Kochi: The Congregation for the Causes of Saints has announced that the beatification of Mother Elyshva, the first indigenous nun in Kerala and founder of the indigenous Carmelite Third Order (T.O.C.D.), will take place on November 8, 2025, at the Vallarpadam Basilica in Kochi. The ceremony is scheduled to begin at 4:30 PM IST.
Cardinal Dr. Sebastian Francis, the Bishop of Penang, Malaysia, will preside over the solemn Eucharistic celebration during which the beatification will occur. The event will also be attended by Archbishop Dr. Leopold Jirelli, the Apostolic Nuncio to India; Archbishop Dr. Joseph Kalathiparambil of the Archdiocese of Varapuzha; Father Miguel Marques Calé, the General Superior of the Carmelite Order; and Father Marco Chiesa, the Postulator General in Rome. Other bishops and clergy from India and abroad are also expected to participate.
Mother Elyshva was declared a Servant of God in March 2008 and was beatified as Venerable by Pope Francis on November 8, 2023. Her beatification was confirmed following the Vatican's recognition of a medically and theologically approved miracle attributed to her intercession.
Born on October 15, 1831, in the affluent Captain family of Ochanthuruth in the Varapuzha vicariate, Elyshva was the eldest of eight children. From a young age, she exhibited deep spirituality and compassion for the poor and marginalized. A devout devotee of the Blessed Virgin Mary, she dedicated her life to prayer and service. After the death of her first husband, she chose to remain single, finding solace in solitude, prayer, and aiding the needy.
Under the spiritual guidance of Father Leopold O.C.D., an Italian Carmelite missionary, she was inspired to establish the indigenous Carmelite Third Order, the first indigenous women's religious congregation in Kerala. On February 13, 1866, she founded the congregation, which focused on education and empowerment for women. She established the first convent school, boarding house, and orphanage for girls in Kerala, significantly contributing to the women's renaissance in the region.
Mother Elyshva passed away on July 18, 1913, leaving behind a legacy of faith, service, and empowerment. Her beatification is a testament to her enduring impact on the Church and society.
The beatification ceremony at Vallarpadam Basilica is expected to draw thousands of devotees and pilgrims from across Kerala and beyond, marking a significant milestone in the history of the Church in India.