Obituary
Sister M. Maurizia- Thressiamma Kadakalil
15 May 1943 – 21 September 2024
Sister M. Maurizia was born on 15 May 1943 to Thomas and Mary Kadakalil in Wayanad
District, India, the fourth of nine children. Her life was marked by unwavering dedication and
service which had a profound influence on many sisters during her 56 years in the Order.
From an early age, she felt the call to prayer and community life. She took her first vows on 4
May 1969 in Marikunnu and her perpetual vows on 2 February 1975 at the Mother house in
Rome. After returning to India, she dedicated her 44 years of life to the community at
Kalamassery. She had a vast knowledge of herbal medicines with which she provided comfort
and relief to those who were in pain; in particular, her curative skill and understanding became a
source of strength and consolation to the elderly and sick sisters in the community. She also
nurtured a profound respect for plants and animals thus finding joy in nature.
Every day at 3 pm, she could be found in the chapel praying faithfully the Chaplet of the Divine
Mercy; even at the age of 81, in Sister Maurizia radiated vitality and dedication and her
enthusiasm infected those around her.
For the parishioners Sr. Maurizia has become a symbol of good will and genuine kindness while
constantly offering assistance and words of comfort. She was actively involved in the community
service through gardening and different occupations and through meeting the needs of others she
embodied altruism and compassion. Sr. Maurizia’s life was a living testimony of love and
dedication.
In her final days despite having fever she remained equally active. However, after a meal in the
refectory she suddenly collapsed; regardless of immediate medical attention, her condition
rapidly worsened. Surrounded by Mother M. Damian, the National Delegate, Mother Ann, Sr.
Sarah, her niece and others and accompanied by the prayers, Sr. Maurizia passed away
peacefully into the embrace of Jesus.
The memory of Sr. Maurizia will forever be cherished by the sisters of the Kalamassery
community. May she rest in eternal peace. R.I.P.
Sr. M. Ursula
14 May 1940 – 1 June 2024
Sr. M. Ursula was born on 14 May 1940 in Thuruthippuram, Kerala, India. She
was the youngest of eleven children born to Mathew and Aleyamma. From the
years of her formation, she owned a deep rooted spirituality and an unwavering
devotion which significantly influenced her subsequent path.
In 1962, she responded to the clear and profound call to religious life, entering the
Bridgettine Convent at Marikunnu where on 4 February 1965 she made her
temporary vows and on 4 February 1968, her perpetual profession. Sr. Ursula’s
days began and ended in the presence of the Lord. She dedicated 59 years of her
religious life in the communities at Bangalore, Marikunnu, Amachal and
Kalamassery thus leaving behind a splendid testimony of her consecrated life.
Sr. Ursula embraced the cross uniting her sufferings to it and found spiritual
strength by walking on the way of the cross. Despite her age and illness that
weakened her body, she continued her life of prayer spending all her free time in
the chapel to recite the Rosary and other personal prayers. She loved the parish
community and prayed for them. She became a symbol of God’s love by
participating in the Masses that were celebrated in the parish especially at
funerals and praying for the deceased also comforting the family members. She
was regularly engaged in the parish activities. In short, she was a soul of prayer.
In every moment of her life she prayed for a happy death so preparing herself
well to meet the Lord.
On 1 June, during the night at 2.30 am, she suffered a heart attack and fell to the
ground; the sisters immediately rushed to her but they could only certify that her
heart had stopped beating thus beginning her journey to the heavenly homeland.
Dear Sr. Ursula, pray for your beloved Order. R.I.P.!
Sr. M. Josefita – Rosamma Kakatukkiel
21 September 1960 – 18 April 2024
Sr. M. Josefita was born on 21 September 1960 in Angadikadavu, Kerala, India. She was the fourth among eight children born to Aleyamma and Mathew. From her early years Sr. Josefita had a profound sense of spirituality and devotion which shaped her future path.
In 1978, feeling a deep and irresistible call to religious life, she entered the convent at Marikunnu, Calicut. Her commitment in answering to this vocation was immediate and unwavering. She made her First Profession on 24 April 1981 and her final vows on 15 October 1986. During her formation, Sr. Josefita was distinguished for her dedication and seriousness, scrupulously enriching her daily life with her spiritual learning.
Sr. Josefita's life was marked by simplicity, hard work and fervent prayers. She had embraced an ascetic lifestyle which included extra mortifications, sacrifices and a constant practice of virtues. Her devotion and commitment made her a beacon of inspiration to those around her. Time had always been precious to her; she never missed a moment and was always quick and prompt in her actions, a testament to her disciplined and efficient nature. She was the first to arrive in the chapel daily, consequently bearing witness to her commitment to prayer and devotion. Punctuality for all common duties was a hallmark of her disciplined lifestyle. Her fervor and participation in spiritual activities were a source of inspiration to the community.
In her 43 years of religious life, Sr. Josefita held various roles in different communities. In Bangalore she was a Councilor, Bursar and sister in charge of the Juniors. Furthermore, she served as Superior in the communities of Goa and Kannur, demonstrating her ability to guide and her dedication in leading others on their spiritual path. Sr. Josefita spent her last days in Marikunnu where she held the position of first Councilor. And even during that short period, living in the Novitiate house, she was actively involved and diligent in her tasks with unwavering dedication.
The unexpected loss of Sr. Josefita has left a profound void in all those who knew her life as that of her service. She suffered from diabetes and hypertension; she was hospitalized for 10 days due to fever but on April 17 her condition suddenly worsened. Despite the efforts of the medical team, Sr. Josefita passed away on April 18, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of unwavering commitment to her religious life. Her memory will live on in the hearts of those who have been inspired by her faith and dedication.
Rest in peace dear Sister Josefita. Your life was a testament to the power of faith and dedication so that your legacy will continue to inspire. R.I.P.!
Sr. M. Judith – Tresa Veluthedath
24 March 1944 – 9 April 2024
Sr. Judith was born in Perumanoor, Ernakulam on 24 March 1944, the eldest
daughter of Mr. George and Mrs. Josephine. Of their nine children, three
daughters dedicated their lives to the service of the Church. From a young
age, Sister Judith was aspired to a religious life. After completing her secondary school studies, she
entered the Order in Kalamassery in 1963. She made her first profession on 8 October 1965 in
Marikunnu. Subsequently she went to Rome. In 1970 she made her final Profession in Djursholm,
Sweden, where she had been transferred and where she cared for elderly women. She considered
Sweden as her second homeland. In 1980 she was appointed Superior of the Community at Falun
where she served for 6 years and led the community with dedication. In 1986 she returned to India to
the community at Kalamassery and in 1991 she was appointed Novice Mistress in Marikunnu. In
1994 she moved to Trivandrum where she became the sister in charge of the Animation Centre of
the diocese. Here she seized the opportunity to assist the poor and needy, so much so that bishops,
priests, religious and lay people called her with the affectionate title "Mamma Judith". She facilitated
the marriages for young girls, supported seminarians on their path to priesthood, helped students in
pursuing higher education and provided financial support to many families; she endeared herself to
the community and was compared to Mother Teresa of Calcutta. From 2002 to 2004, Sr. Judith
served as Superior of the community at Trivandrum. Hers was a nurturing presence, kind in her
relationships and deeply involved in her sisters' lives. She was always ready to help, cared for each
sister and those who sought her assistance. From 2004 to 2011 she held the office of a Superior in
Marikunnu, caring for the needs of the elderly sisters and frequently visiting the priests’ home of the
diocese of Calicut near the convent. Her virtues of kindness, mercy, love, and care were qualities
that encouraged the sisters to imitate her. She had a passion for reading religious books and articles
that she always shared with the young sisters. Sr. Judith loved her religious life and lived it to the
full. She was constantly present in community prayers; she never neglected the daily adoration of the
Blessed Sacrament, more over spend long hours praying for our Holy Order, the priests, the religious
and the world. She was deeply devoted to the Most Holy Mother Mary and never ended a day
without reciting the Holy Rosary. In 2014 she returned to Trivandrum as Superior but in 2017 she
was again transferred to Kalamassery where she spent her last days. In 2022, she was diagnosed with
cancer, which was a shocking revelation to the community. In the last months, confined to bed, she
received the attentive care of the sisters and her health remained stable, apart from some minor
problems; however, after Easter 2024, she was stricken with pneumonia and God called her to His
eternal home on 9 April 2024 at the age of 80. As the Holy Mother Saint Elizabeth says: "Go to
Heaven with hands full of love and virtue", Sister Judith lived these words and in the end met her
Lord with a heart full of love and hands full of virtue. Dear Sister Judith, intercede for our Holy
Order and for holy vocations. May her soul rest in peace. R.I.P
Sr. M. Genevieve–Philomena Maximina Lewis
25 May 1939 – 20 March 2023
Sr. M. Genevieve was born on 25 May 1939 in Kallianpur, Mangalore, Karnataka;
the last child of nine in the devout Lewis family. She entered the Order at Marikunnu
in the year 1961, there she made her first profession on 6 August 1963 and her final
vows on 6 August 1966.
In her religious life she had an ardent devotion to the Blessed Sacrament and spent
much of her time in the chapel. She loved singing during the liturgical hours; at
Vespers she recited aloud the prayers of intercession, praying for the various needs of
the world. During recreation the community enjoyed her old tales and nursery
rhymes. With the youngsters she shared the spirituality of our saints. In addition to
Marikunnu, she lived in the communities of Bangalore, Kalamassery and Nantoor; in
the latter house she received the call of the Lord.
Sr. Genevieve was preparing to celebrate the diamond jubilee of her religious
profession and was busy preparing the liturgy of the feast. She repeatedly said that
she is very busy putting her things in order, not knowing that death would come into
her life like a thief.
In fact Sr. Genevieve's call came suddenly as she was preparing to go to the chapel
for the morning Holy Mass. Some sisters noticing her absence rushed to her room
where they found her unconscious. Although she was immediately shifted to the
hospital not much could be done because she suffered a massive heart attack. The
hospital chaplain administered the Sacrament of the Sick to her and the Lord called
her to Himself. She thus fell asleep in the Lord in peace and serenity on the morning
of 20th March 2023 at 10:00 am.
Dear Sr. Genevieve, intercede for our Holy Order before the Lord. R.I.P.
Sr. M. Beatrice – Tresa Chemparathy
03rd February 1930 - 22nd July 2023
“I glorified you on earth by finishing the work that you gave me to do “(Jn.17:4).
These words of St. John seem applicable to the life of Sr. Beatrice , who dedicated herself
entirely to the glory of God.
She was born on 3 February 1930 in Muthalakodam in the devout Chemparathy family; in the
diocese of Kothamangalam, Kerala as the fourth of the eight children of Annamma and
Mathew. These blessed parents had the special grace of seeing their five daughters among six
to consecrate their lives to God as Religious and one among the two sons to become a
religious in the Congregation of Saint John of God. This makes us think of the Blessed family
of St. Therese – the little flower. Her youngest sister Sr. M. Susanna also embraced on the path
of religious life thus becoming a member of our Order; she assisted Sr. Beatrice in her last days
with her presence and with her prayers.
In 1953 after completing her studies, in response to God’s call she chose the life of prayer and
adoration of the Blessed Sacrament thus joining the Bridgettine Community in Marikunnu on
21st June 1953. She made her First Profession on 3rd February 1955 and the Perpetual
Profession in 1958.
She was a fervent labourer of the early hours. As long as her health permitted Sr. Beatrice was
very devout in her prayer life and punctual for common activities. She always acknowledged
and expressed her gratitude for every little service rendered to her. God granted her the grace of
having a long life of 93 years and she was able to say with Saint Paul: “I have finished the race,
I have kept the faith”. Considering her ability and her faithfulness from the very beginning, she
was entrusted with responsible assignments. Kindness, respect and obedience to the superiors
were the pre-eminent virtues. She served the Order as Superior in four of our communities:
Kalamassery, Trivandrum, Pallavaram and Bangalore. Along with Mother M. Gertrude Pereira,
she also took the responsibility of supervising the construction of St. Pius X church at the
convent of Kalamassery.
In her rather long old age, she edified and enriched the community of Marikunnu with her
longing for the Holy Eucharist, prayer, good example, gratitude and an orderly life. Even in her
short life of suffering confined to bed she spoke at length with love and spontaneity to Jesus,
expressing her desire to meet him. She was a consolation and edification for all the sisters. The
Lord took to himself this beautiful flower from His Bridgettine garden on July 22, 2023 at 1:45
am. R.I.P.!
Sr. M. Rosalia – Rosa Lilly Vadakkethala
26th October 1955 – 30th September 2022
Sr. M. Rosalia an Indian was born on 26th October 1955 in Vadakkethala
family at Poothol in the diocese of Trissur at Kerala. She was the first
among nine children of Mr. Joseph and Mrs. Theresia. She entered the Order
on 11th January 1978 and made her First Profession on 24th April 1980 and
the Perpetual Vows on 8th October 1985. Sr. Rosalia rendered 44 years of
her selfless services in the communities of Bangalore, Trivandrum, Sipcot,
Nantoor and Calicut.
She had an ardent devotion to the Holy Spirit. Even in her last days she had
spoken to the Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Simon Peter, that before laying her
body to the grave a hymn to the Holy Spirit should be sung and it was done
accordingly.
Sr. Rosalia was a person of prayer and hard work; although she was
suffering from all kinds of sicknesses she was active and never wasted time
even at the time of siesta until she was confined to bed.
In 2020 doctors found out that cancerous cells in her body and necessary
treatments were started accordingly. But in August 2022, the test result
showed that the cancer had spread to all her vital organs. A treatment was
not advisable as the situation was out of control and the doctors
recommended palliative care. Finally she was unable to swallow the food
and very often her condition became serious but she was fully conscious till
the last moment. As she was approaching the end she was given the
Sacrament of anointing of the sick and Holy Viaticum. Sisters were always
near her praying and preparing her to meet her spouse.
Two days before her death our beloved Abbess General, Mother M. Fabia
Kattakayam, spoke to her on video call, they prayed together and Sr. Rosalia
asked Mother’s blessing. On 30th September she became very serious and
from 7.00 pm onwards her condition worsened and was sinking. The whole
community stood at her bedside praying and comforting her and she was
conscious and responded clearly to the prayers till the end. It was at 9.00 pm
while sisters were praying near her bed, she said: “Mother Mary has come
and holding my hand to take me to Jesus, I am going”. These were her last
words and rested in the Father’s arms forever.
