Traducido del texto enviado por la Hna. Beena Jose, Coordinadora de Comunicación, India (Provincia del Suroeste de la India – Bangalore)

Every July 31, communities across the global Good Shepherd mission celebrate the birthday of Santa María Eufrasia Pelletier, foundress of Our Lady of Charity of the Good Shepherd. In ministries, schools, and projects around the world, the occasion brings together sisters, partners-in-mission, program participants, students, and staff to consider how her commitment to compassion, mercy, reconciliation, and service continues to shape the global Good Shepherd family.

One example of her enduring influence could be seen at Good Shepherd Convent School in Mysuru, India, where the school community marked the 230^º anniversary of her birth. Through prayer, drama, music, and dance, the students explored how the principles that guided her can influence their lives today.

The program commenced with a solemn procession in which a portrait of Saint Mary Euphrasia was carried to the stage, accompanied by a prayer dance. Following a welcome address, there was a reflection on the significance of the day, highlighting Saint Mary Euphrasia’s life of service and her vision of transforming lives through compassion, reconciliation, and unconditional love. Her legacy was presented not simply as part of the school’s history, but as a continuing call to recognize the dignity and potential of every person.

A prayer service then invited those present to seek God’s blessing and renew their commitment to the values cherished by the foundress. Through Scripture readings, prayers, and symbolic representations, students and staff considered what it means to become instruments of peace, hope, and service through the ways they speak to, support, and care for one another.

One of the highlights of the program was a thought-provoking sketch presented by the students. Through relatable scenes from everyday life, they portrayed the values central to Saint Mary Euphrasia’s vision: compassion, zeal, gratitude, protection, reconciliation, kindness, and unconditional love. The scenes showed how these values can be expressed by noticing when another person needs support, protecting those at risk, resolving conflict, showing gratitude, and treating others with respect. In this way, the performance translated the foundress’s principles into practical choices that students can make at home, at school, and in the wider community.

Music and dance also formed part of the program. The nursery children performed a song, while students from the Kannada- and English-medium sections showcased their talents through dance performances.

Addressing the gathering, Sr. Molly, the school manager, spoke about the relevance of Saint Mary Euphrasia’s teachings in today’s world. She encouraged the students to embrace the foundress’s motto, “Haz bien todo lo que hagas,” and to become compassionate, responsible, and faith-filled individuals who contribute positively to society. Sr. Molly emphasized that Saint Mary Euphrasia’s influence becomes visible when people carry out their responsibilities with care, respond to others with compassion, and use their abilities in service of the common good.

The program concluded with a vote of thanks to the school management, sisters, staff, students, parents, and everyone who contributed to the occasion. The celebration connected Saint Mary Euphrasia’s spirituality and values with the school’s educational mission and encouraged students to continue her work by recognizing the worth of each person they encounter in their daily lives.