Kochi: Kerala’s spiritual heritage witnessed a historic moment as Mother Elishwa was officially declared Blessed by the Catholic Church. The solemn announcement took place at the Vallarpadam Basilica, where Cardinal Sebastian Francis of Penang, Malaysia representing Pope Leo proclaimed her beatification before tens of thousands of devoted faithful.
Following the declaration, the Vatican’s Apostolic Nuncio to India, Archbishop Dr. Leopoldo Girelli, conveyed a message on behalf of the Holy See, and Cardinal Oswald Gracias unveiled a statue honoring Mother Elishwa. The beatification comes 112 years after her passing, marking a long-awaited recognition of her life and virtues.
The Holy Synod had completed all formal procedures after Pope Leo acknowledged a miracle attributed to Mother Elishwa’s intercession. The official request for her beatification was submitted by Archbishop Dr. Joseph Kalathiparambil of Varappuzha.
Mother Elishwa, recognized as the first nun in Kerala and the founder of the Teresian Carmelite Congregation, was born on October 15, 1831, into the affluent Kapitan family of Cruz Mila Gras parish, Ochanthuruth, Varappuzha Vicariate. She was the eldest of eight children born to Thomman and Thanda. From an early age, she displayed profound spirituality, compassion for the poor, and devotion to prayer.
Her love for the Blessed Virgin Mary was lifelong; she adorned Mary’s image with flowers throughout her life, embodying Marian devotion in both her actions and teachings. In accordance with her parents’ wishes, she married Varith in 1847, and they had a daughter, Anna. Tragically, after a year and a half, Varith fell gravely ill and passed away, leaving Elishwa a widow. She chose not to remarry, instead dedicating herself to prayer, solitude, and service to the needy in her community.
Under the guidance of her spiritual mentor, Italian Carmelite priest Fr. Leopold O.C.D., Mother Elishwa’s longing for monastic life deepened. This inspired her to establish the first indigenous monastic community in Kerala the Discalced Carmelite Third Society on February 13, 1866. Her sister Thresia and daughter Anna joined her in this path of consecration.
Mother Elishwa’s vision extended beyond spiritual life. She pioneered initiatives for women’s empowerment in Kerala by founding schools, boarding houses, and orphanages for girls, laying the foundation for the region’s first convent school. Her dedication created new opportunities for education and social upliftment for women in her era.
On July 18, 1913, after a life devoted to God, prayer, and service, Mother Elishwa passed away, leaving a lasting legacy of faith, compassion, and empowerment. Today, her elevation as Blessed cements her place among the saints of the Church, inspiring generations to follow her path of devotion and service.