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Platinum Jubilee Conclave

On the evening of 11th July 2024, the Notre Dame community gathered online to celebrate the Platinum Jubilee, marking 75 years of dedicated service by the Sisters of Notre Dame in India. The conclave called for by Sr. Chetana, Provincial Superior of the Visitation Province, Bangalore was anchored by Ms. Nisha De Souza, faculty of Sophia High School. The event featured esteemed guests and speakers from the Notre Dame family who shared their insights on the Sisters’ journey and their contributions to education and spiritual mission in India.

Sr. Mary Chetana, the Provincial Superior of the Visitation Province, gave the welcome address, while Sr. Mary Manisha, the Education Coordinator of the Sisters of Notre Dame, Visitation Province, led all in prayer. The Jubilee Anthem sung by the Sophia Chorale was played to commemorate the Notre Dame spirit of dedication and unwavering commitment to the cause of education and society. Although Sr. Mary Ann Culpert, the Superior General, could not join, she conveyed her inspiring message through a representative, underscoring the significance of this milestone.

Several speakers contributed to the event, reflecting on their experiences and the impact of the Sisters of Notre Dame on their lives.  Ms. Rita Mathew, retired teacher from Sophia High School, Bangalore, shared her memories as a teacher.  Sr. Mary Paula discussed the Coesfeld Foundation in Germany, and Sr. Margaret Gorman highlighted the connectedness of the India Mission. Sr. Mary Amala recounted the humble beginnings of Notre Dame in India. Updates on the current realities and developments were provided by Sr. Mary Chetana for the Visitation Province, Bangalore, and Sr. Mary Alice for the Assumption Province, Patna. Teachers and alumni, such as Ms. Nirupama Singh Solanki from Notre Dame Academy, Badarpur, and Mokshada Batra, an alumna of Sophia High School, also shared their experiences. The gathering emphasized unity, collaboration and the enduring spirit of the Notre Dame community as some of the key factors that have kept the spirit of St Julie alive, relevant and powerful, uniting the Notre Dame community worldwide. The Conclave created cherished memories and reinforced a shared commitment to a brighter future.