150 Years of Grace Jubilee Article

150 YEARS AGO…

150 YEARS AGO…

A Brief History in Honour of the 150th Jubilee of the Foundation of our Congregation, the Franciscan Missionaries of Mary, written by Sr. Celine Monteiro, FMM, who witnessed and lived through nearly half the history of our Institute and is no more. This inspiring narrative beautifully captures her experiences and reflections as she journeys through the annals of our history, while also conveying her enthusiasm and hope for the future.

The Institute of the Franciscan Missionaries of Mary was recognized by the Church on 6th January 1877. It was the feast of the Epiphany (manifestation of Jesus to the ‘Gentiles’, that is the shepherds and wise men). The Institute of the Franciscan Missionaries of Mary (then known as the Missionaries of Mary) and the Foundress, Bl. Mary of the Passion believed this was providential that the Institute be born on this day when Jesus made himself known to shepherds and wise men and the Institute was to carry out the same mission of making Christ known to those who did not know him. As we are going to celebrate 150 years of the Institute it is good to recall its story.

This new-born Institute grew very fast in numbers, as it was the first Feminine Institute for ‘Missionaries’ and many young girls were eager to go to these “missions”. However, in the very lifetime of the Foundress, 7 missionaries of 4 nationalities, gave their lives in China when they were put to death for their faith. What a shock this was for the foundress! 7 young sisters were lost. Yet, the reaction of Mary of the Passion was: Now I have 7 JOYS and 7 SORROWS: JOYS because they offered their lives to the Lord, SORROWS because the Institute lost the seven committed sisters all at once! The Institute grew in numbers so much so that at the death of the foundress, there were almost 3,000 missionaries. This number continued to increase till it reached its peak of around 11000 members in the 1960’s!

However, after Vatican II, the numbers gradually diminished year by year, while now we are about 5000 members! At the time, Pope John XXIII called for the Second Vatican Council. It was because he wished “to open the windows of the Church to let in some fresh air.” All religious orders needed to do the same, so the Church called on all religious congregations to have a Special Chapter, to go back to their sources, that is, the Charism of their founders, to renew their lives according to the former Charism confided to the Founder. This led to radical changes in the way of life of religious, and corresponding amendments were made to the Constitutions. The Institute had a Special Chapter in 1966 when many outdated customs were deleted or replaced, e.g, our dress was contextualised. Our sisters in different parts of the world adopted the dress of that place: Africa, the Far East, and in India, we have adopted the sarree as our official dress.

Our language in the liturgy used to be Latin, both the Mass and the Prayer of the Church. Then onwards Mass was celebrated in the language of the country and the Prayer of the Church at first was in French as this was the language of the Institute. Very soon, this too, was changed and we prayed in the language of the country. For us, in India, we pray together in English. However, even our prayer was undergoing some transformation. We began to read the Sacred Scripture. (In olden times we were not allowed to read the Old Testament! Now we could read the whole Bible), and so began to read, reflect and share on this more and more frequently, and try to build our lives on what we read, hear or share.

All through these years, our FMM sisters were trying to respond to the signs of the times educating the young minds, healing the wounded persons through counselling and medical service, rendering pastoral service to the people crossing cultural differences and language barriers, while we have been challenged by the situations from outside and within.

Now we are learning the art of listening! Listening to the Spirit breathing in us. In our Constitutions the Chapter on Prayer is entitled “Listening to the Spirit”. The Spirit has much more to say to us than we to Him/Her. St. Francis even tells us we must go into the cell of our hearts to pray. However, as the world is changing drastically and very fast, we, religious need to keep up with the signs of the times, not to become more “worldly” but to adjust our way of life to be able to be more fruitful in our mission and thus responding to God’s voice.

So now, to celebrate 150 years of our existence, we have planned a 3-year programme. The theme for the first year 2024 was “LISTENING TO THE BREATH OF GOD IN US“: for 2025 it was “RECOGNISING THE BREATH OF GOD IN MARY OF THE PASSION” and in 2026 “BREATHE WITH GOD ‘HERE I AM! We have had varied reflections, retreats, activities etc., to enable us to move along, trusting that this will help our own personal transformation as well as our active ministries and to be able to celebrate in all truth our 150 JUBILEE celebration.

O Triune God, breathe forth yourself through us, “Here we are.” Amen.

Sr. Mercy Janifar Charles Rosario FMM

for Sr.Celine Monteiro FMM.

Centenary at its ZenithA Jubilee of Grace, Gratitude and Hope

Centenary at its Zenith A Jubilee of Grace, Gratitude and Hope

Our Lady’s Convent, Thoppumpady, joyfully celebrated the culmination of its Centenary on 15 April 2026, marking one hundred years of God’s abundant grace, faithful missionary service and unwavering commitment to the Gospel. More than a celebration of history, the Jubilee became a profound expression of gratitude for the countless blessings bestowed upon the Franciscan Missionaries of Mary and the people they have served since the foundation of the convent on 31 May 1926.

