Media Release
Mangaluru, Mar 26: While the Bicentennial commemoration of the death of the beloved foundress of the Society of the Daughters of the Heart of Mary, Marie Adelaide de Cicé, comes to a close, the India Province South celebrated the first of its kind, the 15th Anniversary of the formation of the Daughters of the Heart of Mary Associates (DHM Associates).
DHM Associates has as its animator Theresa D’Souza (DHM) along with like-minded laity. These are the people who serve or have served in various agencies of the Institute of Social Service, Mangaluru. Besides, those who are drawn by the charism of the DHMs have joined the group.
Formed on March 25, 2004, this group observed its 15th anniversary on Monday, March 25 with the Eucharistic celebration led by Fr Melwyn Pinto in the Roshni Nilaya chapel at 6 pm. Members of the DHM Community and DHM Associates participated wholeheartedly. Fr Melwyn urged the Associates to empty their hearts like Mother Mary. Open your petals noiselessly like her and get into the Heart of Mary. He mentioned that the Associates share the charism of the Congregation. The Congregation has definitely shared the values of Mary. The beauty of the Associates is that they bear Jesus in their hearts too.
The Angelus was recited to mark the beginning of the informal celebration. The logo of the DHM Associates was unveiled and the members received badges from Philomena D’Sa, Provincial of the Daughters of the Heart of Mary, India Province South and Colin D’Souza, President, Institute of Social Service, Mangaluru. A surprise gesture by the Provincial Philomena D’Sa was overwhelming. She presented each DHM Associate with a candle that symbolizes the light of the Congregation. She wished each member to spread the light of Marie Adelaide de Cicé and Fr de Clorivière and continue the mission with which the DHM Association was formed.
A medley was sung by the DHM Associates followed by a skit. It was unique and spiritual though with a touch of humour depicting the lives of some DHM Associates and their connections to various incarnations of Mother Mary and Saints. A fellowship meal was served and relished.