Dear Sr. Rosalia, rest in peace and intercede to the Lord for us and for our
Beloved Order. RIP!
Sr. M. Flavia – Mavis D’sa
09th December 1942 - 6th August 2022
Sr. M. Falvia, an Indian was born as the 3 rd among seven children to
Salvadore and Lucy D’sa in a deeply religious family in Valencia of
Mangalore Diocese. She joined the Bridgettine Order in 1964 and made
her first profession on 8 th October 1965 and final profession on 4 th May
1971.
Sr. M. Flavia was a very fervent religious and was a woman of wide
knowledge and updated herself with reading good books. Kind, gentle,
soft-spoken, loyal and meticulous in all that she did, she served as
secretary to the Delegation for many years besides being superior to some
of our communities in India. She was the first councillor and procurator
of Chikmagalur community for long twenty years until the Lord called
her to Himself.
Sr. M. Flavia was of a delicate nature and never enjoyed good health but
she was very punctual in the chapel and for the common exercises. She
loved to sing the Divine Office and was determined for the active
participation of the holy Eucharist. She loved the community life and
loved the presence of the sisters. She had a passion for the rose garden
and the lovely flowers spoke volumes of her gentle touch.
Sr. M. Flavia began to experience the health issues connected with
intestinal disorder and was under treatment for long 30 years. Yet she
endured all her sufferings with patience and with resignation to the
Divine Will. She was hospitalized in Chikmagalur on 23 rd July following
a viral fever. She had also several health issues and at her request was
transferred to Bangalore, at “St. John’s medical college”, where, although
the medical department tried their best to save her, a multiple organ
failure caused her to bid farewell to this world or we would like to
believe what our beloved Mother Abbess’s condolence message note said
“that our Divine Lord has called her to His sacred mountain at 1 am on
August 6 th, the beautiful day of our Titular Feast.
May her soul rest in Peace!
Dear Sr. M. Flavia, please intercede for our holy Order. R.I. P
Sr. M. Jane - Rosamma Moozhikachalil
12 May 1933 – 12 February 2022
Sr. M. Jane was born on 12th May 1933 at Thodupuzha Kerala; She
was the third of five children of Mr. Thomas and Eliswa. In 1959 she
responded wholeheartedly to God’s call and made her First Profession
at Marikunnu on May 4 th 1961; on May 4 th 1964 she pronounced her
eternal “Yes” with the Perpetual Profession.
Rooted in the Missionary Spirit, in 1962 Sr. M. Jane accepted the
invitation to go to Europe, where she served the communities in Rome,
Assisi, England and Via delle Isole for long 46 years of her religious
life. In 2005 Sr. M. Jane returned to India due to health issues and
served the community at Kalamassery till the last.
Sr. M. Jane was a person of prayer and hard work, she was ever
punctual for the common exercises. Her love for the Sisters and
Superiors was remarkable. Sr. M. Jane suffered physically due to her
weak heart, but silently endured her difficulties without complaints.
Often she used to be hospitalized but her recovery was quick except
the last time. In her sickness she wanted sisters to be around and
gratefully acknowledged every little act of kindness toward her with a
sweet smile and with her prompt Thank you.
After having received the anointing of the sick she slept in the Lord on
12th February 2022 at 12.10 am in the presence of the sisters.
“Death is beautiful. That is why no one comes back to earthly life
again”.
May the beautiful soul of dear Sr. M. Jane enjoy the peace of the Lord
together with all the angels and saints. Dear Sr. M. Jane intercede for
us all. R.I.P.
Sr. M. Rosalie – Therese Arukalil
30 April 1938 – 2 January 2022
Sr. M. Rosalie was born in Thodupuzha, Diocese of Kottayam, Kerala, on April 30,
1938, the fifth of 6 children. When Sr. Rosalie was two years old, her parents emigrated
to Peravoor, Malabar, in northern Kerala. There the malaria epidemic struck her family
and Sr. Rosalie lost her mother at the age of four; after some time her father also died.
The three youngest children, including Sr. Rosalie, initially grew up in two different
orphanages until the elder sister took them with her.
On 28 October 1958 she entered the convent of Marikunnu and on 4 May 1961 she
made her first vows in the same house at Marikunnu; after three years on May 4, 1964,
she pronounced her perpetual vows in Piazza Farnese in Rome, where she had arrived
two years earlier. Already in 1964 she was transferred to Iver Heath, where she
remained almost all her life, except for the period from 1988, when she was sent to
Assisi for a few months, and later in Via delle Isole; in September 1990 she returned to
Iver Heath.
The sisters who met her are witnesses of how much Sr. Rosalie loved her vocation. She
was a loving, cheerful and caring sister and always smiling. Unfortunately, due to her
already deteriorating health, she was unable to continue community life, when in 2011
the renovations of the convent and guest house in Iver Heath began; therefore she was
transferred to a nursing home on February 23, 2012. In the following years she had to
change three localities, due to the requirements of her illness.
It had been difficult for Sister Rosalie to leave the convent, but she accepted God's will
and was happy and peaceful until the end. Wherever she received such care and
understanding, the sisters are witnesses of the respect and care she benefited . Sr.
Rosalie's life in the retirement home was a life of religious witness. She was always
grateful and never complained.
The chaplain of the area often celebrated Holy Mass in her room, at other times he
brought her Holy Communion and so did the sisters. From time to time, as long as they
could, they would take her back to the convent. The Abbess General, Mother M. Fabia
Kattakayam, being in Iver Heath for her two Canonical Visits, went to visit her and she
was very happy. From then on when the pandemic began, the visits were very limited,
however the sisters never made her miss their visit.
On January 2, 2022, the news of the sudden worsening of her health conditions arrived
unexpectedly. The whole community was praying but there was no time to reach her
bedside, because Sr. Rosalie went to meet her Lord so to receive the reward of eternal
life, after a life of dedication and service to the Order and the Church.
The staff of the nursing home reported that the evening before her death she appeared
calm, showed no signs of any particular discomfort and as always she had her rosary in
her hand and the image of the Sacred Heart near her bed. Some time before her death
she had received the sacrament of the sick. She had been well prepared and had a
peaceful death. May Sister Rosalie pray for all of us from heaven! R.I.P. in peace! Dear Sr. M. Juliana, please pray for us from
heaven. R.I.P.
Sr. M. Juliana – Paskin Mavis D’Souza
17 th May 1951 – 29 th December 2021
Sr. M. Juliana an Indian was born in Shirva in the Diocese of Udupi,
Mangalore on 17 th May 1951 to Thomas D’Souza and Juliana D’Souza. She
entered the Order in July 1967 at Marikunnu, Calicut where received her
religious formation and made her first profession on 4 th May 1969 and her
perpetual vows on 4 th May 1974.
Sr. M. Juliana was epitome of simplicity, humility and gentleness. She was
faithful in little things and distinguished herself by her obedience and had
great regard for her superiors. Her love for vocation was great indeed. She
served our communities at Calicut, Madras, Kalamassery, Mysore and for the
last 32 years she was part of the community at Nanthoor. For many years she
was local councillor at Nanthoor and shouldered the responsibility as hostel
warden, who always made herself available to the needs of the girls. Sr. M.
Juliana also served as in-charge of the Kindergarten, the duty which she
performed with utmost interest and dedication.
She was a person of prayer and a lover of community life. Her sisterly
affection and care was experienced by all those who came in contact with
her. She was soft-spoken, not visible to people around. She had an ardent
devotion to the Blessed Sacrament and to the Blessed Virgin Mary and was
always seen with rosary in hand in the evening of her life. She kept her lamp
burning with faith in all circumstances of her life with total detachment.
She suffered incurable vertigo for many years along with many other
complications. Her fragile health was gradually deteriorated and in recent
months her movements were restricted to a great extent. In the end she went
to meet the Lord as she lived, silent and peaceful. Her face was gleaming
with serenity. She left this world for eternity on 29 th December 2021 at 5pm.
May her soul rest in peace! Dear Sr. M. Juliana, please pray for us from
heaven. R.I.P.
Mother M. Saveria – Anna Joanna D’Souza
26 th July 1925 – 7 th August 2021
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith, now
there is in store for me, the crown of righteousness” (2 Timothy 4: 7-8).
Mother M. Saveria was born in Bantwal at Mangalore, on 26 th July 1925 as the
daughter of Paul and Mary D’souza who gave 3 religious sisters and 2 priests from
their 10 children to the service of the Lord. While working as a teacher in their
neighbouring school, the late Archbishop Albert Dsouza who was then her parish
priest, showed her the way to the Bridgettine Order. She joined in 1952 and made
her first profession on 2 nd February 1954 and final profession in 1957 at
Marikunnu.
In 1962 as the new community at Kalamassery was formed she was one among the
pioneers where she became the Superior in 1971. She laboured hard in the new
foundation at Kalamassery, mastering the local language she communicated to all
people and won their hearts, her life was a life lived with simplicity and with
great zest.
Mother Saveria was transferred to Bangalore in 1977 as superior and in 1980
became the National Delegate, the responsibility which she carried on for a period
of 12 years. During her term as Delegate, she initiated to open new tabernacles for
the Lord at Nanthoor, Puttur, and Sipcot. She also served as superior at the
convents of Nanthoor and Puttur and was back to Bangalore in the year 2002
where she lived the rest of her life until the Lord called her in 2021.
Mother Saveria loved her religious life and lived it in its fullness. She was always
present for the community prayers and never missed her daily Adoration of the
Blessed Sacrament. Prayer was the rhythm of her life. With her beautiful voice,
she praised God unceasingly. Her perfection in every little thing was remarkable.
The long 69 years of religious life was an edifying one endowed with great
devotion to the Blessed Sacrament and high religious spirit.
It was a real shock to the community as Mother Saveria was diagnosed with
cancer after attending a routine hospital visit, two months before her death.
Treatment was not an option as the malignancy was found to be in an advanced
stage. Doctors advised palliative care and Mother Saveria was brought home. She
had breathing difficulty and was admitted again to the hospital and brought home
with the support of Oxygen. Gradually she became weak and all knew that her end
was nearing. She received the sacrament of reconciliation and the anointing of the
sick from the Hospital chaplain and was ready to meet her dear Lord.
The end came on 7 th August around 11 am while the sisters were praying the
rosary around her bed. Dear Mother Saveria, plead for us from heaven. R.I.P.
Mother M. Margaret – Delphine Mascarenhas
26 th November 1933 – 25 th June 2021
Mother Margaret Mascarenhas was born in Bendur, Mangalore to pious and God-fearing
parents, on 26th November 1933, to a large family of fourteen children. The devout
atmosphere of the family ignited the spark of vocation in her and despite the opposition
from the family she joined the Bridgettine Order in 1957 and made her first profession on
3 rd February 1959 and final vows on 3 rd February 1962 at Marikunnu.
The spirit of prayer and love for the Order was the hallmark of Mother Margaret’s nature.
She was gifted with intelligence and always modest in behaviour. A staunch observer and
follower of the rules and regulations of the community life, not only put into practice all
of those in her life but encouraged and instructed others to follow the same. Mother
Margaret’s fidelity to our Holy Order and love for disciplinary life adorned many
responsibilities such as Novice Mistress, Local Councillor, Superior at Madras,
Bangalore, Marikunnu, Nantoor, and as National Delegate. During her term as National
Delegate for 9 years she added tabernacles for Bridgettines at Goa, Chikmagalur, Kurnool
and Belgaum, and became instrumental as well as a strong support to the late Rev. Mother
Tekla Famiglietti, the then Abbess General in realising the new foundation in the
Philippines. Mother Margaret’s remarkable personality characterized her as a strong and
reliable leader who was faithful to the teachings of Holy Mother Foundresses.
In the year 2010, she was transferred to Bangalore as she was suffering from health
issues. Towards the latter years, Mother Margaret was confined to her room but was
always present in the choir for the Holy Mass and prayers, but she needed assistance to do
her daily needs. She suddenly fell ill on 28th January 2021, and was immediately taken to
hospital and the Doctor declared that she suffered a mild heart attack. She was shifted to
the Intensive care unit where she remained for almost one week. She was brought home
with the assistance of Oxygen and was confined to bed, being one with the crucified
Saviour, because she accepted all her pain and sufferings to the Lord in love of Him.
Sisters took turns to be with her and even though she lost her speech she attempted all
possible ways to acknowledge all that was done for her.
Although the end was awaited, it came like an unexpected blow in the wee hours of 25th
June around 1:05 am. She was well prepared to meet her Saviour, in fact often said that “I
am ready, but the time of Jesus has not yet come”. Our Beloved Mother General wrote:
“Dear Mother Margaret transformed her bed into an altar of sacrifice”. Yes, her last days
were the fragrant offering to her spouse.
Dear Mother Margaret, look down on our Order from heaven and ask the Lord to send
many holy vocations to our Order. May you enjoy the bliss of heaven! R.I.P.
Sr. Jose Mary – Elsy Thekkyial Airookaran
4 th January 1964 – 8 th February 2020
Sr. Jose Mary, an Indian, was born on 4 th January 1964 at Karukutty –
Kerala; she was the last among six children, including two other
Religious, one of whom belongs to the Missionaries of Charity (St.
Teresa of Calcutta). She entered the Order in Marikunnu on 1 st
February 1989, made her first profession on 7 th October 1991 at
Marikunnu and the Final Profession on 7 th October 1996 at Mysore
community.
Sr. Jose Mary’s life can be summarized in few words. She was a
person who wanted to be perfect in all things as our Heavenly Father
is perfect. She tried her best to keep all things neat and tidy. She was
a person of responsibility, sincerity and prayer. She was very faithful
in all the responsibilities entrusted by the Superiors.
Good God called His bride before the time. In November 2019, she
was diagnosed for the breast cancer. She accepted her sickness
cheerfully and was ready for His call. The Rev. Mother General,
Mother Fabia Kattakkayam, while visiting the communities in India,
came to visit her, and Sr. Jose Mary felt happy and consoled by this
maternal concern.
Her call came, all of a sudden on 8 th February 2020. She was
conscious to receive the Sacrament of reconciliation and anointing of
the sick on 8 th morning. By evening her condition aggravated and she
slept in the Lord peacefully at 8.30 pm in the presence of the whole
community, who were praying around her bed.
