Mother Eliswa Vakayil, the foundress of the Congregation of the Teresian Carmelites (CTC), was honoured as Venerable by Pope Francis in November 2023. Born in 1846 in Kerala, Eliswa’s life was marked by deep spirituality and compassion for the poor. After her husband passed away two years after their daughter Anna was born, Eliswa dedicated her life to prayer and service. With support from Rev. Fr. Leopold Beccaro OCD and Archbishop Bernardine Baccinelli OCD, she, her daughter Anna, and her sister Thresia joined the Carmelite Order, establishing Kerala’s first order for consecrated women. Her recognition as Venerable highlights her faith, resilience, and pioneering role in advancing women’s causes.
Venerable Mother Eliswa: My Inspiration
As the foundress of my own congregation, I have always felt a deep connection to Venerable Mother Eliswa. Her very life, deep communion with Jesus, love for the poor, and ability to forgive without counting the cost have inspired me greatly. In today’s world, where the true spirit of religious life can sometimes get lost, her life reminds me of what is truly important. Mother Eliswa’s dedication and love for God and others continue to touch my heart and strengthen my own faith. Mother Eliswa faced many painful experiences as the foundress of the Congregation. On the evening of Tuesday, September 16, 1890, a significant leadership change occurred due to the division of Rites in the Archdiocese of Verapoly. All the sisters who were in leadership, including Mother Eliswa, the foundress, were unexpectedly removed from their positions and replaced by others. Despite the deeply humiliating circumstances, Mother Eliswa chose to transcend human sentiments and responded with spiritual maturity. With quiet dignity and unwavering faith, she and her companions shifted to a small house on the convent campus the next morning, placing their future entirely in God’s hands.
SR ASHITA CTC
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