Major Archbishop and Catholicos Cardinal Baselios Cleemis on Sunday said Mother Eliswa, the first nun from Kerala, has found a place in the annals of history as a person who took initiatives to liberate women through education.
He was speaking at the valedictory ceremony of the death centenary observations of Servant of God Mother Eliswa at St. Philomena’s Church, Koonammavu. Cleemis said she became a revered personality through simple deeds of virtue.
“Her life from an ordinary woman to that of a servant of god is an ideal model for all, especially for those who lead a religious life. She served the Church and common people without any discrimination,” he said.
She was the first nun from Kerala and is said to have established the first convent in the state and the first school for girls. Archbishop Francis Kallarakkal presided over the function.
Archbishop of Thiruvananthapuram Soosa Pakiam was the chief celebrant at the Holy Mass. He also released a souvenir of Mother Eliswa. Soosa Pakiam said Mother Eliswa sacrificed everything to follow God’s wish. Union Minister of State for Consumer Affairs K V Thomas handed over the keys of centenary memorial houses to the owners. He said a stamp in the name of Mother Eliswa would be released soon. Public Works Minister V K Ebrahim Kunju released 11 books on Mother Eliswa published in connection with the death centenary. Congregation of Teresian Carmelites Diocese Mother Superior Lysa announced that its members would donate organs.