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Accept all that he permits

“Each passing second, every unfolding event, and all the processes of life quietly shape our growth and broaden the horizons of our destiny.

“There is a purpose for everything.” In this spirit, Mary of the Passion accepted all things for the sake of Christ, surrendering everything into the hands of God. She believed firmly that there is no glory without suffering in life. Her journey was marked by trials, yet she embraced them with courage and unwavering faith, trusting that God was guiding her mission.

Her confidence in God is beautifully reflected in her words:
“We must abandon ourselves completely to God’s will, ready to accept all that He permits.”

Through her mission and sacrifices, she showed that true faith means total trust — allowing God to lead, even through suffering, knowing that His purpose unfolds in love.

Each missionary should have the same spirit and complete trust in God, accepting His will with faith and obedience. As we continue this journey and step into the 150th year since our foundation day, may we move forward toward our destiny under God’s guidance, embracing whatever He permits with courage and hope.

Hilda Mary Bernath fmm

Peru (South America)

Love never ends

Every person creates a unique place in history through the struggles of their time and the gift of their uniqueness.
I, too, have created a history simply by being here for seven years.

“I am consecrated to God; my end is Love.”
— Mary of the Passion

With love, I can act sincerely.
With love, I can remain faithful in every situation.
With love, I can sacrifice myself.
With love, I can be honest.
With love, I can live simply on my life’s journey.
With love, I can continue forward with courage.
With love, I can dedicate my service to others.
With love, I can do my very best to hasten the work of Love.

For Love is like Jesus — and Jesus is Love.

Hilda Mary Bernath fmm

Peru (south America)

With Every Cut I am Pruned and Shaped

With joy and gratitude welling up from my heart, I recall Blessed Mary of the Passion, whose faith, courage, conviction, silent suffering, her hope in divine providence, her humility and simplicity, to approach the Superior General Fr. Bernardino, whose guidance led her to Fr. Raphael OFM, who in turn with his strict vigilant guidance, led us all to this day, shaping us through the prompt, strict principles Mary of the Passion received from him.

When I spend time to read the life of Blessed Mary of the Passion, often I wonder why the Good Lord brought her all the way to India, to the down south Tiruchirapally and Tuticorin, to get captivated by the simple love, admiration and dedication of the people of Tuticorin and Adaikalapuram.

God’s loving and pruning ways are beyond our grasp! Through every touch and stroke the Artist can bring in new life and a new shape, new colour to the painting that He has begun to express, that is unique and original of His masterpiece. God’s ways are not our ways – His thoughts are much higher above our thoughts.

When the Lord begins to shape a human life in a way that is surprising, full of purpose, oriented and inspiring, how uniquely He has carved me and shaped me after His will. When my classmates were more attractive, intelligent, daring and courageous, the Lord chose me from the school/college of 2500 pupils. After choosing and leading me to a different setup, He began to shape me by pruning.

What a unique and impressive experiences He brought into my life, through the guidance of the Provincials both in Chennai and Ooty, and the formators at different stages – Pre-Novice mistress, Novice mistress, and Junior mistress.

The metaphor of pruning has a world of meaning. Just as the gardener cuts away the branches, not to destroy the plant, but to help it bear more fruit, so too God gently and persistently trims away parts of our life that hinder growth. He removes the thoughts that are not helpful for our growth, the distractions, friendships, the overgrowth of ego, so that our lives may become more aligned with His plans.

God has pruned my way of thinking. He purified and cleansed the intentions of my life, my scattered thoughts, ambitions of the world, personal desires for a dashing life, etc. God wants our intentions to be His intention, so that what we long for is no longer for self-glorification but obedience to His will. With changed convictions, I could ask, “Lord, what do You want me to be?”

When our heart is open to His ways, He turns to our hearts and prunes our affections, so that our hearts may be wholly turned to Him.

He gently guides us away from attachments to people, places, possessions, ministries, and desire for success that pull us away from God. In the course of His pruning, we begin to desire what He desires. God prunes our whole being – our will, memory, understanding, our dreams, and aspirations.

This pruning is revealed to us through challenges, loss, or inner restlessness. But always it is aimed at making us more free – free for the Lord. Free to love, free to serve, free to follow Him wherever He leads.

