Saint Mariam Thresia Chiramel Mankidiyan

Biography

Saint Mariam Thresia Chiramel Mankidiyan, also known as Maria Theresa Chiramel, was born on 26 April 1876 in Trichur, Kerala, India. From a young age, she demonstrated a deep piety and desire for a life devoted to God. At the age of 10, she made a vow of private chastity, dedicating herself to a life of purity and holiness. Tragedy struck Mariam's life when her mother passed away when she was just 12 years old. This event deepened her faith and propelled her to commit herself to prayer and serving the poor and sick in her parish. Mariam's compassionate heart extended to the lonely individuals in her community, whom she sought to comfort. In her pursuit of a more meaningful spiritual life, Mariam formed a prayer group with three friends. Together, they engaged in apostolic work, reaching out to the neediest families in the village, including those from the Untouchables caste, who faced societal discrimination. In 1903, Mariam requested permission from Apostolic Vicar Mar John Menachery of Trichur to build a house of prayer and retreat. However, her request was initially refused. Mar John Menachery encouraged her to test her vocation by entering different Congregations. Mariam followed this advice and joined several religious communities. Eventually, in 1913, her bishop granted her permission to establish the home she envisioned. On 14 May 1914, Mariam founded the Congregation of the Holy Family. Under her guidance, the Congregation flourished, with the establishment of three convents, two day schools, two boarding schools, a study home, and an orphanage. By the time of her death, the Congregation had grown significantly and had expanded its presence to Kerala, northern India, Germany, Italy, and Ghana, with over 170 houses. Saint Mariam Thresia Chiramel Mankidiyan lived a life dedicated to God and the service of others. Her selflessness, deep spirituality, and commitment to prayer were evident in her tireless efforts to uplift the marginalized and comfort the lonely. She was known for her compassion and her desire to reach out to the most vulnerable in society, not only through her direct service but also through the establishment of a religious Congregation that would continue her mission even after her passing. Mariam's extraordinary virtues were recognized by Pope John Paul II on 28 June 1999, when he declared her venerable. On 9 April 2000, Pope John Paul II beatified her, acknowledging her sanctity and the miracles attributed to her intercession. Finally, on 13 October 2019, Pope Francis canonized her as a saint in a ceremony held at Saint Peter's Basilica in Rome, Italy. Although no specific patronage is attributed to Saint Mariam Thresia Chiramel Mankidiyan, her life serves as an inspiration and an example for all those seeking a deeper relationship with God and a fuller commitment to love and serve others.