Sisters from various FMM communities, especially from the Chennai Region, gathered with immense joy to participate in the solemn Thanksgiving Eucharist. The Holy Mass was presided over by Rt. Rev. Dr. Joseph Kariyil, Bishop Emeritus of the Diocese of Cochin, together with numerous priests, religious and faithful. A moving entrance procession of one hundred Sisters carrying lighted lamps symbolised a century of faith, sacrifice and missionary service.

In his message, Bishop Joseph Kariyil reminded everyone that a centenary is not merely a celebration of the past but a renewed call to become faithful witnesses of Christ. Rev. Fr. Robin Daniel OFM Cap., in his inspiring homily, described Our Lady’s Convent, Thoppumpady as a centre radiating Gospel values and encouraged the Sisters to remain rooted in the Eucharist while revealing the compassionate face of Christ through humble service in the spirit of Blessed Mary of the Passion.

The liturgy continued with the Prayer of the Faithful, a symbolic Offertory Procession and the singing of the Te Deum. Sr. Ananthi Xavier, Superior, expressed heartfelt gratitude, while Sr. Maria Selvi, Regional Superior, presented the Centenary Memento to the Bishop.

The public gathering witnessed the presence of Church leaders, religious, civil authorities, benefactors, alumni and collaborators. The Centenary Souvenir, Echoes of Grace, was released by Rev. Fr. Josy Kandanattuthara, Vicar General. Cultural programmes, including a dance drama on Blessed Mary of the Passion and the seven FMM Martyrs of China, beautifully portrayed the missionary heritage of the congregation. A documentary on the history of the convent highlighted its century-long service in education, pastoral ministry and social outreach.

The fellowship meal strengthened bonds of communion and thanksgiving. As the centenary celebrations concluded, every heart echoed the same conviction: God has been faithful. Standing at the threshold of a new century, Our Lady’s Convent, Thoppumpady renews its commitment to continue the mission entrusted by Blessed Mary of the Passion. With grateful hearts, the Sisters praise God for the past, embrace the present with hope and confidently entrust the future to His loving Providence. May the echoes of grace continue to inspire generations yet to come.

Threads of Change: Women Transforming Lives through Skill and Confidence

Sacred Heart Convent, Godavarikhani, Assunta Region

On 12^th March, 2026 at Sacred Heart Convent, Godavarikhani, an inspiring story of transformation unfolded as nearly 35 women successfully completed a tailoring and embroidery training program and received their certificates. The ceremony marked not just the end of a course, but the beginning of new possibilities in the lives of these women.

The participants, including mothers of Primary and Pre-Primary students and women from nearby communities, embraced the opportunity to learn and develop their skills. What began as a training program soon became a journey of transformation, turning them into confident and capable individuals.

The graduation ceremony, held on March 12^th at 11:30 a.m. in St. Francis Hall, was a proud moment for all. In an inspiring display of confidence, the women themselves conducted the program as Masters of Ceremony.

Dr. Spandana, the resource person, Sr. Appalonia, Sr. Thecla Marneni, and Sr. Arogya Mary Avvari, the Tailoring Teacher Mary and the embroidery teacher Mrs. Jamila were cordially invited for the programme.

The program began with a prayer and a prayer song by the women, setting a meaningful tone for the event. The participants expressed their joy not only in completing the course but also in gaining valuable knowledge about their health.

A key highlight of the event was a session by Dr. Spandana, an alumna of the institution, who spoke on women’s health and well-being. Her insights and practical advice were highly appreciated by the participants.

The tailoring women honoured Dr.Spandana, the gynacologist the resource person for the day with shawl

The women expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity provided within the school premises.

They acknowledged the dedicated efforts of their teachers, Mary and Jamila, whose patient guidance and disciplined approach helped them steadily, improve. For many participants, what began as a casual interest soon turned into a meaningful pursuit, shaping both their abilities and their outlook on life.

Tailoring Women are honoured with certificates after the completion of the cutting and tailoring. More than a training centre, the space became a place of belonging. Women formed friendships, supported one another through challenges, and discovered strength in community. It offered them not only technical knowledge but also emotional encouragement and a renewed sense of dignity.

The impact of the program extended beyond financial independence. It nurtured self-confidence, self-worth, and the courage to dream bigger. Participants described how they now feel more capable of contributing to their families and taking steps toward a better future.

What stood out most during the event was the confidence with which the participants spoke. Many of them, who once hesitated to express themselves, now shared their achievements and future plans with clarity and pride. Their voices reflected a journey of growth—one that went far beyond learning a skill.

Vidhya – Tailoring Graduates’ Experience

I joined the tailoring course at the centre without even knowing how to handle fabric properly. Within a few weeks, I was able to stitch a frock for my daughter and a blouse for my mother-in-law at home. Earlier, I depended entirely on tailors for everything. After the training, I can now take accurate measurements, select the right seams, and complete my work neatly. Seeing my family wear the clothes I’ve stitched inspires me to continue learning and improving my skills.