Me and each of us!!

Sr. Karuna Vincent, FMM

Sr. Karuna Vincent hails from Tiruchirapalli Cantonment, a place graced by the presence of Blessed Mary of the Passion. She comes from a family of Brahmin converts, inspired by Jesuit missionaries in Trichy.

She joined the Franciscan Missionaries of Mary (FMM) in 1973 and completed her formation in Coimbatore and Bangalore. She has served extensively in the Andhra-Mumbai Province (now Assunta Region).

With rich experience in education, Sr. Karuna has worked as a librarian, teacher, Principal, and Superior in several institutions, including Maris Stella College, St. Clare Convent High School, Villa Theresa High School, Sacred Heart High School, and Rosary Convent High School. She also served postgraduate students and later worked in Goa as Headmistress and Superior.

She is deeply committed to guiding students through education, personal care, and prayer.

ST. DOMINIC’S ANGLO-INDIAN HR.SEC.SCHOOL, ST. THOMAS MOUNT, CHENNAI – 16.

The dream of our Mother Foundress, Blessed Mary of the Passion, turned into reality and has reached its 125th milestone. On Tuesday, 10th February 2026., St. Dominic’s Anglo-Indian Higher Secondary School celebrated a historic milestone—its Quasquicentennial Jubilee, commemorating 125 glorious years of excellence in education. The grand celebration, themed “Through Time’s Tapestry… A Legacy Unfolds!”, reflected a remarkable journey woven with dedication and God’s abundant grace.

This momentous occasion was greatly honoured by the esteemed presence of the Chief Guest, Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi, Honourable Minister for School Education, Tamil Nadu. The other distinguished guests were our Regional Superior – St. Joseph Region Rev. Sr. Maria Selvi, the Director of school Education – Dr. Kannappan, the Chief Educational Officer –Mrs. Thiruvalarselvi and Alandur Councillor Mrs. Brindhaa Shree (ALUMNA) adorned the dais.

The Chief guest, Mr. Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi, expressed his respectful appreciation for the FMM sisters, who serve humanity in the fields of education and social services. He added, but for Christian missionaries, like the FMMs, education would not have reached all strata of society. He also shared words of wisdom and inspiration urging the students to dream big and chase their passions with unwavering resolve.

The Principal, Rev. Sr. Lawrentia, extended a gracious welcome and felicitated the dignitaries, expressing gratitude for their presence and unwavering support. The release of the commemorative Souvenir marked a significant highlight, capturing the rich history, cherished memories, milestones, and achievements of 125 years.

The cultural programme unfolded as a vibrant tapestry of talent and creativity. The Welcome Dance set an energetic tone, followed by melodious renditions including the Prayer Song and the special Jubilee Song. The Annual Report proudly presented the academic accomplishments and co-curricular triumphs of the institution, reflecting holistic growth and excellence. The audience was captivated by a variety of dynamic performances. The junior students enchanted everyone with Kalaikalanjiyam, a delightful folk dance, while the kindergarten children stole hearts with their charming presentation of Jungle Safari. The rhythmic beats of Drummers’ Delight electrified the atmosphere. The English play Pygmalion showcased dramatic brilliance and linguistic finesse, while the Tamil play Sengol Vazhuvaamal Senthamizh Vendhan celebrated cultural pride and heritage. Contemporary performances such as Mini Moves Magic, Fearless Femme, and the grand finale Fusion Fiesta added colour, energy, and youthful vibrance to the evening. The highlight day was the theme dance debited schools humble beginning to its glorious presences today. With more than 1000 participants, the atmosphere was filled with laughter, applause and pride as the parents witnessed their wards bringing out their best.

With gratitude for the glorious past and hope for a brighter tomorrow, the institution continued to move forward— committed to shaping young minds, strengthening values, and unfolding an even greater legacy in the years to come.

Long live St. Dominic’s! May her legacy of excellence continue for generations to come!

