Founded by Mgr RFC Mascarenhas, the Servant of God and beloved Founder of our Congregation, the mission of Bethany is rooted in his deep desire to “preach the good news” to the poor and neglected. With unyielding courage, he initiated transformative efforts to uplift communities, particularly women and children, and to build a more just and equitable society. His legacy has continued to inspire countless initiatives for social welfare and development since 1921.

In 1998, the Jeevandhara Social Service Trust was formally established to further these efforts. The Trust has served as a dynamic platform for social action, continuing the work of empowering marginalized communities, particularly women and youth, through programs focused on self-reliance, rights advocacy, and social justice.

The Trust’s work has centered around empowering women by forming self-help groups, providing vocational training, and advocating for their rights. By 2012, with support from Caritas India and the Province, around 100 self-help groups were established, promoting economic independence for women. Though some groups have faced challenges due to external factors, many continue to thrive with ongoing guidance from the Trust.

As development approaches evolve, our focus has shifted from purely developmental work to a rights-based approach. This has included capacity-building programs that emphasize participation, advocacy, lobbying, and policy engagement. Through initiatives like the Right to Information Act and redress mechanisms, the Trust collaborates with government, non-governmental organizations, church-based groups, and other allies to ensure a more just and equitable world.

The Mangalore Province remains a cornerstone of our socio-pastoral mission, serving as a beacon of social, cultural, and economic transformation. Bethany is privileged to serve the rural poor, especially disadvantaged women, girls, and youth, while fostering collaboration across all sectors—pastoral, educational, social, and healthcare—to build a harmonious, just society reflecting the Reign of God.

Guided by the example of our Immaculate Mother, we remain committed to magnifying the Lord’s transforming presence through our work, ever striving to fulfill our mission of social justice and human dignity.