“A Journey of Faith, Service, and Joy”

The Sisters of Our Lady of the Missions rejoiced on the joyous occasion of the Diamond Jubilee of Sr. Mary Thomas and the Silver Jubilee of Sr. Suja Sebastian, celebrated on September 27, 2025.

The solemn Eucharistic celebration was presided over by His Grace, Elias Frank, Archbishop of Calcutta, together with seventeen priests who graced the altar with their presence and prayers. The participation of Fr. George Sebastian, Sr. Suja’s brother, added more joy to the occasion.

It was also a privilege to warmly welcome the newly appointed Archbishop of Calcutta, Most Rev. Elias Frank. We felt deeply honoured by his gracious presence and leadership. The gathering of our RNDM Sisters from the North East and South Provinces added richness, vibrancy, and joy to the celebration, making it a true family gathering of oneness in mission. The heartfelt singing, symbolic gestures, and deep moments of prayer created a spirit of unity and thanksgiving.

In his homily, Archbishop Elias Frank offered words of encouragement and inspiration, reflecting on the beauty and richness of religious life. He reminded all present that a life dedicated to God is also a life dedicated to the service of humankind, touching lives, offering hope, and bringing about meaningful change through simple acts of compassion, guidance, and love. “It is not what we have done, but what God has done for us,” he emphasized.

We were especially grateful for the presence of Sr. Suja’s family members, who travelled from Kerala, beautifully bridging familial love with spiritual commitment. The life profiles of Sr. Mary Thomas and Sr. Suja Sebastian remind us that true religious life is lived in prayer and in service to humanity. Through their compassion, dedication, and daily acts of love, they have touched countless lives, inspired faith communities, and shown that even small gestures can create profound change and make a difference.

After the Eucharist, a brief felicitation program followed, words of appreciation, tokens of love, and joyful expressions through dances and songs filled the atmosphere with gratitude and festivity.

The jubilee celebration stood as a testimony to God’s faithfulness, a heartfelt gratitude for the gift of consecrated life and a moment of inspiration for all present to continue walking joyfully in mission following in the footsteps of our Foundress, Euphrasie Barbier. The celebration was concluded with a fellowship meal.                    

Sr. C. Sun RNDM

 

Sisters of Our Lady of the Missions - Casa Generalizia Roma 00164 (IT) - Phone: 0039 06 6615 8400 - Email: gensec@rndmgen.org