The community of Trivandrum fondly remembers her. Dear Sr. Jose
Mary, pray for our dear Order before the Lord. May her soul rest in
peace! R.I.P.
Sr. M. Scholastica – Anna Menachery
9 March 1932 – 11 September 2019
Sr.M.Scholastica, Indian, born on 9 th March 1932, in
Chalakudy,Kerala, in a pious family and she is the fifth of six children.
The young Anna recognised God’s call and decided to give her life to
Jesus, joining the Bridgettine Family in Marikunnu. She was a fervent
novice, made the first religious vows on 8 th October 1965 and offered
herself totally to the Divine Master with the perpetual Vows of
Profession on 8 th October 1968 at kalamassery.
Sr. Scholastica was a good, quiet and hardworking person. She had
great veneration to the Most Holy Sacrament, spending long hours in
adoration. Those who approached her for various problems found
consolation and peace, receiving good advice from her and the
assurance of her prayers. Her contribution to the missionary activity of
the local Church, especially in the field of catechism, was remarkable.
She loved her sisters and had a great passion for the garden, taking
care of the plants with special attention. Her generous service and
great commitment to work have been particularly appreciated by the
Trivandrum community.
Towards the end of her life, she began to experience stomach pain and
the doctors diagnosed her with cancer. She was hospitalised for further
treatment but her call came suddenly. In the hospital, a cardiac arrest
took her life.
Sr. Scholastica was well prepared for the meeting with her Spouse; she
had received the Anointing of the Sick and the other Sacraments and
uttering the words: “ In to Your hands, O Lord, I entrust my spirit,”
she made her last breath. It was 11 th September 2019 at 2.30 p.m. the
Community of Trivandrum remembers her with a grateful heart.
May her soul rest in peace. May Sr. Scholastica intercede for our holu
Order! RIP.
Sr. M. Catherine – Elizabeth D’Silva
11 th June 1929 – 25 th December 2018
Sr. M. Catherine of the Divine Savior was born at Coondapoor, in the State
of Karnataka, India, on11 June 1929; the fifth of 12 children, 6 males and 6
females, three of which are religious. After graduating as a teacher she had
entered the convent on 16 March 1952 in Marikunnu. At Marikunnu she
had made the first Profession on 2 February 1954 and made the Perpetual
Vows in 1957. In 1962 she had moved to Kalamassery where she remained
until 1966. She was then sent to Pallavaram and here at the end of 1971
appointed Superior; after a few years (1974) she was at Mysore until 1976
when she was transferred to Iver Heath, where she spent ten years. In 1986
she was called to Rome at the Mother House to fill the Office of General
Bursar, Office which she carried out with great care and responsibility for
nearly two decades (until 2004). During this period she was also charge of
guest reservations and in recent years the Bursar of the house at Piazza
Farnese. She was a great help for the then Mother General, Mother M.
Tekla, as Visitatrix of the communities in India, Philippines and Indonesia,
the latter being new foundations.
Of a reserved nature, she had a strong faith, a strong will, love of prayer and
great spirit of sacrifice, which enabled her to adapt to any situation; After
returning from a trip, even the most tiring and long, she never failed to show
up on time as always in choir for morning prayer. She was always faithful
until she was prevented by illness. Obedience to the Superior was for her
"sacred". In recent years, when no more held general Bursar's Office, every
morning she helped the sisters in the dish washing area. She had a great
interest in what happened in the world, for this purpose distributed from
time to time small scraps of newspapers in order to spark interest and get the
prayers.
Throughout life, she never complained of particular diseases or disorders
except the slight difficulty in walking, which went more and more with the
onset of a slight stroke; This took away the faculty of speech, so she
couldn't make herself understood. For about an year she was forced to stay
in the room, she who so loved choral prayer and every community activity.
Despite this, she never complained rather accepted with gratitude all the
help given by the sisters.
On the morning of 24 December, she received the sacrament of anointing of
the sick and the end came during Holy Christmas night, just after midnight
Mass, so to encounter with her Lord after 66 years of religious life. R.I.P.
Sr. M. Lucy – Precilla D’Silva
6 th April 1937 – 18 th October 2017
Sr. M. Lucy, an Indian was born at Padil in Mangalore on 6 th April 1937.
She was the second among the three children of late Mr. Louise and Mrs.
Lucy D’Silva.
She entered religion on 6 th July 1955, made her First Profession on 2 nd
February 1957 and her final profession on 2 nd February 1960 at
Marikunnu, Calicut; and celebrated her Diamond jubilee of profession on
2 nd February 2017.
Sr. Lucy’s life can be summarized in a few words. A committed
religious, rooted in prayer, hardworking, genuine and a zealous
missionary. She was a person who stretched out her hands to the needs of
others. She was always other oriented, genuine, full of love in her heart
for the young and old especially the sick sisters.
Sr. Lucy has played great role for the new foundations in Philippines and
Indonesia. Being a pioneer and the person responsible, as the Delegated
Councilor from 2003 to 2007, for our convents in Tagaytay and
Montevsita in the Philippians, Bali and Maumere in Indonesia; her
tireless work, selfless sacrifices, spontaneous dealings were remarkable
and brought remarkable results, specially winning the hearts of all those
who have crossed her path in the mission land.
Although frail in nature, her determination made her accept any
responsibility given to her. Never shirking any duty, she battled against
her ailments till she was able to move. The doctors could not diagnose
and it was only too late when it was declared that the cancer in her
stomach was in the last stages which had spread in all her vital organs.
As she was approaching the end she was given the Sacrament of
anointing of the sick and Holy Viaticum. All the sisters were at her
bedside praying and comforting her and she was conscious and
responded silently to the prayers till the end. It was at 2 pm. On the 18 th
of October 2017 in the “Fathers arms she rests forever…”. May Sr. Lucy
intercede for our holy Order! R.I.P.
Sr. Mary – Lucy Roche
3 rd March 1924 – 5 th October 2017
Sr. Mary, an Indian was born in Udupi, Mangalore on 3 rd March 1924 in
a pious family. She entered the convent in 1945 at Marikunnu - Calicut
and made her 1 st profession on 3 rd February 1947 and Final commitment
in 1950.
Sr. Mary was a simple and humble sister radiating joy with her smiling
face and childlike ways. She esteemed prayer life especially the Divine
Office which she loved to sing even in her old age. She was interested
and faithful to all the duties entrusted to her and had great love and
respect towards the Superiors, she lived in Marikunnu and Mysore
communities during her 72 years of religious life.
In her old age when she was unable to carry out the duties she would
walk about with the walker and a pink rosary in hand on the verandah.
She had great devotion to Mother Mary. Rosary was her powerful
weapon from which she would never part even when she was in bed.
God`s call came so suddenly on 5 th October morning. She was awake at
5. a.m. and was preparing to go for Mass. Since she was not well, the
superior asked her to rest. After the Holy Mass the sister found her
almost collapsing and immediately the Parish priest was called to anoint
her. The Doctor declared that she had a minor attack and had gone to
meet her creator with a smiling face.
Our dear Mother General also was present for the funeral as she was
visiting the houses in India.
We trust that Sr. Mary who lived up to the ripe old age continues to sing
the praises of the Lord as she loved to do it here on earth. May her soul
rest in peace! Dear Sr. Mary, pray for us. R.I.P.
Sr. M. Dorothy – Sophia Anthraper
10 th August 1946 – 23 rd June 2017
Sr. Dorothy, an Indian was born at Muttam, Ernakulam District of Kerala on
10 th August 1946. She was the sixth among the nine children of Mr. Abraham
Anthraper and Mrs. Mariakutty.
She entered religion on 24 th January 1966 at Marikunnu, Calicut, made her
First Profession on 2 nd February 1968, and her Final Profession in 1973. Sr.
Dorothy rendered her noble service at our various communities, Madras,
Mysore, Trivandrum, Kalamassery and Marikunnu.
Her fervent and faithful life in the community has made an indelible mark in
the hearts of the sisters who lived with her. She lived a simple and unassuming
life ever occupied with her duties and an intense prayer life. She was ever
punctual for the Choir duties and until the end she made use of her sweet
melodies to chant the Divine Office with fervor and precision. She would teach
the young sisters the various modes of chanting the Divine Office. In spite of
her fragile health she was ever ready to help the community with the
enthusiasm of a Novice and with an exemplary charity she would foresee the
needs of others in the community and lend her helping hand in fulfilling their
duties.
She received the guests with a glowing smile and an attentive hospitality,
interceding before the throne of the Almighty on behalf of the people who
confided to her their various problems and intentions. She would forgo her
needs and help the poor whom she met at the gate. Her kind and merciful heart
was ever willing to listen and impart words of comfort and consolation to the
poor and the afflicted. Though she suffered from various kinds of illness she
never spared herself nor took any rest at the expense of her duties and
responsibilities.
On Sunday, 18 th June 2017 during the Holy Mass, all of a sudden Sr. Dorothy
felt sick and was taken to the nearby Nirmala Hospital run by the Ursuline
Sisters. The Angiogram report showed only a minor block in the heart which
could be treated with the medicines. She looked happy and spoke with the
sisters as usual. But on the 23 rd June suddenly a massive heart attack took her
beautiful soul to God, assisted by the Last Sacraments. She passed away
peacefully in the Lord on Friday, the Feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, whom
she had a great devotion and the Merciful God took His beloved daughter on
that Sacred Day.
Dear Sr. Dorothy, intercede to the Lord for our Mother Abbess General and for
the whole Order R.I.P.!
Sr. M. Imelda – Teresa Gonsalves
17 th October 1922 – 6 th March 2017
Sr. M. Imelda, an Indian, was born at Mangalore, on 17 th October 1922. She
entered the religion in 1947 at Calicut, while enjoying a fruitful career as
teacher. She made her first Profession on 3 February 1949 and her final
Profession on 3 February 1952.
When the Lord called her to his eternal dwelling to be always with Him, on 6 th
March 2017, she had to her credit 70 years of religious life, and these 70 years
of her religious life can be summed up in two words: fidelity and complete
abandonment to the will of God.
Sr. M. Imelda, soon after her formation was appointed as novice mistress and
later as superior at the same convent at Marikunnu. Her first transfer from the
novitiate house was to Pallavaram as superior of the community. From
Pallavaram she was transferred to Trivandrum as the first superior of the new
House. Later she was in Mangalore and in 1992 returned to Pallavaram
community and remained here till she breathed her last. It was her wish to
breathe her last here because the Community, as well as the Parish community,
held a special place in her heart since She spend more than half of the years of
her religious life here.
Sr. M. Imelda was highly appreciated for her dedication and love for the Order.
When we look at her person, she was genuine, generous, gifted, grateful, and
above all prayerful. She was an embodiment of optimism, of energy and hard
work. She had the indole open, she accepted all that was good without
hesitation, so she left a mark in the annals of Bridgettine History.
Sr. M. Imelda was ill for quite long time; her ups and downs were painful.
Even in her old age she never confined herself to her room but always on the
move until the fatal fall on Dec 8 th 2016 brought her down to her bed. We
prayed and hoped that she would overcome the illness, but God found her
ready for heaven. On the afternoon of 6 th March 2017 she bid farewell, leaving
behind sweet memories of a life well lived for the greater glory of God.
The community at the convent at Pallavaram will not forget her easily because
she still lives among us with her charming spiritual presence and in the
presence of the poor who speak volume of her generosity. Sr. Imelda was an
asset to our Order during her earthly life and we are sure she will continue to
be a great asset to each one of us from her heavenly home. R.I.P.
Sr. M. Georgia – Aleykutty Charalamkunnal
18 th February 1936 – 15 February 2017
Sr. M. Georgia was born on 18 th Febuary 1936 in a pious family at
Thodupuzha. Among seven children she was the youngest daughter of
Charalamkunnel Joseph and Maria.
The young Alikutty recognized the call of God within her and decided to
dedicate herself to Jesus and joined the Bridgettine family at Marikunnu.
She was a fervent Novice and she made her first commitment to God on
6 th August 1963 and she offered herself totally to the Divine Master and
made her final profession in the year 1966.
Sr. Georgia was very noble in character, her radiant smile and friendly
approach attracted many people to find Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament.
She was a person of goodness, prayer, and panctuality. She sensed the
needs of the community as well as the individual sisters and offered her
assistance generously in order to help them. She was a person who
transmitted goodness to the young sisters in the community as a loving
and caring mother. She carried out the office of 2 nd Councilor for many
years. She was active till her last moment. She served the Trivandrum
community, for the last 24 years.
“Death will come like a thief” it was very true of our dear Sister Georgia.
God prepared a beautiful dwelling place in heaven for His beloved
spouse.
On 12 th February 2017 morning she found difficult to breath, so she was
hospitalized. The same day evening she suffered from a stroke and was
paralyzed.
After having received the anointing of the sick she slept in the Lord on
15 th Feb. 11.50 P.M. The community of Trivandrum gratefully
remembers our dear Sr. Georgia. She was a lamp that lit and placed on
the pedestal. May her soul rest in peace! R.I.P.
Sr. M. Diana – Anna Mini Varkey Mekkatt
17 th December 1968 – 28 th October 2015
An Indian, was born in Peravoor, Kerala, on December 17 th
1968. On 8 th September 1991 begun her Postulancy at
Marikunnu and in 1992 was sent to Rome, where she continued
her religious formation at the Mother House, and made her First
Profession on 8 th September 1994. On April 11 th 2000 in the
Jubilee Year made her Perpetual Vows. Some years she was at
the Mother House then later on transferred to Assisi, Farfa, Via
delle Isole, Camaldoli and again to Via delle Isole. She had a
strong and determined character, always smiling and cheerful
and liked very much the music.
Sr. Diana had a delicate health. The last three years was under
treatment, but no one could discover the disease from which she
was suffering. For the last eight months she was admitted in
various hospital, but the one at Forlì – Italy, finally diagnosed
her illness, but it was too late and there wasn’t much to do. It
was a rare disease. Sr. Diana was in the waiting list for the
transplant of lungs that was the only and final treatment could
do and she was looking forward to it. The last months she took
part in the Holy Mass and other community activities. Until her
last breath she was holding a small cross and a red rosary.
