Diocese Of Allahabad

Kanpur, Fatima Convent

Naini, Bethany Convent
Sultanpur, Stella Maris Convent
BETHANY CONVENT, NAINI

Address:	Bethany Convent, Naini P.O., Allahabad - 211008
Telephone:	0532 – 2695064
Superior:	Rev. Sr. Salarin BS

A Brief History

Allahabad is the land of Holy Sangam where religion, history and culture come together. Bethany Convent, Naini, in Allahabad, is located close to this beautiful place on one side and central jail on the other. One can imagine how isolated a place Naini was in the 1960’s. The people of Naini, had requested Rt. Rev. Raymond D’Mello, the Bishop of Allahabad Diocese, to open an English medium school in Naini. Foreseeing the scope for future development, the Bishop requested Mother Macrina, the Superior General and President of the Bethany Educational Society, Mangalore, to help him out. In response to this dire need, Mother Macrina sent five Sisters - Sr. Rosine, Sr. Noeline, Sr. Maria Rose, Sr. Geraldine and Sr. Eunice to Allahabad on 29th June 1965. The sisters arrived to this historical and religious city on June 29th, 1965. These sisters were guests at the Bishop’s House before they were escorted to their residence at Naini on 2nd July 1965.

Bishop Raymond D’mello took great interest in the well being of the sisters. The surrounding area was a vast stretch of land that gave a deserted look, as there was no human habitation in the vicinity. On one side the sisters could see the frightening high walls of the Central Jail, and on the other, the privately owned agricultural land. Some of the villages in the neighbourhood were infamous for their criminal activities. In addition to this, it took hours sometimes for one to cross the mighty Yamuna Bridge that separated the little town from Allahabad city. One could dare to live in such area only with the divine help. In their lonely moments and trying times, it was Bishop D’Mello, who offered them the help, support, encouragement and direction they needed. He visited them often despite his ill health to bless, encourage, guide and advise them. Bethany will always remain indebted to him for his initiative, love, care and concern as a true pastor.

There was another saintly Priest, Fr. Paul Menezes, Who with his indefatigable zeal and selfless spirit of service helped the sisters by looking after the construction of the school building. It was not an easy task for an ageing man to endure the sizzling heat of summer, and the biting cold of winter. But nothing could deter or dampen the undying spirit of this great missionary of Christ. In the evening hours after a tiring day, he would visit the people in the neighbourhood and his flock as a pastor of the parish.

Mother Sylvine, the Superior General, laid the foundation stone for the new convent building on 2nd February 1984, at 6.00pm after the Holy Eucharist. A small plot of land adjacent to the Church land was given by Bishop Mudartha in exchange for a small plot of land owned by the Sisters on the campus.

On 11th February 1985, the feast of our Lady of Lourdes, Mother Sylvine, the Superior General, inaugurated the new convent building. She was accompanied by Mother Macrina. Bishop Mudartha blessed the building. Sr. Canice, the Regional Superior, and Mr. D. Kaushik, the builder, were also present. The strenuous labour put in by Sr. Marie Therese, the local Superior and Principal, needs to be deeply appreciated.

Bethany is indebted to the benevolent Bishop Raymond D’Mello and the Diocese of Allahabad for the loan of Rs.1,00,000/-(one lakh only) from the Diocese and again a sum of 50,000/- without interest to be refunded in installments.

The Bethany Sisters at Naini will always remember with gratitude the kind and generous service of many Priests of the Diocese, their hospitality, co-operation, good will and spiritual help. Sisters still remember Rev. Fr. (Late) Eric Pinto, who provided the Sisters with warm clothes sent by him from abroad in the early years when the sisters felt a financial crunch.

