I am glad to share or recall my vocation story. I am Sr. Gracy from Tamil Nadu. I belong to the Sisters of Charity congregation, also known as Maria Bambina Sisters.
I am from a family of ten children, and I am the sixth child. When I was a little girl, I used to go to church regularly, especially on Sundays, because I was fascinated by the Missionaries of Charity (Sisters of Mother Teresa), who used to take catechism for us and also distribute sweets. I studied in the convent school run by the Coimbatore Presentation Sisters. At that age, I used to be very sensitive.
When I was in the IX class, I attended the vocation camp arranged by our diocese. There were many sisters from different congregations who spoke about their charism. I was attracted by the Sisters of Charity whose charism is: “Show forth the merciful love of the Redeemer through the works of mercy.” Their mission consisted mainly in the education of girls and caring for the poor girls who are in moral danger. I strongly felt that, if a girl is educated, the whole family will benefit. So, I gave my name to them and returned home.
After a month, a Sister from this congregation came to my home and spoke about their life and mission. They also fixed the date for me to go to the convent. I was happy, but my father was not. He did not allow me to join the convent. He tried to convince me to change my mind. So much so, that he made my uncle talk to me. My uncle spoke to me saying: “Why don’t you study now? Later you can marry and lead a happy life. You also can give a son to this world.” I replied saying, “Uncle, if I marry, I can be a mother of two or three children; but, if I become a sister, I can be a mother for so many children.” This answer puzzled my uncle. He told my father: “She is clear about her conviction.” So, my father gave me permission to go and join the convent.
Sr Gracy Antony SCCG
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