In spite of the seriousness of the illness, no one would have ever
thought of such an imminent death, in the matter of few hours
with a cardiac collapse! While the paramedic called in
emergency were trying to help her and the Sisters reciting the
chaplet of Divine Mercy, around 3.00 PM on 28 th October 2015,
Sr. Diana flew to Heaven after 24 years of religious life. Thus
terminated her earthly suffering.
We will always remember her beautiful smile. Dear Sr. Diana,
please pray for us. R.I.P.!
Sr. M. Christine – Mary Avarappat
18th February 1939 – 9 th October 2015
Sr. M. Christine was born on February 18, 1939 in
Kothamangalam (Kerala), India, the second of five children.
She entered the Order on 16 th July 1960 at Marikunnu, where
she made her First Profession on February 3, 1962 and the
Perpetual Vows on February 3, 1965.
In 1982 she was called to Rome and from there shortly after
left for the community of Darien. She returned to Rome in
1986, and in the early 90's was transferred to Iver Heath, where
she was a superior. Later on she was transferred to Italy in
various communities, and here she was a great help with our
apostolate with guests, especially in Farfa, Camaldoli and
Olgiata. Finally, in 2011 because of her ill health, had to return
to Marikunnu.
She suffered from Parkinson's and Alzheimer disease, in the
last 10 months she was forced to stay in bed. Her condition was
very pitiful that she could not even lift a finger. In silence with
no complain knew to bear her sufferings. She was conscious
until the last and was well prepared to meet her Savior. On
Friday, October 9, 2015 at 21.40, while the sisters sang and
recited prayers, she flew to heaven peacefully.
Sr. Christine was a committed religious, humble, faithful and
devoted, very energetic, brave, hardworking and with many
talents, especially for sewing and music. Ever ready to render
service for the good of the community. Obedient to the
Superiors until her last breath. And she was always engaged in
her total donation to God, who now intercedes for us from
heaven. R.I.P.
Sr. M. Raphael – Juliana Miranda
28 March 1917 – 19 March 2015
Indian nationality, was born in Hospet, Karnataka, on March
28, 1917, entered the convent at Marikunnu - Calicut on
December 7, 1938, where Sr. Raphael made her First
Profession on February 2, 1943 and Perpetual Vows on
February 2, 1946.
At the end of the 1950s Sr. Raphael left for Rome. Remained at
the Mother House for many years. Later on was transferred to
Via delle Isole and remained there until the end for 40 years,
working as long as she could with the elderly ladies, then who
were sojourned there.
Sr. Raphael loved the common life, prayed with enthusiasm
and rarely was absent from the choir. Always present for the
daily Eucharistic Adoration. In fact, in the prayer she found her
comfort and the strength to go forward. To all of us left an
example of a good, holy religious, always grateful for the help
received from the Sisters especially in the last days.
Jokingly used to say that she would like to see her centennial.
Her departure from this world was a little unexpected. At the
dawn on March 19, Saint Joseph came and took her to heaven.
Several Priests and a Deacon concelebrated the Mass, now
from heaven Sr. Raphael will help us, praying also for good
and holy vocations. R.I.P.
Sr. M. Eugene – Philomena Moolayil
May 1, 1961 – March 3, 2015
Sr. M. Eugene, is lovingly remembered in the heart of all those
who had known her. She was born as the fourth child among
the ten children on 1 st May 1961 in Alakkode - Kannur District
- Kerala - India. To consecrate her life totally to Jesus she
joined the Bridgettine convent at Kozhikode in 1983. Through
the religious formation Sr. Eugene attained the clear insight of
the consecrated life and made her First Profession on 2 nd
February in 1986 and the Final Profession in 1993.
Sr. Eugene served the communities at Mysore, Puttur,
Marikunnu and for the last 22 years in the community at
Kalamassery, where she benefitted her praise worthy service in
the catechetical ministry at St. Pius X Church.
Sr. Eugene was regarded for a particular prophetic gift from the
Lord and spent many hours in the presence of the Eucharistic
Lord, imploring God for all those who approached her with the
request of prayer. Sr. Eugene, in fact, guided many people on
the path of conversion and peace, welcoming every one with an
open heart. She suffered a lot physically but the Lord lifted her
up from distress. She asked the Lord for sufferings and pains in
order to offer it for the sanctification of her beloved Order.
On February 6 th Sr. Eugene was hospitalized due to pneumonia
and on the 9 th she herself asked and received the Last
Sacraments. Then Sr. Eugene was on ventilator for 22 days
and the Lord called her to Himself on 3 rd March 2015.
Sr. Eugene had a befitting farewell ceremony attended by
many priests, religious and lay people who knew her.
May her soul Rest in Peace.
Sr. M. Dolores – Beatrice Miranda
18 th September 1931- 12 th June 2014
Sr. Dolores Miranda, an Indian was born in Cannanore, Kerala, on 18 th
September 1931, as the second among the 6 girls. She lost her parents
at an early age, took up employment for ten years with the British
Commonwealth Company at Cannanore and she beautifully balanced
her duty to her younger sisters before God called her to the
Bridgettine family.
Sr. Dolores entered the Order in 1960, and after two years made her
First Profession and the Final Profession in 1965. She was transferred
to Lugano in 1966 and to Mother House in 1971 where she served as
personal secretary to then Mother General, Mother M. Hilaria
Laubenberger, afterwards as General Councillor and Secretary General
until1985. She fulfilled her task beautifully with her perfect English
and typing skill.
In 1986 she was transferred to Darien as Superior of the Community.
Due to her ill health she returned to India, to Nantoor in 1992. Sr.
Dolores was gentle, hardworking above all a devout religious. Her
systematic life, fidelity to her religious duties, Participation in the daily
Eucharistic celebration and community activities, sense of obedience
and prayerfulness are examples to be followed. Her joy in being in the
company of the community sisters was admirable.
Sr. Dolores suffered physically due to her hypertension, she silently
endured her difficulties without complaints and spent all her time
before the Blessed Sacrament. Often she used to be hospitalized but
her recovery was fast except for the last time. Sr. Dolores, gratefully
acknowledged every little act of kindness toward her with a sweet
smile & with her prompt Thank you.
Sr. Dolores was an exemplary Bridgettine, a holy religious. She loved
her vocation, the Order, and every individual sisters. She peacefully
passed away in the Lord on 12 th June 2014. May her soul rest in peace!
R.I.P.
Sr. M. Leonie – Anna Lillykutty Orathel
11th July 1959 - 10 January 2013
Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation, the old has
passed away, behold the new has come (2 Cor.5:17)
Sr. Leonie (Lillykutty) the 3 rd child among the 9, born on 11 th July
1959 to Orathel Joseph and Mary from Angadikkadavu parish, belongs
to the Archdiocese of Tellichery. She joined the Bridgettine Order in
the year 1978 and made her final vows in the year 1986. She has
served our different communities with dedication and love.
Sr. Leonie was diagnosed with lung cancer in January 2012 at the least
expected time as she had no symptoms of the disease. She was
admitted in St. Martha’s Hospital, later in HCG cancer care institute,
then at St. Philomena’s hospital. She was regaining health, but
suddenly deteriorated with acute pains. Sisters were aware of her
seriousness, but never thought that death would steal her away silently.
Death is a reality but the whole Order stormed heavens to keep her
with us for some more time. But God has His own ways which mortals
cannot understand and she flew to Heaven on 10 th January 2013. When
the sickness took a toll on her life, Sr.Leonie was confined to the room
where the air was filled with praise and prayer.
Sr. Leonie’s life can be summarized with few words, a committed
religious, and content with minimum, hard working, talented, humble,
genuine, faithful religious. She was always had a peaceful, serene
countenance, she found joy in kneeling before the Lord in Adoration,
always ready at any time. Dear Sr. Leonie, God has you in His bosom
and we have you in our hearts, intercede for your beloved Order. R.I.P.
Sr. M. Assuntha - Mary Pappanacheril
18 th September 1929 – 28 th July 2012
The souls of the righteous are in the hands of the Lord (Wisdom 3:1).
These words of the sacred Scripture are literally true in the life of our dear
Sr. M. Assuntha. She was born in Kuravilangad, Kerala on 18 th
September 1929 in a pious family. She entered the Bridgettine Order in
1948 along with her younger sister Angela and made their first profession
in 1952, on 3 rd February 1955 made their final Profession. Sr. Assuntha
had served the Order in different communities in India and a few years in
Rome.
Sr. Assuntha was very simple, hardworking and active till the last
moment. She would never give up the community prayer and often she
used to be found in the chapel before the Most Blessed Sacrament.
Sister was suffering from Parkinson and she was highly diabetic for
many years. On 28 th July, morning she was taken as usual to the
hospital for periodical check-up and found her sugar level very high.
Hence the medication was given and she was brought back to the
convent around 5 pm. Within half an hour Sr. Assuntha left for eternity
answering the call of her Divine Spouse. The shock of the community
who gathered around her bed was unimaginable.
As she lived she bade farewell to this world quietly. We miss her every
moment of the day.
Dear Sister Assuntha as you enjoy the bliss of heaven, intercede with
the Lord for our dear Order. R.I.P.
Sr. M. Aurelia – Theresia Edathinakam
21 February 1943 – 5 March 2011
“For me to live is Christ and to die is gain” Phil. 1: 21.
A life that bore abundant fruits and remained as His faithful servant was
called back to her Master’s House on 5th March 2011. Our Sr.Aurelia
Edathinakkam lived for Christ and flew to Heaven to reap her reward.
She was born at Kuretty – Kottayam in Kerala, in the year 1943 to God-
fearing parents Dominic and Eliza, who accepted her decision to give
herself totally to God. She was the 6th child among her 5 brothers and
one sister. She joined the Bridgettine Order and made her First
Profession on 8 th October 1965, and made her Final Profession on 8 th
October 1968.
Sr. Aurelia devoted her life in an unassuming manner with fidelity and
loyalty to God and to the Order; she was a person of few words, quiet
and serene. She utilized her special talent of art and embroidery in
adorning the Altar linen, making liturgical vestments and stitching
habits and veils for all the sisters. She fulfilled her responsibilities with
great perfection and accuracy. She held the office of local councillor
and bursar, Delegation Councillor and Bursar. Sr. Aurelia suffered from
arthritis which forcefully made her life slow down.
Sr. Aurelia used to face the painful situations with calmness. During her
last days, though she suffered much, she used to say “I am much better
than before” and always enquired about those who came to see her in
her illness.
Sr. Aurelia spent 33, out of 47 years of her religious life in the
Delegation house at Bangalore. It was an additional sacrifice to her to
leave her beloved community at Bangalore and go to Kalamassery and
then to Marikunnu for treatment. She suffered much pain and
underwent her share of Calvary through her illness.
As she was showing the signs of recovery we hoped that she was
regaining her strength and health. But the call of God came so sudden
as she was struggling with breathlessness on 4 th march afternoon and
immediately she was hospitalized. But nothing could resist her flight to
heaven, on the 5 th morning she breathed her last. May the Lord open the
gates of Paradise to our dear Sr. Aurelia! R.I.P. and pray to the Lord for us and our beloved
Order. R.I.P.
Sr. M. Bertha – Aley Kannathukuzhyil
February 22 nd 1938 – 27 th August 2010
Sr. Bertha was born on 22 nd February 1938 at Muvattupuzha,
Kothamangalam diocese, in Kerala as the 5 th child among the 6 children
of Mr. Joseph and Aley.
She entered the Convent at Marikunnu on 20 th February 1963, made her
first profession on 3 rd February 1966, and made her final profession on
3 rd February 1972 at Marikkunnu. Sr. Bertha rendered her selfless
services in the communities of Marikunnu, Madras, Trivandrum and
Kalamassery.
Sr. Bertha was very simple in nature and her childlike simplicity won
the hearts of all those who came in contact with her. She loved her
family and the Bridgettine family alike. She had a great love for the
Church and sacrificed her time and energy for the well fare of the
parish church even in her sick bed. She was gifted with very good hand
writing and she made use that gift to keep in touch with the benefactors
of our convents during the difficult periods of our communities in India.
Even though Sr. Bertha had been suffering more than one year from
critical illness, she used to say often that the Good Lord has spared her
from pain. Towards the end she had to undergo surgical treatment as
she had a very bad fall causing the fracture of her thigh born. But she
was daring and received the anointing of the sick with full
consciousness and even singing and praising the Lord. So much so the
doctors and Nurses who attended on her were edified by the
graciousness of our dear Sister.
Sr. Bertha was ever grateful to the sisters of Kalamassery community
who assisted her day during her illness. During her last days Sr. Bertha
was privileged to have the presence of dear Mother Delegate, Mother
Regina Kalathil. She said to Mother “I am not afraid of death and I am
just waiting to go to my heavenly fathers’ home and I can already see
the angels standing around me”.
The dawn of 27 th August found Sr. Bertha suffering from breathlessness
and she started sinking. At 2.15 pm while doctors and nurses were
making every effort to ease her breathlessness and the sisters praying
the name of Jesus Mary Joseph around her bed, the soul of our dear Sr.
Bertha flew to heaven to join the band of Bridgettines in heaven.
Dear Sr. Bertha, intercede and pray to the Lord for us and our beloved
Order. R.I.P.
Sr. M. Alberta – Regina Fernandes
February 20 th 1944 – December 27 th 2008
Born in Goa (India) on February 20, 1944. Entered the religion, the
Bridgettine Convent at Marikunnu, at the age of 23, in 1967, where she
made her First Profession on May 4 th 1969. She spent the following 4
years in Mysore, while on May 4 th 1974 she was again back to
Marikunnu for the Final Profession.
She was of simple character, performed her duties with conscientiously
and dedication. In 1976 was transferred to Rome to the House at Piazza
Farnese and here she remained until her death.
Sr. Alberta was differentiated for her admirable faithfulness not only to
her daily task, but also and in particular toward the person of Rev.
Mother Abbess General, Mother Tekla, for whom she had a special
care which she rendered until her last days, all her love and loyalty.
She spent, in fact, most of her time near Mother, always available with
her little services.
For years she was suffering from Diabetes and other complications
encountered during the last years, many times she had been admitted in
the hospital, but always patiently she waited to return to the Convent,
where with great joy she performed her “duty” to remain near her
“santa”, name she used to call Rev. Mother lovingly.
