Did you know?

St. Alphonsa is India's first woman Saint!

St. Alphonsa of the Immaculate Conception (August 9, 1910 - July 28,1946)

• India's First Saint !  (website)

• First Saint of the Syro-Malabar Catholic Church - 2nd largest Eastern Rite Church

• The first Christian communities in India were established by the Apostle Thomas in 52AD

• St. Alphonsa was born in Kudamalur, India

• Baptized with the name of "Anna" affectionately known as "Annakutty"

• She threw herself into a bonfire to avoid a pre-arranged marriage

• The fire badly burned her feet !

• Now deformed she could be released from the pre- arranged marriage and enter the convent

• Joined the Congregation of the Franciscan Clarists

• Willingly accepted that holiness is obtained through the "Cross"

• Never wanted to : offend, reject or complain

• Had a great will to do: penance, speak kindly to others, control her eyes and accepted any humiliation

• Always embraced the cross and sought refuge in the Sacred Heart of Jesus

• Pope Benedict XVI canonized her on October 12, 2008 (more information)

• Feast Day - July 28