From family to customers – Sandhya’s next step

From family to customers – Sandhya’s next step

I began by stitching clothes for my children. When my neighbours noticed the quality of the finishing, they started asking me to sew for them as well. Now, I receive orders for blouses, churidars, and festive outfits. The certificate gave me confidence, stitching for my family gave me courage, and now, with orders from others, I feel capable of standing on my own.

Threads of confidence: Navya’s experience

I didn’t know how to operate a sewing machine when I first joined. Step by step, I learned how to take measurements, cut fabric, and stitch garments. Now, I sew churidars for my children and blouses for us at home. Seeing my family wear what I’ve made fills me with pride. The training gave me the skills, and stitching for my family gave me the confidence.

This initiative demonstrates that when women are given the right opportunities and support, they become powerful agents of change. Through every garment they stitch and every design they create, they are shaping not just products, but their own futures—filled with hope, resilience and independence.

The day closed with shared smiles and lasting memories for the teachers, and tailoring women alike – a reminder that when skills are placed in willing hands, homes save, families bond and livelihood begin to grow from the very fabric of daily life.

Sacred Heart Convent, Godavarikhani

Women’s Day Celebration 2026

FMM Social Service Society (FMM SSS)

“I Am Designed to Win & No One Can Stop Me”

One of the most significant outreach initiatives of the Franciscan Missionaries of Mary – Social Service Society (FMM SSS) St. Anthony’s Home, Mumbai is the annual Women’s Day celebration for the underprivileged communities we serve. This year’s event was held on 7th March 2026 at St. Anthony’s Home, with the participation of nearly 350 beneficiaries from various outreach projects.

Participants included members from St. Bhakita Project (Commercial Sex Workers), CHOICE (HIV infected persons), Pravasi Kiran (migrant persons and Reya Road), Rangeela (LGBTQ community), Project Vidya (tuition children) and Health Out reach Medicine Group Members. The theme for the celebration, “I Am Designed to Win & No One Can Stop Me,” emphasized resilience, self-belief, and the strength to overcome life’s challenges.

The Guest of Honour, Mr. Amin Patel, MLA of the Mumbadevi Constituency, and Guest Speaker, renowned motivational speaker Mr. Gaston D’Souza, graced the occasion. The programme was also attended by Sr. Elizabeth Mathai, FMM, Superior of St. Anthony’s Home; Sr. Mary Kurian, FMM, Superior of Villa Theresa, Peddar Road; along with other FMM sisters from both the houses.

The celebration began with a graceful diya prayer dance performed by the children of St. Anthony’s Home, creating a warm and uplifting atmosphere., Sr. Sherly, Coordinator of FMM SSS, welcomed the guests who were presented with potted plants as a token of appreciation and she also and briefly highlighted the various social initiatives carried out by the organization. Mrs. Asha the anchor for the programme introduced the guests and invited Mr Amin Patel to Share his thoughts.

In his address, Mr. Amin Patel commended the FMM SSS St. Anthony’s Home Mumbai specially Sr. Sherly for her dedicated service to the marginalized communities. Reflecting on the theme, he encouraged the audience to recognize their inner strength and ability to rise above difficult circumstances. Sr. Sherly also cited the inspiring example of Mrs. Nirmala Tai, a widow who has been serving at the FMM SSS center for over five years with dedication. Despite personal hardships, including caring for her paralyzed husband and raising her children single-handedly, she continues to work diligently in preparing ration parcels for beneficiaries. In recognition of her commitment, she was honoured with a special gift presented by Mr. Amin Patel.

The motivational session by Mr. Gaston D’Souza brought great enthusiasm to the gathering. Through simple interactive games and engaging activities, he encouraged participation and filled the hall with laughter. He spoke about the strength and dignity of women, highlighting their role as caregivers, homemakers, and often breadwinners. His inspiring message emphasized that determination and self-belief can help overcome even the most difficult obstacles.

The programme also featured a moving poem titled “A Woman – Her Grit to Succeed,” recited by Pream Raj, a member of the transgender community. Pream Raj, a trans man, also composed the poem himself. Another touching moment came when Mrs. Ujwala Rawat, an HIV-positive participant who travelled nearly three hours from Virar, shared her inspiring story of resilience. While caring for her three daughters and her paralyzed husband, she spoke about the strength and determination that keep her moving forward. Her courage and positive spirit deeply moved the audience.

At the conclusion of the programme, the guests were presented with beautiful hand‑painted souvenirs created by Sr. Rita Daniel FMM. The participants were then provided with snacks and dry ration supplies.

The event concluded with heartfelt gratitude to Sr. Sherly, Sr. Elizabeth, Sr. Mary Kurien, Sr. Rita, all volunteers, sponsors, and the support team whose efforts made the celebration possible.

The Women’s Day Celebration 2026 was truly a meaningful and memorable occasion, leaving participants inspired with the powerful message that every individual has the strength and potential to rise above challenges and succeed in life.

Sherly Joseph FMM,

Coordinator FMM SSS St. Anthony’s Home, Mumbai.

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.