FOR FULLNESS OF LIFE
The II Convention of BES took place from 2 – 11 October 2001 on the theme ‘Education for fullness of life. 157 sisters participated in this convention. It spelt out clearly the vision, goal and core values for BES

BES Vision: To Promote the Glory of God by the Holiness of its members and the Service of the Kingdom of God

BES Goal: Transformative Education for Fullness of life for all specially the marginalized, the poor and the girls

BES Core Values:
1. God Experience
2. Compassionate love for all, especially the Marginalized
3. Communion, Collaboration, Team Spirit
4. Excellence in Developing each one’s unique Potentialities
5. Truth, Love, Justice and Peace
6. Simplicity of Life Style and Dignity of Labour
7. Respect for Life, Nature, Cultures, Religions and Love for the Nation

III CONVENTION

THEME: TRANSFORMATIVE EDUCATION FOR FULLNESS OF LIFE
The III Convention of BES was held from 4-9, November 2008 at Bethany, Mangalore. Around 294 staff members and 154 students of BES participated in it. After the reflective process, the following priorities were evolved.

• Education for peace and harmony
• Empowerment of Girl Child
• Education for harmonious relationships
• Education excellence for all

 THE FIRST PROVINCE BES CONVENTION:

The historical event of the Bethany Educational Society Convention was held under the aegis of Northern Province which was centred on the theme “Transformative Education for Fullness of Life towards Human Fraternity” & the Core Values, in two venues i.e. St Theresa’s Convent Sen Sec School, Karnal and Sacred Heart Convent Sen Sec School, Ludhiana respectively.  The convention aimed at inspiring and empowering educators to create a holistic educational environment, grounded in values that promote personal growth, societal welfare, and global responsibility.  It also laid emphasis on imparting the Vision of Fr Founder RFC Mascarenhas and BES vision, goal and Bethany way of learning – teaching process.

1. St Theresa’s Convent Sen Sec School, Karnal :   10.2024 consisting of 225 participants including sisters
2. Sacred Heart Convent Sen Sec School, Ludhiana :   10.2024 consisting of 476 participants including sisters

The Northern Province ventured to celebrate the BES Convention for all the stakeholders under its jurisdiction the Haryana and Punjab Regions.  The momentous event of Haryana region was held on 14 October 2024 & and that of Punjab region on 21 October 2024 consecutively.  The event commenced with the ceremonial BES flag – hoisting by Sr Erasma BS the Corporate Manager of Northern Province accompanied by Sr Helen D Costa the Education Coordinator and  the entire Province Administration Team.  As the BES flag fluttered high in all its glory, the mellifluous notes of the Platinum Jubilee Anthem filled with the air depicting the fervour and gusto of the Bethany family. The opening ceremony was followed by numerous thought – provoking presentations, captivating lectures and insightful discussions.

Way Forward: The recently concluded BES Convention for the Northern Province focused on critical stimulating topics such as Spirituality of Education presented by Sr Rose Margaret BS at Karnal and Sr Joyti BS at Ludhiana emphasising on the Vision of our Founder and founding members of the Congregation. The integration of spirituality into educational practices cultivates values such as compassion, empathy, integrity, and respect for all living beings. This approach fosters not only academic success but also social harmony, global issues and personal fulfilment.

A major highlight of the convention was the tribute session dedicated to Fr. RFC Mascarenhas, a legendary figure in the field of education, particularly in the Bethany education framework. Fr Founder RFC Mascarenhas the Champion of Education by Mrs Zeena Chauhan – Ex – Teacher of the school, at Karnal and at Ludhiana by Mrs Bharti, teacher and ex – student of the school. The session explored his lifelong commitment to educational reform, focusing on his efforts to provide quality education to marginalized especially to the girl children and promote values of service and social justice.

Transformative Education for Fullness of Life by Sr Ophilia Lobo BS focused on insightful perspectives of education. She emphasised on how education can go beyond traditional academic training to foster personal transformation, leading to a fuller and more meaningful life. Transformative education, as defined during the session, aims to bring about deep, lasting change in individuals, equipping them not only with skills for employment but also with the emotional, social, and spiritual tools needed for living a fulfilled life.

My Earth My Responsibility by Fr Xavier Savarimuttu S J from St Xavier’s College, Jaipur through his eloquence and appeal made the audience see the glaring impacts of climate change as a consequence of global warming. It is the collective responsibility of the staff, students and the society to spread awareness towards this climate change.  His impressive message was on the importance of including sustainability as an essential element in the educational domain.

The day long convention marked the beginning of something new – a future full of possibilities and most importantly, transformative education.

The BES Convention of the Northern Province successfully fostered a deep reflection on the role of education in shaping not only the intellect but also the soul of individuals. The discussions on Spirituality in Education, the tribute to Fr. RFC Mascarenhas, the vision for Transformative Education, and the urgent call for Environmental Responsibility have inspired a new wave of educators committed to nurturing students who are not only knowledgeable but also ethical, compassionate, and responsible global citizens.

The convention reinforced the importance of viewing education through a holistic lens, integrating spiritual values, social responsibility, and environmental consciousness into the educational process. It is clear that the future of education lies in embracing these transformative approaches, ensuring that education serves the fullness of life for both individuals and the planet as a whole