On October 10, 2019, a group of Sisters of St. Joseph and Lay Associates created history at St. Joseph’s Convent, Ratlam, India when thirty-two elderly women and widows of Ratlam Parish walked into the room. Sr. Sheela Koottala, Coordinator of the Lay Associates was the one behind this scene.
While the entire congregation celebrated the 369th anniversary of its Foundation Day, it was an apt moment to thank God for the sixty-three years of legacy lived by the Sisters of St. Joseph on the soil of Ratlam. Each sister who has stepped across the threshold of St. Joseph’s, Ratlam, has made a unique contribution towards the growth of this mission.
The day began with the exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, conducted by Mr Prakash Lobo, a Lay Associate. Sisters Pushpalata Ekka and Gloria Clarence spoke on the History and Spirituality of the Sisters. The Lay Associates, Mr Bernard Francis and Mrs Rekha Harbour offered a session on ‘How to Grow Old Gracefully’. This was to make everyone, especially those who are ageing, realize that a happy life is a significant contributor to healthy ageing.
We experienced God’s blessings as we interacted with each other. Most of us saw happy smiles behind the wrinkled faces when the widows and seniors took part in games, songs and dance. Snacks and a delicious meal followed. Gifts were distributed to the widows and elderly women making them feel truly special.
The words of appreciation towards the end brought tears of joy. We hoped the day would never end!
Mrs Leena D’cruz
Lay Associate, Ratlam
Province of Tanmaya, India