I couldn’t manage through attachment

Christmas becomes brighter when shared with everyone

Each time you come to collect your rations individually; you may be wondering why we have gathered you
all together this time.
It is Christmas… as a community, we can meet you all and you too can meet, getting to know one another.
As Franciscan Missionaries of Mary, we are preparing to celebrate the 150 th year of our foundation in 2027.
During this time, we recall that our foundress Mary of the Passion had a special love for the poor with a
strong desire to improve their condition. Like St. Francis, she lived poor and always set aside something for
the poor. It is for this reason that we too want to reach out in a special way to improve the condition of
those who are needy. In your turn too, you could help those who need your concern and care, maybe not
materially but with a kind word, a smile, a greeting, etc. so that we can create a society which is concerned
for one another. As Pope Francis wrote in his letter to the world, we are all brothers and sisters in one large
human family, as we are all made in God’s image and likeness. Pope Leo continues the same reminder in his
recent letter ‘I have loved you’, stressing that the poor have a special place in the life of the Church. Let us
all then during this time of Christmas begin to create this large human family around us by living in love and
joy with all those around us!
God bless each one of you and your families. We remember you in our prayers especially during this
Season.
Joyous Christmas and a very Happy New Year 2026.

Our Lady of the Rosary Convent

Assunta Region

MARIS STELLA CONVENT, VIJAYAWADA22 nd November 2025

MARIS STELLA CONVENT, VIJAYAWADA 22 nd November 2025

“150 Years of FMM Presence – Celebrating with
the Vijayawada Municipal Corporation Workers”

In honour of the 150th year of the Jubilee Celebration of the Franciscan Missionaries of
Mary (FMM), the community at Maris Stella Convent, Vijayawada, joyfully welcomed the
city’s unsung heroes—the Municipal Corporation workers of Vijayawada. As a gesture of
deep appreciation for their tireless efforts in keeping the city clean, green, and vibrant, the
Sisters invited them to join in thanksgiving and fellowship.
On 22 November 2025, the college auditorium was filled with warmth and celebration as
nearly 100 municipality workers, both men and women, gathered for the occasion. The
beautifully prepared backdrop, titled “150 Years of FMM Presence – Celebrating with the
Vijayawada Municipal Corporation Workers”, set the tone for the event, creating an
atmosphere of joy, unity, and gratitude.

The Sisters extended a heartfelt welcome, greeting each guest with a warm smile and
gracious hospitality. Sr. Lavanya addressed the gathering, sharing the purpose of this
meaningful celebration. She highlighted the spirit and charism of the Franciscan Missionaries
of Mary, emphasizing our commitment to service, compassion, and social uplift. She also
outlined the various ministries through which the FMM community continues to contribute to
society. She acknowledged their crucial role in ensuring that the city of Vijayawada—and
particularly the surroundings of Maris Stella College—remains clean, orderly, and
welcoming. Their quiet, consistent labour, she noted, often goes unnoticed, yet it forms the
backbone of a healthy and dignified civic environment. Sisters of the community participated
in this programme and number of them expressed their profound appreciation for their
dedicated service of the municipality workers.

As a symbol of honour and respect, special guests were felicitated with saplings,
representing growth, life, and the shared responsibility of nurturing our common home. As a
token of love, gratitude, and sharing, a bedsheet was presented to each worker, followed by a
delicious lunch that all enjoyed together. They departed with hearts filled with joy and smiles
of genuine happiness. The event radiated a spirit of mutual gratitude, bridging hearts and
fostering a deeper sense of community. We had the joy and privilege of having Fr.Cedric
Prakash S.J and our Regional councillor Sr.Babitha with us on this great day.

The celebration not only commemorated 150 years of FMM presence but also reaffirmed the
congregation’s enduring mission: to recognize God’s presence in every person and to
celebrate the goodness that enriches our world.
“To love is to give everything, and to give oneself.” – Blessed Mary of the Passion

This line beautifully reflects the spirit of service, gratitude, and wholehearted giving
expressed during our celebration.

Empowering Lives at Nisarga – Helping a child Walk

Nisarga Organization is taken initiative dedicated to the wellbeing of people in harmony with
nature. We are working with women empowerment, education, environmental protection,
specially abled persons.
At Nisarga, we are committed to supporting specially abled persons by identifying
beneficiaries, assessing their needs, and maintaining proper records to ensure continuous and
effective assistance. Our efforts focus on enhancing the lives of individuals with physical
disabilities and helping them live more independently with dignity and confidence.