Tree weeks prior to her death she was admitted in the hospital, where
she was taken well care of, but the last night her conditions deteriorated
for the kidney failure and cardiac collapse and on December 27, at
13.45, Sr. Alberta left this world. Mother was by her that same
morning, even though the doctors did not allow her to see because she
was transferred in the ICU.
Sr. Alberta, for her simplicity and goodness of her heart, was very dear
to all the Sisters, above all to the ones at Mother House, where she
spent most of her life. Now from Heaven she intercedes for us all, but
in particular for dearest Mother. R.I.P.
Sr. M. Helen – Mary Ithyparambil
1932 November 9 –7 th July 2008
Sr. Helen was born on 9 th November 1932 in Ithiparambil family at
Kumbalangi, Kerala, as the daughter of Mr. Joseph and Anna. She
was 9 th child among the 10 children. Following the path of her elder
sister, Sr. Laetitia, Sr . Helen responded to God’s call and made her
first profession in 1961 and said her eternal YES to the Lord in 1964.
Rooted in Missionary Spirit, in 1978 Sr. Helen went to Rome, and she
served the communities of America, Sweden and England for long 20
years of her life. In 1998 Sr. Helen returned to India and served the
communities of Kalamassery, Trivandrum and Marikunnu.
She had a robust health and she worked hard to help the community.
The last six months of Sr. Helen’s life was a real sharing in the Passion
of Jesus. Her ardent devotion to the Sacred heart of Jesus gave her
strength to suffer for the Lord.
Sr. Helen’s speech was lost and she became a witness to the silent
world. This suffering was very painful because she could not
communicate anything especially in her pain and
sufferings. Gradually her health deteriorated and was not able to take
any food and she had to depend on liquid to sustain her life.
She was a person of prayer, and many parishioners used to visit her to
ask for prayer in their struggles of life. She wanted sisters to be
around her and often she asked to pray and sing loudly. She had great
love and respect for priests and always offered prayers for them.
As she breathed her last on 7 th July at 5.30 p.m., our Bishop Joseph
Kalathilplarambil and few priests were offering prayers at her death
bed. Sr. Helen was looking very calm and fresh, as if she was in deep
sleep. Her face was so bright and grace filled, she was purified in the
furnace of suffering. May her soul enjoy the peace of the Lord
together with all the angels and saints. Dear Sr. Helen intercede for us
all. R.I.P.
Sr. M. Martha – Anna Manjulamalayil
1929 April 26 – 2008 26 th June
Sr. Martha was born on 26 th April 1929 in Manjulamalayil family
at Kuravilangadu , Kerala as the daughter of Mr. Joseph and
Mary. She was the 5 th among the 6 children. God chose her as
His bride and she chose Bridgettine Order together with her
younger sister Sr. Candida. She made her first vows in 1949 and
made her final vows in 1952. In 1962 she went to Italy, lived long
16 years serving different communities in Europe. 1978 she
returned to India served the communities of Kalamassery,
Trivandrum and Marikunnu.
Sr. Martha was very quiet in nature, one hardly could notice her
presence in the community except through her hard work. The
evening of her earthly life was filled with suffering, but there
were no complaints from her except she could not bear the
breeze. She spent her time in praying in the chapel, always
Rosary in the hand.
Sr. Martha was person who was very much afraid of medicines
and doctors. From March onwards Sr. Martha was very sick and
she was in and out of the Hospital. Sr. Martha suffered intense
pain and discomfort in breathing. She had been in the intensive
care unit for quite long where the doctors and nurses tried their
best to ease her pain and suffering.
She was always grateful to the sisters who assisted her during her
illness. She often repeated that she is ready to meet Jesus.
Sisters from Marikunnu community took turn to be near her
death bed praying Rosaries and other prayers to comfort her.
On 26 th June at 1.30 a.m. Sr. Martha concluded her earthly
mission and passed to eternity. Dear Sr. Martha intercede before
the Lord, for our Holy order, for our beloved Mother General and
for all your dear sisters. We pray that you may rest in the abode
of peace and light. R.I.P.
Sr. M. Cecilia – Theresa S’Souza
9 th September 1925 – 13 th March 2008
Born of pious parents on 9 th September 1925 at Derebail, Mangalore (India),
she was the fourth among the five children of Mr. Lawrence and Sabina
D’Souza. At the age of eight she lost her mother and was brought up by her
maternal Aunt. She completed her studies in Lady Hill School and did her
teacher’s training at St. Ann’s, Mangalore, after which she was working as a
teacher in Lady Hill. Then she was appointed as Head Mistress in St. Rita’s
School Cassia from 1947 to 1952.
She entered the convent in 1953 at the age of 28, giving up her teaching carrier
to respond to God’s call to the life of prayer and adoration. She was strong,
energetic and ever prompt, and developed her talents with a sense of
responsibility.
On 3 rd February 1954 she made her First Profession and on 3 rd February 1959
she made her Final Profession. Sr. M. Cecilia had a hard time, made of
privation and sacrifices, yet she knew to accept everything as God’s will and
to drew profit for her spiritual enrichment. For many years she was a member
of the community of Bangalore where she carried out her duty as a warden,
there she proved her ability by putting up a beautiful hostel for the working
ladies. In 1976 she was transferred to Nantoor. Here she was entrusted with
the task of the Superior, for the new Foundation. In 1986 she was transferred
to puttur for construction of new Convent and hostel. In 1992 she was again
appointed as Superior of the House at Nantoor for three years and at this
Community she concluded her earthly life. In all these years she took courage
to steer the wheel of these new houses and to bear hardships calmly and
courageously. She derived strength from the Lord.
Sr. M. Cecilia was very jovial person, active, alert, available and
approachable. She had a very pleasant personality, friendly and kind. She
touched the lives of those who came to her by her kindness and gentle talk.
She loved very much the little children; she had a special corner for the priests.
As the age grew her memory began to deteriorate and she was not able to cop
up with the daily life. She suffered a lot physically with pain and was not able
to move about.
The long suffering of Sr. M. Cecilia came to an end on 13 th March 2008 at 3.00
a.m. at Fr.Muller’s Hospital Kankanady.
Dear Sr. M. Cecilia, the vacuum you have created in our lives by your
departure will never be filled up; your loving memories will remain always in
our heart. We believe in your intercession for all of us. R.I.P.
Sr. M. Zita – Anna Thanathuparambil
February 14, 1936 – June 9, 2006
Sr. M. Zita was born on 14th Feb. 1936 in Arakuzha, in Thodupuzha at
the diocese of Kothamangalam in Kerala. She was the 4 th child among the 6
children of Mathew Thanathuparambil and Eliza.
She entered the convent at Marikunnu, Calicut, in 1959 and made her
first profession on 4 th May 1961 and final commitment on 4 th May 1964.
Sr. Zita’s simplicity and ardent prayer life was an inspiration to the
young sisters in the community. She served the communities with an ever
smiling face and availability, always responding positively to the superiors
doing all her duties. She lived her 46 years of religious life in various
communities like Kalamassery, Puttur, Bangalore, Chikmagalur and her last
days in Trivandrum. She always showed her respect to those in authorities
and to her spiritual directors.
Sr. Zita lived her life in a quiet way, one can always picture her with
the Rosary beads rolling down through her fingers. Towards the end she was
suffering from breathlessness as she was a patient of Ischemic Heart Disease
for many years. But the end came unexpectedly. She breathed her last
silently as she lived on 9 th June 2006 at 11 A.M.
Dear Sr. Zita, intercede before the Lord for our Mother Abbess and for
the entire Order. R.I.P.
Sr. M. Gabriel – Letitia Pais
19 February 1917 – 17 January 2006
“Quick was the call,
surprised us all
only those who lost can tell
the loss of a dear Sister without a fare well”
Sr. Gabriel Pais an Indian was born on 19 th February 1917 in Urwa, Mangalore,
she joined the Convent at Marikunnu in 1938, made her First Profession on February 2,
1941 and the Perpetual Vows on February 2, 1946.
She was fondly called Laetitia, youngest among 8 children. Her family atmosphere
tuned her life to listen to the voice of the Lord in silence. Parents responded positively as
their four daughters decided to dedicate their lives to the service of God and His people as
Religious.
Her call to religious life bloomed in the Bridgettine garden where she pitched a
tent before the Blessed Sacrament.
She held many offices of responsibility as a Superior in various Communities in
India. The years that followed was the years of dedication in the service of ceaseless
efforts made to spread God’s love through her deeds.
As the days passed by Sr. Gabriel’s health was deteriorating and becoming weaker
and weaker. Finally the long years of sufferings of Sr. Gabriel came to an end on 17 th
January at 20:15. Sr. Gabriel bid farewell to her earthly existence in the midst of the
Community and in the presence of our Parish Priest Fr. Peter Noronha who were praying,
commenting her soul to the Lord.
As usual Sr. Gabriel had her daily pattern of life. Sisters had brought her to the
Chapel in the Wheel chair for the evening prayer and had recreation as well. The sign of
seriousness occurred after 18:30. Immediately all the members gathered around her
bedside started praying, at 20:15 she bid farewell to her beloved Community. She had a
peaceful death without much struggle and her face was graceful.
Death is not an end itself; it opens the doors to eternal life. The journey of love,
dedication, sacrifice and life of prayer ended to start another journey to the eternal home.
R.I.P
Sr. M. Thecla – Lucy D’Souza
17 February 1927 – 19 February 2005
Death gives way to the life that dies no more.
“If we live, we live for the Lord, if we die, we die for the Lord, so whether
alive or dead we belong to the Lord” Rom.14:8. Sr. Thecla lived for the Lord
throughout her earthly pilgrimage and now in death she belongs totally to
Him.
Sr. Thecla was born on 17 th .Feb.1927 in Mangalore. She was the only child of
her devoted parents Paschal & Concepta D’Souza. She had her early studies in
Bantwal. For further studies she joined St. Agnes College in Mangalore, where
she displayed her talents as a brilliant student. At the end of her college studies
she took up her carrier as teacher for few years. During the course of time the
seed of a Religious vocation grew in her gradually. In 1950 the Late
Archbishop Albert D’Souza then her parish priest knowing her inclination to
prayer life guided her to the Bridgettine Order.
In 1952 made her Religious profession at Marikunnu Calicut. From the
beginning her motto was “ perfection” Knowing her abilities, she was sent to
Italy and U.K. where she readily gave her services. After her father’s death she
was anxious that there was nobody to look after her Mother who landed up in
St. Antony’s Institution in Mangalore. So our convent at Nantoor readily
offered to look after her till her last end. This was a great consolation for dear
Sr. Thecla. After many years abroad, her health was failing and she returned to
India . She lived a dedicated life, and was a model especially to the Juniors,
whom she used to instruct and teach especially in matters of Liturgy.
Sr. Thecla was gradually getting worse, and for the last 6 months she was
practically bedridden. She was fully conscious that her end was in sight. On
the 14 of February she took very ill, and we shifted her to the hospital, but the
doctors could do very little. She commended her spirit very peacefully in the
hands of the Lord on 19 th . February at 7.30 P.M. May her soul rest in peace!
R.I.P.
Sr. M. Agnes – Helen Rasquinha
17 August 1921 – 2 December 2003
Sr. M. Agnes was born on 17th August 1921 in Angel re parish, Mangalore.
She was the fifth child among eight children of Monthu Rasquinha and
Jovana D'Souza. She followed her brother who was a Benedictine monk and
her elder sister, Sr.Maurizia who belonged to the sisters of Charity, to work
for the growth of the kingdom of God through religious life.
She entered the convent at Marikunnu, calicut on 19th June 1942 and made
her first profession on 3rd February 1944. Her final commitment was on 3rd
February 1947. She has gone through lot of suffering from her young age in
the convent. She had a major operation at Vellore hospital of the spinalcord.
She was like the candle burned out before the altar of the Eucharistic Lord.
She was appointed Novice Mistress in 1968 to 1978 and then again from
1986 to 1989. She could not continue this very important service to the
Order due to her ill health. As the Novice Mistress for several years she
shaped and moulded her Novices through her example and spirit-filled life.
Our present Mother Delegate and many Superiors and sisters here in India
and abroad are her Novices.
She was one of the pioneer member and sister-in-charge of our convent at
Trivandrum. There too she underwent poverty, inconveniences and many
initial problems of 1978.
She was the first councillor and procurator of the community for several
years. The Bridgettines in India always remember her gracious presence in
Marikunnu. She was always pleasant, charitable and ever ready to help all
those who were in need. The last one year of her life was an year of moral
and physical suffering for her. One can say she has already gone through
purgatory here on earth. Though sick and suffering, the end came
unexpected. While many of the sisters were standing around her bed and
praying, suddenly she breathed her last and closed her eyes. About a month
ago she had received the Sacrament of the sick. She was well aware and
alive till the last. She dies peacefully and calmly in the night of 2nd
December 2003. May she rest in peace!
Sr.Agnes absence makes a void in the life of the Bridgettine convent in
Marikunnu where her life was consumed for 53 long years. Dearest
Sr.Agnes, pray for your dear sisters and Novices! R.I.P.
Sr. M. Angela - Clara Pappanaceril
18 February 1932 – 18 May 2002
From birth like a shadow follows the death. Even though it is a heart-aching
reality, still it is the start of a new life. Sr. M. Angela was born in a pious and well
known family on 18.2.1932 at Kuravilagand, Kerala. In 1948 with her Sister,
tapped at the Bridgettine Convent in Marikunnu. In 1952 she made her Perpetual
vows together with her sister. And together they celebrated the Jubilee on 2nd
February 2002.
She always held a responsible task and she was ever energetic to fulfil all
that had been entrusted to her. She played an important role towards the growth of
the Bridgettine Communities in India thus she visited Rome many times
representing India. She contributed her service and sacrifices willingly at the initial
stage of the new Communities by placing herself at the mercy of God who cares
the lilies of the field. She found strength in prayer and her strong faith made her to
accept every trial with admirable tranquillity to the great satisfaction of her
Superiors. The present Bridgettine generation has grown through her benevolent
hands. She is grateful to the Order that allowed her to grow up and through her
grew up the Order and many young members.
With her sickly Bridgettine sister, she went to visit the family and the Lord
called her to Himself in a very unexpected manner. As usual Sr. Angela got up in
the morning and greeted the family members but soon realized her inability to walk
up to the Church. An immediate medical check-up proved her ill health and after
having comforted by the last Sacraments and prayers of the Sisters who were
around her bed, Sr. Angela made her way to heaven peacefully. She was always
calm and serene thus her passing to the new life too was very silent on 18 May
2002.
