By Mrs Sashi Natrajan, Partner-in-Mission, India (Province of Central East India and Nepal)

During this momentous year in which we celebrate the centenary of the Good Shepherd Convent in Chennai, India, members of our Congregational Leadership Team visited sisters and partners-in-mission in the city, fueling our passion for mission and stirring our hearts.

The official opening and blessing of the Good Shepherd Centenary School by Congregational Leader Sr Joan Marie Lopez, Congregational Councilors Sisters Josita Corera and Marie Françoise Mestry, and CEIN Province Leader Sr Pushpa Louis marks a significant milestone in our history.

The new school is located on the campus of the Good Shepherd Convent, a landmark in the heart of Chennai since 1924.

The co-educational Good Shepherd Centenary School seeks to meet the need for quality education in the city, underpinned by the values and experience we can offer as Good Shepherd.

It was a proud moment to step into new-morrows as students, parents, alumni, teachers, sisters, and partners-in-mission participated in a meaningful ritual together with the leadership team.

During their two-day visit on June 14 and 15, the team spent valuable time with partners-in-mission, honoring past pioneers, valuing our legacy, and celebrating partnership. It was a turning point for our teachers who were very inspired by their presence and infused with fresh courage and zeal for the mission of shepherding.

The highlight of the visit was the open conversations that took place during the school assembly with the young girl advocates who spoke passionately about upholding justice at the core of education.

The students who had previously only met the leaders online, were able to engage in conversations with them, opening a space for a shared future where faith is strengthened, unity is fostered, hope is inspirational, and where every voice counts.