Our team actively engages in fieldwork, visiting families of specially abled individuals to
understand their specific challenges and provide the right support. This direct connection helps
us improve the overall quality of life for those we serve.

We are also honored to collaborate with Rise Bionics, a company that designs and manufactures
advanced assistive devices such as prosthetics and orthotics. Through this partnership, we have
extended greater opportunities for mobility and independence to beneficiaries of all ages and
backgrounds. We had camps twice in September and November 12 th and 13 th and distributed
sponsor digital assistance devices to help a child walk to 30 specially abled persons.
At Nisarga, our mission remains clear — to create a more inclusive, compassionate, and
sustainable society where every individual can thrive in harmony with nature.

Sr.Maria pinto
Nisarga

Free Medical Checkup Camp at Bhironda

A free medical check-up camp was successfully organized in honor of 150 years of our presence in the world by Our Lady of Grace Hospital, Bicholim, in collaboration with the Society of the Franciscan Sisters of Mary, Our Lady of Rosary Convent, Dona Paula, the Parish Fathers of Bhironda, and the Sangavi community. The camp aimed to promote preventive healthcare and provide essential medical services to the local population.

A total of 47 individuals benefited from the initiative. Various health screenings were conducted, including blood sugar testing, hemoglobin (Hb) checks, and vital signs assessment. Participants also received free medications according to their health conditions and medical needs.

This initiative created an opportunity for early detection of health issues and encouraged the community to take proactive steps toward maintaining their well-being. The organizers extended their gratitude to all healthcare staff, sisters, parish fathers, and volunteers for their dedicated service and teamwork.

Our Lady of Grace Hospital continues its mission of reaching out to the community with compassionate care and hopes to conduct more such health programs in the future, in collaboration with the Goa communities of Ribandar, Our Lady of Help Convent, Rosary Convent Dona Paula, and Our Lady of Grace Convent, Bicholim.

Sesquicentennial Jubilee Preparation: Hearts United in Prayer

Trilokpuri, Delhi: The walls of Disha Kendra in Trilokpuri resonated with prayers, laughter, and tears of joy as St. Francis Region of the Franciscan Missionaries of Mary embarked on a deeply moving spiritual journey to prepare for a historic milestone—the Sesquicentennial Jubilee of the Institute’s foundation. As part of this year-long journey, communities across the St. Francis Region were invited to prepare spiritually, beginning with Disha Kendra in Trilokpuri. From October 5^th to 30^th, 2025, the community opened its doors and hearts to pause, reflect, and renew their commitment to Christ’s mission.

Sacred Journey

Chosen as the first community for this spiritual pilgrimage, Disha Kendra welcomed the sacred relic of Mary of the Passion with reverence and joy. For 26 blessed days, the presence of “Mamma” and St. Francis became a source of comfort, inspiration, and renewed dedication for all who gathered. Each gathering was a tapestry of faith woven with threads of gratitude, hope, and fellowship. As diverse groups from across the Trilokpuri parish came together, something beautiful unfolded—strangers became friends, individual prayers merged into a chorus of collective hope, and the simple act of sharing meals became a profound expression of unity.

Every session began in sacred stillness, with hearts lifted in thanksgiving for God’s unwavering presence and protection through the years. Voices joined in prayer, seeking blessings for the journey ahead and for the continued mission of FMM. These prayers were heartfelt conversations with the Divine, filled with emotion and genuine devotion.

The introduction sessions that followed became unexpected moments of connection. As each person shared their name and story, walls dissolved and community was born anew. The fellowship meals that concluded each gathering became spaces where stories were shared, relationships deepened, and the love that binds the FMM family was profoundly felt. The initiative, envisioned by the St. Francis Region, sought not only to prepare for celebration but also to weave stronger bonds, reconnect with collaborators, and rekindle the flame of shared mission that has illuminated the FMM path for generations.

A Month of Grace and Action

October’s calendar was filled with programs that, alongside ongoing social work activities, kept the community joyfully engaged in planning, preparing, and executing with true Franciscan spirit. Participants from various groups took part in the jubilee preparations, creating a vibrant atmosphere of faith and fellowship.

