Shillong, Oct 2: For five decades, Bellefonte, a house of the Salesian Sisters at Lumshyiap in Shillong, has remained committed to religious formation, education, skills development and community welfare, extending support to children, young people, elderly persons and disadvantaged families.

Inaugurated on March 19, 1976, Bellefonte is celebrating its golden jubilee, marking 50 years of service rooted in compassion, faith and a commitment to helping those in need.

Speaking to journalists, Sister Superior Elizabeth Thannimoottil expressed gratitude to God and to all those who contributed to the establishment and growth of Bellefonte, particularly Mother Catherine Mania, whose dedication to the poor helped shape the institution’s mission.

Sister Elizabeth said planning and construction began in 1972, when the congregation recognised the need for a separate and peaceful environment for young women preparing to enter religious life.

Initially, the candidates received their formation at the Provincial House. However, as other activities and responsibilities increased, the congregation began looking for a more suitable location. Bellefonte was eventually established in an area that was then largely covered by forest, with very few houses nearby.

Construction was completed in 1976, and the novitiate was inaugurated on March 19, the Feast of St Joseph.

Beyond religious formation, Bellefonte gradually developed community outreach initiatives under Mother Catherine Mania. Recognising the needs of children and young people in neighbouring villages, she organised programmes that provided learning opportunities, encouraged good values and supported their personal development.

Meals provided during these activities also offered relief to families struggling to meet their daily needs. Over time, the outreach expanded to include elderly people and others requiring assistance, with food and essential supplies distributed to those in need.

According to Sister Elizabeth, these initiatives helped instil generosity, compassion and a sense of responsibility among young people, while encouraging them to develop confidence and concern for others.

Mother Catherine Mania also established a small dispensary at Bellefonte to assist residents who faced difficulties travelling to distant hospitals. The facility provided medicines and basic care, while the Sisters extended support to disadvantaged families through food, clothing and other necessities.

Sister Elizabeth said donations and financial assistance had played an important role in sustaining these services over the years. However, declining support has created challenges, even as the Sisters continue their efforts to preserve the vision and mission of the institution’s founders.

Today, Bellefonte’s responsibilities include religious formation, care for sick and elderly Sisters, educational activities, and service in parishes and communities.

The institution also provides skills training for young people with limited opportunities, including school dropouts and those already engaged in work. Courses in computer skills, sewing, embroidery and food preparation are intended to equip participants with practical abilities and help them become more self-reliant.

As Bellefonte completes 50 years of service, Sister Elizabeth reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to education, formation and assistance for people in need.

She also expressed gratitude to everyone who has supported Bellefonte throughout its journey, helping sustain its mission of providing care, dignity and hope to children, young people and disadvantaged families in Shillong and its surrounding communities.