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Kerala Nun's Beatification Marks Milestone for Women's Empowerment
11 Nov
Summary
- Mother Eliswa beatified, one step from sainthood
- Founded first women's religious order in Kerala
- Empowered women through education and caregiving
On November 8, 2025, Mother Eliswa, the nun who founded the first women's religious order in the history of the Catholic church in Kerala, was beatified at a ceremony in Kochi. The declaration, made 112 years after her death, puts her just one step away from sainthood.
Mother Eliswa, the founder of the Third Order of the Discalced Carmelites (TOCD), was declared 'Blessed' by Cardinal Sebastian Francis, representing Pope Leo XIV. The beatification was followed by the unveiling of Mother Eliswa's statue, and her relics were placed at the church.
Cardinal Francis praised Mother Eliswa's "holy, courageous and steadfast life of faith and love," stating that it would continue to inspire generations of believers. He highlighted her empowerment of women, founding of the first indigenous women's religious order in India, and her focus on the education of women and the less privileged.
Mother Eliswa's journey was extraordinary and inspiring. Starting a convent for women was unimaginable in the 19th century, but she made it happen with her determination, paving the way for women's entry into public and religious life and education in Kerala.