During her short visit, she expressed her desire to be buried in Kalamassery
and after ten days the Lord granted the wish of His beloved. With respect and pride
we say goodbye to you as we cherish your soft words and exemplary life. Sr.
Angela pray for us! R.I.P.
Sr. M. Nativita – Monti Crasta
14 December 1918 – 7 April 2001
Sr. Nativita was born of a pious family on 14 the December 1918 in Mangalore. The
catholic atmosphere engraved in her soul to be the spouse of Christ in a convent and with
such aim she grew up. She left her home town and entered the new convent at Marikunnu
on 24 th May 1937, few weeks after the first Bridgettine Sisters reached from Rome to
India. She was one of the first three candidates who joined thus joining herself among
the pioneer Bridgettine group in India. She pronounced her first Vows on 16 th Nov.1940.
As usual the early days of this new foundation formed her soul and body, so to be a
cheerful and loyal soldier of Christ. Lack of food and rest and above all the new
language melted her zealous spirit like gold in the furnace so to shine for Jesus alone.
Her soft words and gentle movement attracted the young and old alike in the community.
She loved to pray aloud, she loved the animals and plants and for this reason she spoke
to them thus expressing her joy and gratitude to God for the beautiful creation. She
worked strenuously for the welfare of the community. She was always a candidate for the
new Foundations in Madras, Kalamassery and Myosre. Wherever she went she did her
level best to help the community. In Mysore, she was in charge of preparing hosts for the
entire Diocese and this task she did with great affection and devotion. Even in her old age
she was recalling about it with joy. Through strict personal discipline she acquired and
enjoyed good health of mind and body and was very respectful to the Superiors and
Sisters. In her simplicity she was ever ready to do any comic to make others happy. Her
ardent devotion to Our Lady made her to be another Mary in the convent. Away from
work, she held the rosary in hand so to say any number of rosaries with the Sisters and
run to the chapel to be with Jesus.
Few days before her death, she attended a retreat preached in our parish. Just two days
in bed with fever and a few hours in the hospital where she made everybody happy with
her innocent jokes. While reciting the rosary, she breathed her last on 7 th April at 2 p.m.,
leaving a lasting memory of love and innocence on her sisters. May her soul rest in
peace. Pray for us dear sister Nativita. R.I.P.
Sr. M. Livia - Presilla Swamydass
6 March 1974 – 1 January 2001
Sr. M. Livia, an Indian National, came to Rome in 1997 in order to
begin her Novitiate in St Bridget’s House, Piazza Farnese, together with
other two Postulants coming from Tamil Nadu.
She had a jovial character, full of life and always a spontaneous
smile for whom ever she came in contact. During work she enjoyed herself
greatly with the other sisters and was always willing to do any service with
eagerness to learn everything.
She loved to remain before the Blessed Sacrament in Adoration also
because from the time she was a very young girl this devotion had been
instilled in her. While she was still a Novice, she said, that one morning,
after having received permission from her Novice Mistress, she would have
got up only for Holy Mass, because she didn’t not feel well. After the
second bell someone bent over her saying, “Go on, get up for prayers!” and
she could see St Michael’s wing clearly with his red cloak, After this
episode she never wanted to miss prayers.
Once she had made her first profession in Mother House on
November 11th 1999 she was transferred to the small community of
Olgiata in via Cassia, where she jokingly said: “Perhaps St. Michael doesn’t
know my new address.
Later on she was asked to go to the community of Assisi where she
would end her days prematurely. The sisters of the community in Assisi
said that she had worked up to the last moment. That day before the
vespers, she had gone to ring the bell but did not return to the choir, she
was, in fact, lying on the ground bathed in blood and in a weak voice cried
for help.
Let us give a report in Mother General’s words written in the circular
letter Prot 1/01 to announce her death: “Our little daughter Sr. M. Livia...
suddenly felt unwell... we took her to the clinic immediately in Assisi, where
she was given a blood transfusion... However, the sister said to Sr.
Marcellina: “Give me my rosary. I think I’m dying”. Since her situation did
not improve, the doctors, with our permission decided to operate, but to no
avail, because her body was totally covered in blood; she was closed up
again... but the sister took her flight to the Father’s house. It was 4.30 am.
on the first day of the year 2001.
Sr. Livia was the first daughter born in her family and her parents had
offered this flower to Jesus. From the time she was little she had always
wanted to be a good nun. They waited for her in India with so much love
and after learning the sad news they wrote to Mother Abbess through their
tears. “Our beloved daughter had come to the Holy City, now she is dead
and buried in Holy ground but all this was the will of God”. Certainly she
intercedes for us now from heaven. R.I.P.
Sr. M. Bernadet - Rosa Noronha
19 December 1913 – 19 September 2000
“If we live, we live for the Lord, if we die, we die for the Lord, so
whether alive or dead we belong to the Lord” (Rm, 14,8). These words of
St Paul were appropriately read at the Eucharistic Celebration on the day
of Sr. Bernadet’s funeral. She had lived for the Lord throughout her earthly
pilgrimage and now in death she belongs totally to Him.
Sr. Bernadet, our lovely “Rose in the Bridgettine bouquet” in the
garden of the order of the Most Holy Saviour of St Brigid, lived among us
radiating love and perfume of the rarest kind. Sr. Bernadet, “The beautiful
Rose”, the last of eight children, was born on December 19th 1913. In
1934, she came to Rome with other three companions, young, vibrant and
attractive girls, who took up the adventure of the riskly journey to Rome
guided by Rev. Fr. E. Beretta S.J. in order to be instructed by our noble
and heroic Mother Foundress, Blessed M.E. Hesselblad, putting the seal,
as it were, on Bridgettine History in India - Therefore she is lovingly
remembered and rightly called “pioneer” member, who lit the flame of
Bridgettine Spiritual life and holiness in our country. This is the first
sentiment of gratitude and admiration of her heroism which flash in our
heart.
By her characteristic qualities of modesty, simplicity, affection and
fascinating manner, she conquered the hearts of her many devoted
friends, civil and ecclesiastic, She lived her life with a passionate love of
the Sacred Liturgy singing the Divine Office and finding joy and satisfaction
in writing her mystical poems, She felt proud of being “the little rose”, as
our Blessed Mother affectionately called her and “The gracious Rose” of
Jesus, her beloved spouse-
In His goodness, God granted Sr. Bernadet a long life on earth full of
graces and blessings and we could not expect more of God. She enjoyed
good health and happiness in her life. We have a glimmer of her spiritual
life in her writings: “Jesus, you rectify the petals on your imperfect Rose”.
On the occasion of her golden jubilee she wrote: “For 50 years I
recited the Divine office with ever more fervour and care. Lord, your love,
you have shown me through the goodness and tenderness of my superiors
and of my sisters”.
During her final illness, she received Holy Communion daily and the
Sacrament of the sick before meeting her Spouse. On September 19th,
2000 at approximately 8.15, Our Lord Jesus Christ called her while she
was surrounded by so many of her sisters who were praying for her.
Our beloved Mother General, in her letter wrote on the occasion of her
passing on: “The departure of a sister is always a great sadness to us all,
but also joy because they are not dead but they live in the Lord”. R.I.P.
Sr. M. Luka - Carmine Pinto
8 July 1911 - 24 March 1998
Sr.M.Luka, an Indian was born at Ferar, Mangalore, on 8 July
1911. She joined the Convent on 5 December 1937 as she was
accepted by Mother M.Francis, the first Superior of Marikunnu.
Rev.Fr.Edward Beretta was instrumental in bringing her to the Convent.
She was of a robust constitution, ever ready to do any hard work and in
the initial stages of the new foundation she went through countless
hardships, unnoticed sacrifices and privations.
She made her first religious Profession on 16 November 1940.
Sr.Luka was a very simple, humble and prayerful soul, very respectful
and loving towards her Superiors, ardently devoted to the blessed
Sacrament and our Blessed Lady. She was the portress for several
years. She welcomed every person at the door with affection and
concern. She wept with those in tears and rejoiced with those in
gladness. She was in charge of the orphange where she showed her
maternal qualities by taking care of the children without minding her rest
and food. She saw in every child the image of God. She loved the poor
and worked with them in the compound thus helping them in the best
possible manner.
In 1993 she had a fall which injured her brain and it affected her
memory power of and for this reason she was confined to her room. Her
condition grew worse in the last seven months as she was deprived of
solid food and having lost the power of speech. Her serene countenance
showed that she bore the trial with patience and resignation and offered
her life to God like sweet scented incense and its fragrance will be
cherished by all at Marikunnu.
Sr.Luka was indeed the heart of our community. She continues to
intercede on our behalf. Sr.Luka is physically absent but we feel her
presence in every corner of the house, as every plant and tree in the
garden speak of her. She was a model to our community for 60 years.
She kept her lamp burning: the lamp of faith and love, humility and
obedience. She loved her vocation and was faithful to the end. Our
Blessed Mother Mary on the eve of the feast of Annunciation at midnight
took her soul to God on 24 March 1998. We are ever grateful to Sr.Luka.
May her soul rest in peace. R.I.P.
Sr. M. Lucy - Lucy Elanjipuram
12 November 1950 - 21 October 1995
Lucy Elanjipuram, Indian, was born on 12 November
1950 at Changanachery Kerala. She was the only daughter of
her parents. She entered the convent at Marikunnu, Calicut on
14 September 1971 and made her Temporary Vows on 2nd
February 1974 and courageously took her final commitment on
2nd February 1979.
She was a good, pious soul, dedicated to prayer and to
her duties. In her work she was very precise and edifying. She
spent 23 years out of 24 years of her religious life in the
Novitiate house at Calicut; She had a special preference for
this cradle of our Order in India. She excelled in faithful and
punctual observance of the Rules and Constitutions, thus
leaving a lasting mark on the young sisters who are trained
there.
She devoted her life in an unassuming manner with
courage, fortitude and loyalty to God and the Order. She
utilized her special talent of art and embroidery in adorning the
Altar linen. She fulfilled her responsibilities with great perfection
and accuracy and the Order counted much on her. She held
the office of local bursar and local councillor for several years,
until the fateful disease manifested its symptoms.
It was an additional sacrifice to her to leave her beloved
community at Calicut and go to Bangalore for treatment. She
suffered much pain and underwent her share of calvary during
8 months of her illness. As she was showing the signs of
recovery we had the hope of her regaining strength and health.
But the call of God came so sudden and so shocking on 21
October 1995 at 8.30 am. May the Lord open the gates of
paradise to our beloved Sr.Lucy. R.I.P.
Sr. M. Tarcisia - Maud Lobo
13 February 1933 - 3 March 1993
“The souls of the righteous are in the hands of God, and no
torment will ever touch them” (Wis;3:11). Sr.Tarcisia Lobo was born
at Milagris in Mangalore on 13 February 1933, the fourth in a family
of six chidlren where four are in religious life. The strong traits of
her personality such as asceticism and serenity, together with a
heroic endurance manifested themselves from an early age. Those
who knew her personally would recall her characteristic virtues of
patience, kindness, meekness and gentleness which shone forth in
a definite and refined character in “Maud” as an young girl and a
woman.
She joined the Order at the age of seventeen and made her
religious Profession on 3rd Febraury 1952. She was chosen as the
first Indian Bridgettine for pioneering a new foudnation of the Order
in Connecticut USA. In 1969 Sr.Tarcisia was sent to Rome to
attend Theological studies and subsequently she was elected as
General Councillor at Curia Generaliza in Rome.
After twenty years away from India, Sr.Tarcisia yearned to
retrun to India in order to exercise her missionary vocation. Her
heart went out to the poor, the needy and like her Master who felt
sorry when he saw the crowd, “for they were harassed and
dejected, like sheep without a shepherd”(Mt.9:37). In India she held
office as Junior Mistress and Delegation Councillor in Bangalore
and later Superior at Nantoor.
In 1990 the first signs of a brain tumour which proved to be
malignant made her share the motto “ My love is crucified”. Her
silent sufferings through two brain operations, along with the
gradual loss of the use of all her faculties, edified everyone. Ripe to
the core with sufferings patiently borne Sr.Tarcisa’s soul flew from
our midst to eternity to share the glorious resurrectuion of her
Saviour Lord Jesus on 3rd March 1993. R.I.P.
Sr. M. Mathea - Natalia Furtado
21 June 1905 - 28 July 1992
“ONE WITH THE ETERNAL”
Natalia was born on 21 June 1905 in Mangalore and her soul
returned to the Father’s embrace on 28 July 1992 at 7 00 a.m.
God had special designs on Natalia as her age kept running
towards 32. The prayerful spirit in her was amply rewarded when
the new Bridgettine Order wasestablished at Calicut. A life of
Adoration by day and by night to aid the missionaries. The Abbess
Mother Francisca rejoiced over the fourth candidate endowed with
robust constitution and full of life. Thus the community of Marikunnu
began to grow. Young Natalia surpassed every privation and
difficulty with courage and zeal. She loved Mother Elisabeth. Other
than her mother tongue, she spoke English, Malayalam and Italian.
She made her perpetual Profession on 16 November 1943 and
took the name Sr. Mathea.
Sr. Mathea was transferred to the house of Kalamassery in
1962 and she remained there for 30 years until she answered the
heavenly call. Sr. Mathea celebrated the 25 and 50 anniversary of
Profession in 1962 and 1990 respectively. With devotion and love,
she fulfilled all her duties of the house, in the garden and in the
kitchen. She loved the Community and the Order and scrupulously
observed the Rule. Devotion to the Eucharist brightened her days.
Her angelic smile attracted souls and she was ever grateful to God,
to the Superiors, to the community and to the benefactors for their
gifts. Until 1987 she worked with a strong will. When she could not
do any work prayer became her overpowering strength and she
was always found in the choir with a rosary in her hand.
On 28 July, Jesus received her into his kingdom of peace and
joy. R.I.P.
Sr. Lourdes Mary - Jabamala Anthoniswamy
17 November 1964 - 6 May 1991
Jabamala the 13th and last in the family was born on 17
November 1964 at Palaghat. In 1986 she entered in Mysore
and on 2 February 1989 made her first Profession at Calicut.
