Is Kerala's Mother Eliswa Vakayil Now Declared 'Blessed' at Vallarpadam Basilica?
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Synopsis
In a historic moment for Kerala's Catholic community, Mother Eliswa Vakayil was declared blessed, marking a significant step toward her sainthood. This event celebrates her legacy and contributions to women's religious life in India.
Key Takeaways
- Mother Eliswa Vakayil was declared blessed, marking a significant step towards sainthood.
- She founded the first indigenous Carmelite convent for women in Kerala.
- Her life was dedicated to prayer and service after becoming a widow.
- She played a pivotal role in bridging Latin and Syrian rites.
- Her legacy continues to inspire generations of women.
Ernakulam, Nov 8 (IANS) In a momentous and spiritually significant occasion for the Catholic community of Kerala, Eliswa of the Blessed Virgin Mary -- affectionately known as Mother Eliswa Vakayil -- was officially recognized as blessed on Saturday during a solemn ceremony at the National Shrine Basilica of Our Lady of Ransom in Vallarpadam.
This beatification represents a pivotal advancement towards sainthood for the nun who was a trailblazer in women's religious life in Kerala over 150 years ago.
The ceremony saw the participation of thousands of devotees, religious leaders, 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 eventually led to the formation of two significant 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, embracing a lifestyle defined by compassion and profound spirituality.
Under the guidance of Italian missionary Leopold Beccaro, she and her companions, including her daughter Anna and sister Thresia, initiated their religious community in a modest bamboo hut at Koonammavu.
Mother Eliswa's groundbreaking contributions significantly transformed women's religious life in India, fostering new avenues for education and social service within the Church.
Her inclusive approach united the Latin and Syrian rites during a period when such collaboration was uncommon.
She passed away on July 18, 1913, and was interred at St. Joseph's Convent in Varapuzha, where her tomb has 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, a miracle attributed to her intercession was approved by the Pope, facilitating her beatification.
Mother Eliswa's life of unwavering faith and humble service continues to motivate countless women.
Her personal motto, "God alone suffices", remains a cornerstone of the enduring legacy she established over a century ago.
Point of View
We recognize the significance of Mother Eliswa Vakayil's beatification for the Catholic community and women's empowerment in India. This historic event not only honors her individual contributions but also highlights the broader impact of women's roles in religious and social spheres. It is a testament to the evolving narrative of faith and service in our nation.
NationPress
09/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Mother Eliswa Vakayil?
Mother Eliswa Vakayil, also known as Eliswa of the Blessed Virgin Mary, was a nun who founded the first indigenous Carmelite convent for women in Kerala over 150 years ago.
When was Mother Eliswa Vakayil declared blessed?
She was formally declared blessed on November 8, 2023, during a ceremony at the National Shrine Basilica of Our Lady of Ransom in Vallarpadam.
What contributions did Mother Eliswa make?
She pioneered women's religious life in Kerala and established two significant congregations: the Congregation of the Mother of Carmel (CMC) and the Congregation of the Teresian Carmelites (CTC).
What is the significance of her beatification?
Her beatification marks a crucial step toward sainthood and acknowledges her heroic virtues and lifelong service to the Church.
What was Mother Eliswa's motto?
Her personal motto was 'God alone suffices,' which continues to inspire many to this day.
