The Thrill of Following Jesus and Making Him Known
An interview with Sr Sheeba Thomas MSI, who has been a missionary in Brazil since her youth.
- Sr Sheeba, as a girl or as a young woman, what gripped you?
Growing up as a girl in Kalayanthani, near Thodupuzha, Kerala, I had no grand aspirations like becoming a doctor or teacher. Born into a lower middle-class family with limited opportunities, my father worked as a farmer while my mother was a housewife. In a family of four children, my parents, despite their own educational limitations, encouraged us to excel in our studies. My mother often motivated us by saying, “If you study well, your aunty will take you to Australia.” As a result, I focused on studying, playing, and assisting my parents in their daily tasks. I was an average student. I loved going to church even on weekdays with my younger brother as my constant companion.
I’m thankful to the sisters of our parish for instilling in me a deep love for Jesus and the Church. The Church services were never dull for me. The sisters, after Mass, would guide us children on living each day to make Jesus happy—helping at home, respecting elders, including others in play, and avoiding lies, bad words, and fights. Despite my enthusiasm, I often fell short but never gave up. A cherished memory is the “Cherupushpa Mission League” in our parish, encouraging acts of service, love, and renunciation. This ignited a missionary spirit in me, inspiring a desire to support missionaries through prayer and sacrifice.
To read the entire article, click Subscribe