October 12^th brought together the Catholic Associations (CA) in a powerful service of thanksgiving and renewal.

October 15^th saw the Kalyanpuri BEC Unit gathering in prayer, creating an atmosphere of hope and determination.

October 18^th witnessed the participation of newly formed Lay Associates who are journeying with the FMM mission.

October 19^th marked a special communion as four other BEC units joined together, forming a true family spirit.

October 21th brought a special grace as sisters and fathers from three other religious congregations gathered in prayer. Their presence added a profound spiritual depth, enriching all who attended with their wisdom and devotion.

A Lived Experience of Community

What happened at Disha Kendra was a lived experience of what it means to be community. Spiritual renewal was felt in every prayer, seen in every smile, experienced in every shared meal, and breathed every day in the community.

The active participation of every group—from lay associates to religious—revealed a collective commitment that speaks to the vitality of Christ’s mission. One participant shared, “Through these gatherings, we understood more deeply what the Franciscan Missionaries of Mary stand for. We learned about the FMM mission of service, simplicity, and compassion. It touched our hearts.”

Another expressed, “Thank you for inviting us to be part of this Jubilee preparation. It was a blessing to walk this spiritual journey with the FMM family.”

Everyone who walked through the doors of Disha Kendra during those blessed days expressed their gratitude for the invitation and the insights they gained into FMM life and mission—carrying with them wonderful memories and a renewed sense of belonging.

Tender Farewell

On November 1^st , the community entrusted the sacred relic of Mamma and St. Francis to the Mater Dei Community with gratitude and renewed joy. It was a beautiful passing of grace—the next link in a chain of prayer and preparation that would encircle the entire region.

As we look toward the grand Jubilee celebration ahead, the spiritual groundwork laid at Disha Kendra reminds us of an essential truth: the strength of our mission lies not in individual efforts but in the unity we cultivate, the compassion we share, the love we extend to one another, and the unwavering faith that guides us. May this spirit continue to inspire us to live the Gospel with renewed zeal and Franciscan simpl

150 Years of Grace: 150 Dreams of Education”**

On 12th November 2025, the sisters of Immaculate convent , Assuntha Region, India, organized a meaningful and transformative Educational Support Program at Assuntha Bhavan, Hanumakonda. Bringing together nearly 200 participants—including children, teachers, and parents—the event celebrated the congregation’s 150 years of service with the inspiring theme, “150 Years of Grace: 150 Dreams of Education.” The initiative sought to empower 150 vulnerable children, including orphans, semi-orphans, and children from economically challenged families, through essential educational materials, awareness on child rights, and motivational guidance.

The program began with an awareness session addressed by experts from government and civil society who explained the four core child rights—survival, development, protection, and participation—encouraging children to view themselves as active contributors to society. FMMSSS coordinators, Ms. Karuna and Mr. Srikanth, sensitized the children on online safety, cyber exploitation, and key child-related laws including POCSO, JJ Act, and the Child Marriage Prohibition Act, reinforcing the importance of knowing their rights and seeking help when needed.

The second session focused on motivation and educational support. Addressing the children, Sr. Anna Mary emphasized education as a path to value-based living, dignity, and transformation. Sr. Alberta and Sr. Regina Chinnappa reflected on the historical significance of the FMM congregation’s 150th anniversary and how supporting 150 children symbolizes the congregation’s enduring mission of hope. Sr. Sahaya encouraged children to dream boldly, believe in their potential, and use the educational materials responsibly.

The highlight of the programme was 30 FMM sisters joined this joyful celebration.

The event concluded with the distribution of educational kits—school bags, notebooks, and stationery—to 150 deserving children .The joy on the faces of the children and the gratitude expressed by parents highlighted the deep impact of this initiative. This program not only met immediate educational needs but also strengthened children’s awareness of their rights, safety, and self-worth. It stands as a powerful testimony to the FMM congregation’s commitment to nurturing vulnerable communities and ensuring that every child is given the opportunity to learn, grow, as it was the great dream of Blessed Mary of the Passion dream.