Bishop of Calicut

Dear Sr.M. Regina Kalathil O.Ss.S,

I am overwhelmed to look into the history of the diocese of the Calicut to see the rich legacy which she left for us to wonder at. It is a history of the inspired of the inspired men and women, who consumed with the love of the Lord, dedicated their lives for the people of God. It is a history of absolute self-giving and selfless and service.

The Platinum Jubilee of the Bridgettine Convent at Marikunnu gives me yet another opportunity to ponder on the vision and mission of such holy men like Rev. Fr. Edward Berretta S.J., who initiated the established of the first convent of the Bridgettine Sisters in India.

On April 27, 1937 the pioneer band of twelve sisters arrived at Calicut and my predecessor Msgr. Ranzani warmly welcomed them. Ever since their arrival, the Bridgettine have been instrumental in changing the face of the locality by their prayer life, perpetual adoration of the Blessed Sacrament and their Apostolate. As the Sisters increased in number, other houses were established. 1960 saw the Bridgettines at Bangalore. Next followed a foundation at Kalamaseery in 1962. Gradually many houses were established at different parts of the country spreading the kingdom of God.

I give thanks to the Lord for the gift of Bridgettine Sisters in the Diocese of Calicut. I hope and pray that they will continue to be a Power House of the diocese by their ceaseless prayer before the Blessed Sacrament and that they share “the grief and anguish of the people of our time, especially of those who are poor and afflicted”.

Cordial Blessings

Bishop Varghese Chakkalakal
Bishop of Calicut
Apostolic Adminidtrator of Kannur
Secretary General, CBCI