She enjoyed good health of mind and body thus became
a model to her companions. By nature spoke little but the
community felt her presence as she followed fully in the
community life.
In April she had to undergo a medical check up which
indicated her galloping Ovarian cancer.
Sr.Lourdes Mary accepted her illness with a smile by
preparing herself to go to heaven. She begged to make her
final Profession. Mother General granted her desire. To
pronounce her Vows, shechose the first friday of the month at
4.00 p.m. Everything happened in her room during the Holy
Mass of the Sacred Heart. It was 3 May and she was well
prepared so she asked her Mamma to get dressed for the
feast. She had written a letter to the community telling them to
join her in the celebration.
Deeply recollected and with great devotion she followed
Holy Mass. After the homily she was radiant and while
pronouncing the vows, she said very clearly: " until death"...
After Holy Communion, there followed a moment of silence and
she seemed very happy and satisfied. She thanked Mother
General, her Superiors and Priests who assisted her with
prayers and kindness. She continually said: "few hours more...
Jesus take me...soon I will be at home..."
She was fortunate to die in the Jubilee year. As usual she
recited the Rosary and singing a Marian hymn stopped
breathing at 22.00 p.m. It was on 6 May 1991. R.I.P.
Sr. M. Therese - Juliana D'Souza
24 February 1933 - 24 July 1990
Sr.M.Therese was born of pious parents on 24 February 1933
at Mulki, Mangalore. From the cradle onwards she had a radiant
smile.
Her postulancy and novitiate were remarkable. The young
novice dedicated her talents, time and energy fully to the service of
God. She did not spared herself rather, she worked with fervour and
joy to fulfil the project of God in her life. She followed Jesus with a
tender expression and never refusing any sacrifice, counting no cost,
but ever promoting his honour and glory.
In 1958 Sr.Therese pronounced the perpetual vows and
developed all the talents with ardent service with a sense of
responsibility, working very late in the night so as to complete sewing
habits for Sisters as well as vestments for the diocesan priests.
In 1964 Sr.Therese was nominated assistant of the new
Superior of Marikunnu. In 1973 she assumed the responsibility of the
community with ardour and zeal. In fact she loved and took care of
the poor.
In 1981 Mother Therese was transferred to Puttur to guide the
new foundation. This was not an easy task but placing all her trust in
the Lord she marched forward with courage.
In 1986 she returned to Marikunnu and continued her role as
Superior by guiding the young souls to the Lord and to holiness. The
Lord looked at his servant with love and comprehension. The call
came all of a sudden and without warning in the early hours of 24 July
1990 after the solemn celebration of the transit to heaven of
St.Bridget. After midnight Mother Therese called the Sisters and
spoke very clearly. She asked pardon of them all and at 1.10 am she
joined her hands, looked above.... and closed her eyes as if in sleep.
She was prepared to meet Jesus. Later the Doctor declared that she
had had a heart attack.
May the good God grand her eternal reward by receiving her
soul into his kingdom for all that she performed in life. R.I.P.
Sr. M. Benigna - Agnes Furtado
6 April 1931 - 25 June 1992
Agnes was an only child and she was born on 6.4.1931 at
Mulki, Mangalore. In 1952 she entered the new foundation at
Marikunnu. Sr.Benigna had always been a flower who
concealed the perfume of her virtues.
In 1960 she was transferred to Bangalore. In 1978
considering her good character and mild maternal expression,
made Superior in the community at Puttur. In 1981 she
returned to Bangalore where she placed all her tailoring talents
and experience at the disposal of the community.
She suffered from cancer and this was under medical
control but she was often tried in many ways due to this illness.
Knowing well the seriousness of her disease, she was ever
serene and with a smile would say: "now I am fine". She had to
have insulin, daily but her arm became an open wound due to
the injections.
She was ever at the service of the community so much
so, that she forgot her needful rest. Always serving, the
community remembers her with gratitude and still more her
kind words and silent service.
Cardinal Lourduswamy was her spiritual brother. On 25
June she looked well but at midday she entered the room and
exclaimed in a loud voice: "Mamma Mary,... help".. Immediately
she was taken to the hospital and while speaking closed her
eyes all of a sudden.
She had began a letter to her mother who lives alone,
telling her not to worry about anything because the Lord sees
to everything.
She encouraged the young sisters above all through her
example of a life of love for the Order. R.I.P.
Sr. M. Ignatia - Elize Pinto
10 February 1915 - 7 March 1988
“Light endless light darkness has room no more!”
Elize Pinto was born of Sebastian and Sabina on 10
February 1915 in Mangalore and was caught up in endless
light on 7 March 1988, in the Marian year.
Young Elize joined the Bridgettine Order on 25 May
1937 and she was one of the first candidates in Marikunnu.
She took the name in religion of Sr. Ignatia and she made
her perpetual Vows on 16 November 1943. She was
transferred to the new foundation at Bangalore in 1959
where she placed all her gifts and talents of charity, sincerity,
prayer and punctual Adoration hours at the service of the
Community. She suffered a lot due to diabetes and was
bedridden for 3 months and died like Jesus at 3.00 p.m. on 7
March 1988 at Bangalore.
As, was said above, her virtues flourished especially of
humility, simplicity and obedience in Marikunnu and
Bangalore Communities.
The first Mother Francesca could count on her fidelity
from the beginning. She worked hard in the kitchen with
great care and dedication. So she treated the sisters as well
as the guests. For herself a diet of no salt no sugar was a
severe test but she endured it without complaint.
She manifested her respect of the Superiors,
attachment to the Order and admiration of the Servant of
God Mother Elisabeth. She loved animals saying: we have
heaven after death but animals don’t.
According to the motto of her Patron Saint she too
performed every act for the glory of God and now she
intercedes for us in heaven. R.I.P.
Sr. M. Laetitia - Theresine Ithyparambil
12 August 1921 - 15 December 1986
“Light endless light, darkness has room no more.” with this radiant
axiom, we catch a glimpse of the earthly sojourn of Sr. Laetitia
Ithyparambil.
She was born on 12th August 1921 in Cochin, Kerala, in the
bosom of a good and pious catholic family. She entered religious life
at Marikunnu in 1947 and pronounced her first Vows in 1949. Her
final commitment was in 1952. She was a pioneer in the new
foundation at Bangalore in 1960 in the first difficult years she
specially proved to be a useful valiant member. She observed a
genuine community life which she manifested by fidelity to the duties
assigned to her. At the door and to visitors, her prompt and punctual
service was impressionable. Fidelity to a life of prayer and Adoration
was admirable; and she had ample chance of apostolate to the poor
in her capacity as portress. She was exceptionally neat and orderly
and took an interest in the belongings of the house. She was of
substantial aid to the warden in the hostel and saw that the needs of
the girls were met.
After having enjoyed good health for a long time she fell prey to
recurring attacks of fever and cough which worsened inspite of good
medical care. It was evident that perhaps a return to her home town
would bring relief. At the Doctor’s repeated suggestion it was
decided in 1986 to transfer her to the dry climate of Trivandrum. The
idea of shifting naturally caused Sr. Laetitia deep suffering, but she
accepted it and found her strength in the imitation of Christ, which
says, “the life of a good sister is a Cross”.
At Trivandrum as expected, the climate brought her relief and
provided new opportunities of joy and labour, In early December,
again a ravaging fever weakened her. Armed with good-will she
seemed to be herself again. All of a sudden she complained of
severe breathlessness, immediately taken to hospital. They had no
yet reached the hospital when she had a massive heart attack, in the
vehicle itself. Invoking the Holy name of Jesus, she surrendered her
soul to God. It was on 15th December 1986 that our sister attained
the endless bliss with Jesus! R.I.P.
Sr. M. Paolina - Paolina Martiz
18 August 1948 - 23 August 1985
An Indian, was born at Sidapur, in Mysore diocese on 18 August
1948 and was baptised on 22nd of the same month.
She entered the Bridgettine Order on 11 January 1970 in the
Convent at Marikunnu, in India.
In the above mentioned Convent she spent her formation years
until she made her First Profession on 30 November 1972 and after
that she was transferred to Lugano, where she made her Final
Profession on 8 December 1977.
In the various transfers she was always docile and obedient to
the will of the Superiors. In 1980 she was sent to Mexico City. She
was one of the first Indians who was sent to Mexico to help the young
community there, and she remained here until her untimely death on
23 August 1985, leaving the whole Order in great sorrow at such a
sudden death. She was hospitalised for different tests for a period of
15 days. She was treated for typhoid and had to undergo other tests;
but all of a sudden she became very ill. The Order remembers Sr.
Paolina as a good sister, humble, simple and industrious. She spread
around her the great joy of hersmiling face, very seldom was she
seen to be sad. We consider her as our guardian angel who
intercedes to God so that the toil and apostolate of our sisters in
Mexico may produce abundant fruits of sanctity and salvation for our
Mexican brethren.
She was loved and esteemed by many of those who knew
personally and they have a very fond memory of her. Sr. Paolina was
a missionary who fell in the field. She was very active and precise in
her duties. She knew the art of embroidery so well and she showed
great skill in doing it; she loved to embroider the image of Madonna.
Each of our houses in Mexico keeps one of her Madonnas in
rememberance of her. She used to say: “each time I embroider the
face of the Virgin, I implore her to grant me a grace; I know she smiles
at me.”
In Mexico she fulfilled her duty as the second counsellor and
she was also the “sister in charge” of the juniors. R.I.P.
Sr. M. Candida - Rosa Manjulamalayil
11 April 1931 - 19 November 1984
An Indian, was born in Kuravilangad, Diocese of Palai on
11 April 1931.
She entered the Order in the Convent at Marikunnu on 21
January 1951. She started her Novitiate on 3 February 1952 and
made her First Profession on 4 February 1953. Her Final
Profession was also in the Convent at Marikunnu on 4 February
1956.
Her short existence can be reduced to a song of praise
coupled with good works. She gathered all her sisters in the
warmth of her charity and love. The love which she poured out to
the poor was so great that they considered her as their mother.
Sr. Candida very soon began to experience pain and
suffering. For five long years she carried the cross of her terrible
illness - cancer - with love and patience. She lived in the hope of
finding a cure through the intercession of Mother Elisabeth. This
joyful trust joined with her will - power kept her going.
Foreseeing her approaching death she expressed the
desire to see the sisters for the last time. She was conscious to
the last moment of her existence and she met death with full
consciousness saying the words, “Into your hands Lord, I
commend my spirit.” (She slept in the Lord on 19 November
1984.)
Dear Sr. Candida, through your example of suffering, also
teach us, how to listen to the voice of the Lord who says, “Behold
I stand at the door and knock.”
Teach us to meet the Lord, ready as you were; now we
pray asking you, to intercede for us to the Lord. R.I.P.
Sr. M. Alphonsa - Alesua Mangalath
29 June 1934 - 9 March 1984
An Indian, was born in Arkuzhy in the diocese of
Ernakulam on 2nd June 1934.
She entered the Order on 23rd July 1959 in the Convent
at Marikunnu where she made her First Profession of
Temporary Vows on 4May1961 and her Profession of
Perpetual vows was pronounced in Bangalore on 4 May 1964.
During the time of her Novitiate she had a bad fall and
fractured her back-bone which caused her much suffering all
through her life. In fact she had to undergo many operations
and had to endure the torture of plaster for a long time.
She knew very well how to suffer and offer everything
with great spirit of sacrifice and always with a smile on her lips.
Her childlike simplicity won all hearts. She was singled
out for her love of duty and of responsibility.
For many years she carried out the office of protress and
in this task she showed overwhelming charity and kindness not
only towards the poor, but also towards visitors and guests of
the convent.
Her characteristic virtues were fidelity, loyalty and
genuine love towards all her superiors.
She gave authentically evidence of generosity and self-
sacrifice by always rendering herself available for the service to
the sisters and to the Community.
She spent the greater part of her religious life in the
convent at Bangalore where she left a dear and unforgettable
memory of herself. Her death occurred on 9 March 1984.
Dear Sr. Alphonsa, pray for us from heaven, so that we
also, may follow your example of fidelity to the Lord in the
religious life. R.I.P.
Sr. M. Barbara - Theresia Mulakara
2 October 1940 - 8 November 1983
She entered the Birgettine Order on 25 January 1962 in
the Convent at Marikunnu and she began her Novitiate on
2nd February 1963. Her First Profession was on 3rd
February 1964 and she made her Perpetual vows on 3rd
February 1967.
From the time of her entrance until her death on 8
November 1983, she always remained in the Convent at
Marikunnu, the community which she loved very much. Sr.
Barbara as a little child lost her mother. Her father for whom
she had great affection, brought her up.
Right from the beginning, her feeble health revealed
symptoms of an incurable, malady. Dr. Fasana diagnosed a
congenital enlargement of the heart. Very soon the dear
sister became seriously ill, in fact her already enlarged heart,
took frightful dimensions and she was forced to remain in
hospital.
Inspite of her sickness, the dear sister did not spare
herself; she tried her best to be useful to the Community in
every all possible way. She worked with energy and carried
out all her duties with utmost precision and perfection.
She knew very well how to endure and offer up her pain
- which was great - purifying herself for the good of the
Church and the Order; thus she was preparing herself to
meet her God and Saviour.
Dear Sr. Barbara, you who loved the religious life and
our Order so dearly, pray for us from heaven! R.I.P.
Sr. M. Philomena - Elizabeth Gonsalves
28 April 1906 - 29 January 1982
A better day dawned for our beloved Sr. M. Philomena, Indian, on
the 29 January at. 6 a.m. Heaven’s morning broke and stole away our
Treasure, at the ripe old age of 82. Her religions life opened on 3rd
October 1934 at Piazza Farnese, Rome, and closed at the Convent of
St. Birgitta in Bangalore.
Born in 1900 in Mangalore, she had a full life in the field of
schooling, educating, and as a Leader of girlaguides. At Calicut she met
the astounding lover of Jesus, Fr. Edward Beretta S.J. and fell under his
friendly influence. He led her to Rome together with three other Indian
postulants, all destined for the first Foundation in Marikunnu.
She received the religious habit on 25 March 1935 from our Ven.
Mother Elisabeth, and was transferred to the convent of Via delle Isole,
where the Novitiate for a group of Italian girls was canonically erected.
