Born : 28.10.1932
Entered Bethany : 15.10.1960
First Profession : 04.05.1962
Perpetual Profession : 03.05.1968
Entered Eternity : 18.05.2021
“ I glorified you on earth by finishing the work that you gave me to do”.(John 17:4)
These might have been the sentiments of Sr Grace when she breathed her last on Tuesday 18 May 2021, at 8:.30 pm at the age of 89 and 59 year of her religious life at Jyothi Nilaya Bangalore.
Sr Grace BS (89) nee Celestine Monteiro hails from St Antony’s Parish Kulur, Mangalore Diocese, Karnataka. She was the third child among the five children of the late Callistus Monteiro and late Rosalin D’Souza. One among them was a religious sister (Sr Mary Laura of St Ann’s Providence). Sr Grace had her Primary education in Kulur and High school education at Little Flower Girls’ High School Kinnigoli . She joined Bethany on 15.10.1960 and made her First Profession on 04.05.1962. She had her TCH training at Rosa Mystica Gurpur, Mangalore.
She had special love and devotion to the Blessed Sacrament and Blessed Virgin Mary. She brought the entire world to God through her prayers of intercession. She was urged to participate in the Eucharistic sacrifice both in the morning as well as evening. In praying the rosary she found great strength and consolation. Her wisdom, welcoming and sober presence, compassionate love for the needy and selfless service inspired one and all. She had wit and humor even amidst her pain and struggles. She was a loving sister, known for her simplicity, joviality, cheerfulness, life of contentment, and child like ways. She exemplified the dignity of labour and lived the Little Way of St Therese by doing little things with great zest for God. Keeping flower gardens as well as kitchen garden were her special interests. .
After her profession she served as a loving and dedicated teacher in our institutions at Bajpe, Kinnigoli, KR Nagar, Bangalore and Sagar. She has rendered commendable service in the field of education. She enthusiastically involved in pastoral activities, non-formal education and social service especially to the women and children, true to the charism and spirit of our Founder.
In 2019 she had a fall and fractured her hip bone. She could not be operated as she was suffering from sleep apnea and gradually became incapacitated. Later she was shifted to Jyothi Nilaya community for better care. She displayed great faith and heroic endurance during her pains and suffering. She was given the spiritual assistance and care during her last moments by the Superior and community as well as the Provincial Superior who is residing on the campus. Her funeral rites will be held at Jyothi Nilaya Convent Chapel, Bangalore, on 19.05.2021 at 11:00am.
I extend my sincere condolences to Sr Sahana, the Provincial Superior and her team as well as to Sr Susan , the Superior of Jyoti Nilaya community and all the members who lovingly assisted her on her journey of life. Eternal Rest Grant unto her O Lord and let perpetual light shine upon her. May her soul rest in peace.
Sr Rose Celine BS
Superior General
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