Is Kerala's Mother Eliswa Vakayil the Next Saint?
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Synopsis
In a remarkable ceremony, Mother Eliswa Vakayil was beatified, a significant step towards sainthood. This event not only honors her legacy but also inspires future generations, bridging faith and social service in Kerala's Catholic community. Discover the profound impact of her life and the journey to her beatification.
Key Takeaways
- Mother Eliswa Vakayil was beatified on November 8, 2023.
- She founded the first indigenous Carmelite convent for women in Kerala.
- Her beatification is a significant step towards sainthood.
- She played a vital role in bridging Latin and Syrian rites in the Church.
- Her legacy continues to inspire women in faith and service.
Ernakulam, Nov 8 (IANS) In a historic and profoundly spiritual occasion for Kerala's Catholic community, Eliswa of the Blessed Virgin Mary -- affectionately known as Mother Eliswa Vakayil -- was officially beatified on Saturday during a solemn ceremony at the National Shrine Basilica of Our Lady of Ransom in Vallarpadam.
This beatification represents a significant milestone on the path to sainthood for the nun who significantly influenced women's religious life in Kerala over 150 years ago.
The ceremony was graced by thousands of devotees, clergy members, and representatives from various religious orders, including a delegate from the Pope.
Born on October 15, 1831, in Ochanthuruth, Ernakulam, Eliswa Vakayil (religious name Eliswa of the Blessed Virgin Mary) established the first indigenous Carmelite convent for women in 1866, which ultimately led to the formation of two prominent congregations -- the Congregation of the Mother of Carmel (CMC) under the Syro-Malabar rite and the Congregation of the Teresian Carmelites (CTC) under the Latin rite.
After becoming a widow at the age of 20, she dedicated her life to prayer and service, leading a simple existence characterized by compassion and spiritual depth.
Under the guidance of Italian missionary Leopold Beccaro, she and her companions -- her daughter Anna and sister Thresia -- initiated their religious community in a modest bamboo hut at Koonammavu.
Mother Eliswa's groundbreaking contributions marked a pivotal moment for women's religious life in India, creating new pathways for education and social outreach within the Church.
Her inclusive approach connected the Latin and Syrian rites during a time when such collaborations were rare.
She passed away on July 18, 1913, and was interred at St. Joseph's Convent in Varapuzha, where her tomb has since become a pilgrimage site.
The canonization process for her began in 2008.
Pope Francis recognized her as Venerable in 2023, acknowledging her heroic virtues.
Following this, the Pope approved a miracle attributed to her intercession, clearing the way for her beatification.
Mother Eliswa's life of profound faith and quiet service continues to inspire countless women.
Her personal motto, 'God alone suffices', remains central to the lasting legacy she established over a century ago.
Point of View
It's crucial to recognize the importance of Mother Eliswa's beatification within the broader context of India's spiritual landscape. Her contributions to women's religious life not only transformed the Church in Kerala but also set a precedent for future generations, emphasizing the need for inclusivity and service in faith communities nationwide.
NationPress
08/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Mother Eliswa Vakayil?
Mother Eliswa Vakayil, born Eliswa of the Blessed Virgin Mary, was a nun who founded the first indigenous Carmelite convent for women in Kerala. She dedicated her life to prayer and service and was beatified on November 8, 2023.
What is beatification?
Beatification is a recognition by the Catholic Church that a deceased person lived a heroic life of virtue and is in heaven, allowing for public veneration.
What impact did Mother Eliswa have on women's religious life?
Mother Eliswa was a pioneer in women's religious life, founding congregations that provided education and social services, and bridging the gap between different rites within the Church.
When did the canonization process for Mother Eliswa begin?
The canonization process for Mother Eliswa began in 2008, and she was declared Venerable by Pope Francis in 2023.
What was Mother Eliswa's motto?
Her personal motto was 'God alone suffices,' reflecting her deep faith and commitment to service.