The fact of being far from her loved ones, caused her suffering,
but she overcame this with courage under the guidance of our saintly
Mother Elisabeth. Her virtues specially of child-like simplicity shone out
and her affectionate nature gave and received the warmest affection.
Punctuality in prayer and Community exercises was her singular virtue,
even to the end, as well as her deep attachment to her Superiors.
She made her First profession on 26 March 1936, and in 1937 she
returned to India, included in the first community of three Indians and
nine Europeans. At the Novitiate of the first House there, she was
Mistress of Novices. In a family spirit and a deep knowledge of culture
and custom of the place and person, she did a praiseworthy job. The
last 20 years of her life were spent in Bangalore where she was the
heart and soul of the Institution, as was striken on her day of death with
an uncommon grief. Loving and loved she was the joy of the Community
and the Juniors above all. Her wit was proverbial for which she endeared
herself to all. O lovely paradox! Seniormost yet youngest! Such was Sr.
Philomena. We believe she follows the Lamb wherever He goes and
prays for us. R.I.P.
Sr. M. Gertrude - Milly Pereira
20 August 1915 - 28 August 1980
Mother Gertrude, an Indian, was, born on 20 August 1915 at
Munkampuzha, Trivandum. She entered religion on 7 April 1945 at the
age of thirty, giving up her teaching career, to respond to God’s call to a
life of prayer and adoration of the Blessed Sacrament.
Strong and energetic and ever prompt, Mother Gertrude
contributed to the good of the community on every level. Soon after her
Profession of Perpetual Vows she was appointed assistant to the Novice
Mistress. In this office she revealed her abilities to govern, which she
proved later as Superior at Kalamassery from 1962 - 1971, and at
Bangalore as Delegate for the Houses in India from 1971 up to her
death. From 1973-1976, while she was Delegate, she held also the
office of Superior of the community at Bangalore.
In her office as Superior and Delegate, she literally put into
practice the words of St. Augustine in his Rule: “... admonish the unruly,
cheer the faint-hearted, support the weak and be patient towards all
(1Thess. 5:14)” (Rule No. 46). She did not spare herself and undertook
frequent and tiring journeys for the good of the Communities in India.
Her love for prayer which she never gave up even when work was
pressing, sustained her. One cannot fail to mention her unselfish and
generous contribution towards the opening of the seven foundations in
India after Marikunnu.
Her most outstanding virtue was forgiveness. She never held a
grudge but treated the sisters in a kind way never revealing the hurt she
felt in her heart. To this can be added her love for the poor manifested in
giving them food, clothing, money. Mother Gertrude was a genuine
mother who took interest in people impartially, whether rich or poor, and
was ever ready to help anyone in need.
Active during her life, she was active to the end. The disease
which took her to the grave manifested itself only a few days earlier and
she died on the operating table. Although she did not fully realise the
gravity of her illness, she had prepared herself to meet her Creator. She
has left us a large legacy of good example of persevering virtue and
generous self-dedication. R.I.P.
Sr. M. Clementina - Dorina Manzini
2 August 1901 - 3 June 1977
Sr. Clementina was born at Mandello del Lario (Como) on 2
August 1901.
She slept in the Lord at the convent in Pallavaram, Madras,
India, on 3 June 1977 after forty years of dedicated service to the
missionary Church; a service characterised by ardent love for
God and for the Indian people.
Her death was silent and sudden just as was her
apostolate, among the poor people to bring them help and
comfort.
The passing away of this Italian missionary - the last
European Bridgettine in India - has left a great void in the
community at Madras, but there remains a great heritage of love
and virtue, for which reason the sisters deem themselves
“blessed” to follow in her footsteps.
Sr. Clementina was simple and good. The spirit of prayer,
fidelity to the practice of vows, the sense of duty, humility and
above all, charity which gives and gives without counting and
without measure, shone in her. Only her angel, faithful
companion in the community life and in the works of mercy
carried out by her outside the convent, must have noted down
the number of sisters who received help and comfort from her,
and the number of poor people who benefitted by her kindness.
She entered religious life on 6 October 1935, made
profession of First Vows on 3 April 1937 and arrived in India on
27 April 1937 with the group of pioneers destined for that
mission, determined not to return to her homeland. She suffered
from nostalgia in consequence, but offered the sacrifice
generously and silently on the altar of the heart.
Now she rests in the land which she loved as her country of
adoption, while her beautiful soul shines in the light of the Lord
and intercedes for the missionary Church by imploring Him to
send generous and zealous labourers into His vineyard. R.I.P.
Sr. M. Annunciata - Mary Coelho
26 December 1915 - 28 April 1975
Sr. Annunciata, an Indian, was born at Mangalore on 26
December 1915.
She entered religious life on 31 May 1938, a year after the
foundation of the convent at Marikunnu, almost as if to fill the void
left in the community by Sr. M. Bridget Coelho, whose baptismal
name too was Mary, and who slept in the Lord the same year.
Simple and without pretension, she made herself very useful
in perplexities and work at the initial stages of the first foundation in
India. Having a nature sensitive to others’ suffering and a great and
generous heart, she always found a way to comfort, give joy and
help the needy.
In 1959 she was transferred to Bangalore, there too at the
beginning of the foundation, and accepted work and sacrifice with a
good spirit. She was 2nd Councillor of the Superior whom, seven
years later (1966), she followed to Pallavaram, Madras, the 4 th
foundation of the Order in India. She remained there for four years
collaborating generously to set a good basis for the new convent.
Finally, in 1969, she was given charge of the foundation at
Nachanahally, Mysore, where she had to begin from zero with a
great spirit of faith and trust in Divine providence. With a childlike
confidence in the Blessed Virgin who answered her “Memorare”
unfailingly, she faced and overcame all difficulties.
Her health was always delicate; to this was added heart
trouble which caused worry and the Superior General relived her
from office and transferred her to the convent in Bangalore, but it
was necessary to hospitalise her. She survived two heart attacks,
but the third was fatal. At 1.20 a.m. on 28 April she said to the
Superior who was praying by her bedside: “Mother, please say the
“Memorare”, and when the prayer to the Blessed Virgin was ended,
she whispered: “Sacred Heart of Jesus, I trust in Thee!” and
smiling, slept in the Lord. R.I.P.
Sr. M. Annette - Aleykutty Chirayil
18 October 1935 - 28 November 1970
Sr. Annette, an Indian from Kerala, was born on 18
October 1935 at Kuninji.
“A sister with delicate health, but good and charitable”. So
the community of Madras, to which she belonged before her
death, wrote of her.
She joined the convent at the age of twenty-four and
served the Lord for eleven years with admirable dedication.
The goodness and charity which distinguished her, make her
memory dear to all the sisters with whom she shared the duties
and joys of community life.
The sickness which cut short her life come in the form of
a common fever and hence it was believed that she could be
cured in the convent. But when it was seen that all treatment
was useless, the doctor advised that she be hospitalised. Here
too, after about a month, it became evident that human science
had no power over the Will of God which had marked the end
of a life still young, but obviously dear to him.
The doctor declared that her end was near and Sr.
Annette received the news with a uncommon tranquillity, and
replied: “I am ready!” and remained peaceful.
With her perfect self-abandonment and calm, smiling
face, she edified doctors and nurses. She was asked if she
desired to see her parents and she replied: “Don’t disturb them;
they are old!” proving in this way her total detachment and
delicate charity.
She was perfectly conscious till the last instant and died
peacefully, praying till the ultimate moment. It was the 28
November 1970. R.I.P.
Sr. M. Agostina - Teresa Natalina Benazzato
22 December 1909 - 25 January 1949
Sr. Agostina, an Italian, was born in Padua on 22 December 1909
and lived at Roè Volciano in the province of Brescia with her widowed
mother who was also an Ursuline sister, and who had offered to God
three sons and a daughter to the religions life. Father Edward Beretta
won Natalina over for the Bridgettine foundation in India and she arrived
at Piazza Farnese, Rome, on 25 March 1935 with the group of
postulants who would leave Italy in 1937 for that mission.
She was of a robust constitution but had a slight limp; with a
smiling countenance, simple by nature but attentive and solicitous. She
could appear “unpolished”, but on approaching her one became aware
of a transcendant delicacy and sentiment in her. Ardent and generous,
she made Love her vocation and as a novice had only one problem:
“How to make a perfect act of love” which she insistently put to the
Novice Mistress since in her spiritual life she did not have any other
difficulties to resolve. Father Beretta gave her an authoritative reply: “Do
you want to do it indeed? Well you have already done it”.
She left for India in April 1937 and in the new convent, in spite of
the abrupt change of climate and food and the difficulties inevitable at
the beginning, accepted and accomplished every kind of work, at times
even heavy. Then come the Second World War bringing with it the
difficult situation and the numerous privations liable to wear out the
strongest constitutions. Sr. Agostina did not resist for long; she
contracted a disease which in a short time spread all through her body
and isolated was confined to bed. She accepted it with her usual
generosity, suffered intensely and her bed became an altar on which
she sacrificed silently and calmly her still young life. She edified all in
suffering as she had done when active in the community life. The
following words which she told one of the sisters one day reveal another
aspect of her suffering: “St. Therese of the Child Jesus promised a
shower of roses from heaven; I will shower the most beautiful musical
notes to relieve the sadness of those who are obliged to live in solitude,”
The good and dear sister went to her reward on 25 January 1949. R.I.P.
Sr. M. Aloysia - Teresa C. Varappan
5 March 1918 - 27 August 1948
Sr. Aloysia, an Indian, was born at Mullassery, Travancore, on 5
March 1918. She was one of the first Indian postulants accepted in
the convent at Marikunnu. She entered the Order in July 1937 and
understood well the obligations of the religious life which she lived
intensely in all its stages. Simple, sincere, affectionate, she was
devoted to the Mother Foundress even without knowing her. On the
Superior of the convent and on every sister in the community she
lavished her devotion without sparing herself.
Being active, zealous and gifted with common sense, she was
given charge of the orphanage and other duties of responsibility which
she fulfilled with admirable exactness and fidelity to the Superior’s
orders. She was of great help to the foundation which had just
initiated in India and great hopes were placed in her for the future.
She was remarkable for her love of poverty and her care in
safeguarding purity in imitation of her patron St. Aloysius.
In the tenth year of her religious life she fell ill, apparently with
influenza, but had great discomfort in bed due to difficulty in
breathing. A medical examination showed the necessity to admit her
to hospital for an urgent operation to free her of a large tumour hidden
in her body. The good sister, however, had a premonition of her
approaching death. She spoke about it to the Superior and diposed
herself to accepting it in perfect conformity to God’s Holy Will.
After the operation came the collapse. Sr. Aloysia was
conscious till the last monent; humbly she reconciled herself with
God, the Superior and every member of the community; received the
Sacraments of the Church with great faith and devotion, promised
prayers and assistance from Heaven for the Order she loved and
which she had served faithfully and added: “Now I am ready, I can die
in peace”. And on 27 August 1948 she breathed her last after having
repeated thrice in her mother tongue: “My Jesus!” Now she rests in
peace in the convent cemetery, a seed in the earth which has already
given abundant fruits of good vocations. R.I.P.
Sr. M. Bridget - Mary Rasquinha
24 August 1916 - 27 March 1946
Here is a second Indian Bridget who, in a short space of
time, left Marikunnu for Heaven.
Sr. Bridget was born in Bangalore on 24 August 1916. She
was one of the first three postulants accepted in 1937 and who
made their perpetual vows on 17 June 1943 at the hands of
Mother Frances Lalli, Superior of the first Bridgettine foundation
in India. Quite soon Sr, Bridget manifested a promising vocation
with excellent qualities, ever ready to obey and always available
for the most havy work, In the kitchen she was a second Mary of
Nazareth, always kind and prompt to bestow the most delicate
attention on the sisters, In the laundry she sought for herself the
most heaviest linen. Her robust constitution and her way od
walking aroused humour and she too joined in the merriment.
She had a great devotion to the Holy Eucharist and the
Passion of Jesus - authentic sources of a holy life.
In 1943 her body showed signs of a sickness which offered
resistance to every treatment and which medical science did not
succeed in curing. With patience in suffering and filial
abandonment to God, she edified all those who took care of her
including the convent chaplain as well as the bishop of the
diocese.
After her death on 27 March 1946, there were those who
asked for favours through the intercession of the young sister,
and her brother attested that, having prayed by her grave, he
was cured of a disease which would have required a surgical
operation. Mother frances received many letters from people who
asked the sisters to implore her intercession for their spiritual and
temporal needs.
Let us also ask dear Sr.Bridget with faith to help us to
correspond with generosity and steadfast fidelity to the priceless
grace of the religious vocation. R.I.P.
Sr. M. Bridget - Mary Coelho
18 March 1913 - 2 January 1938
Sr. M.Bridget, Indian, was Born in Mangalore on 18 March
1913. On 4 October 1934 she joined the convent at Piazza
Farnese, Rome, which, then, was the house of formation. She was
guided by Rev. Father Edward Beretta S.J. together with three
other Indian postulants, all destined for the first foundation in India
at Marikunnu, Calicut.
She received the religious habit on 25 March 1935 and was
transferred to the convent in Via delle Isole, where the novitiate for
the formation of a group of young Italian girls preparing themselves
for the same foundation, was canonically erected. Very soon
Sr.Bridget manifested a deep love for prayer which rendered her
absorbed and contemplative. Her contemporaries still remember
her in the choir in deep contemplation at the foot of a great Crucifix
covered with bleeding wounds. And there she passed the rare free
moments of the day. Silent, docile to others’ opinion and prompt to
the call of obedience, one can say that she passed on tiptoe
without attracting attention or making demands on others.
She made her first profession of Temporary Vows on 26
March 1936. A year later she returned to India with the group of
sisters trained for that foundation, and at Marikunnu contracted the
illness which, in a short time, took her to the grave. She became
aware of the symptoms of her disease in an increasing weakness
which reached such a point that she wrote in her diary: “I am
useless, I cannot even hold the rosary in my hand to pray!” But the
nature of the disease and the serious condition of the sister were
understood only when every treatment to save her life was
inefficacious.
Dear Sr.Bridget gave the community a shining example of
self-lessness, patience and abandonment to God. She passed
away serenely on 2 January 1938 offering the sacrifice of her
young life for the growth of the Order in India and to draw blessings
and graces on her dear comunity. R.I.P.
The Beginning