List of Superiors:

Sr Rosine	July 1965 – June ‘71
Sr Felicitas	July 1971 – June ‘74
Sr Evangeline	July 1974 – June ‘77
Sr Ophelia	July 1977 – June ‘78
Sr Hyacinth	July 1978 – June ‘81
Sr Rosalie	July 1981 – June ‘84
Sr Marie Therese	July 1984 – June ‘90
Sr Innocentia	July 1990 – June ‘93
Sr Shaila	July 1993 – June ‘96
Sr Alvina	July 1996 – June ‘99
Sr Emmanuel	July 1999 – June 2002
Sr Grace Maria	July 2002 – June 2005
Sr Lyra	July 2005 – June 2008
Sr Innocentia	July 2008 – June 2009
Sr. Yvonne	July 2009 – June 2012
Sr. Salarin	July 2012 – to date

Allahabad, St. Anthony's Convent
Anpara, Canossa Convent
Faizabad, Canossa Convent
Kanpur, Jyothi Bhavan
Pratapgarh, St. Francis' Convent

Canossa convent, Anpara

Address:	Canossa Convent C/o St. Francis School Anpara P.O. Sonebhadra Dist - 231 225
Telephone:	05446 - 272676
Email:	canossaanp@rediffmail.com
Superior:	Rev. Sr. Nellie Dantas FDCC

A Brief History

It was in 1983 that the Bishop of Allahabad Most Rev. Baptist Mudharta who expressed the desire to have canossian sisters working in one of the mission stations in western U.P. The church had started a school for the benefit of the people of Anpara. He knew that the presence of religious sisters would improve the quality of education there. He offered the challenge to the Canossian sisters. This was the period when the Canossian sisters in India had divided into one province and two delegations, south and north. The first delegate to the north M. Olive Rodrigues informed the provincial M.Ita Fernandes about the offer. In one of her visits to the north delegation Bishop Baptist Mudharta took M.Ita Fernandes and M.Olive Rodrigues to the proposed place Anpara. It was a Godsend golden chance to further the mission work of the canossian sisters in the north which otherwise was limited to just five communities since 1951.

Anpara was a small underdeveloped land of the tribal in western U.P. in Sonbhadra district. As the name suggests Sonbhadra is the gift of the river son, the largest district in U.P. It lies in the extreme southeast of the state. Its terrain is richly blessed by the Son river as it flows through the heart of the district from east to west, Robertsganj being the district head quarters. The region has several thermal power generating companies (U.P.S.E.B).

Anpara is a small township and mainly significant due to the presence of UPVUNL (Utter Pradesh Vidyud Udpadan Nigam Ltd.) This factory has vast residential complex with its own shopping centers, stadium, parks and school .The management of this factory entrusted the educational responsibility to the Bishop of Allahabad. This came as a boon for the presence of the church in this place. Bishop Mudharta immediately took up the opportunity. An agreement was signed between the diocese of Allahabad Educational society and the factory management on 19th August 1981. In response Rev. Fr. Philip Scaria and Bro Innocent were sent to Anpara to start the spade work. On 1st Sept 1981 a coeducational English Medium School was started with 20 students from classes L.K.G to std 1 in a temporary structure at Kashimore. The school was shifted to the present building in1983. In Dec 1983 Fr. Philip Scaria was called to his eternal abode unfortunately by an accident. In 1984 Fr. Mark D’Souza took up the reigns. As the strength of the school was galloping up Bishop Baptist Mudharta invited the Canossian Daughters of Charity to the core team with the priest in charge.

St. Anthony’s Convent Allahabad the mother house of the North Delegation prepared the initial necessities and sent forth its two daughters along, in a truck as the journey takes about six hours drive from Allahabad. This auspicious day was 25th June 1984, to be precise 4.30.p.m. The chosen ones were Sr. Elsie Pallipat and Sr. Mary Mundaplakal and Miss Carmalla, a companion to them. The priest in charge Fr. Mark D’Souza and M. Olive Rodrigues the provincial delegate accompanied them. After brief stops at Robertsganj and Renukoot they reached Anpara at 8 a.m. on 26th June, 1984. They found the house with wide open doors and several people with happy smiles of welcome on their faces to receive them.

29th June 1984, on the feast of Sacred Heart of Jesus was the day of formal inauguration of the house. The Bishop Most Rev. Baptist Mudharta, five other priests from Allahabad and Fr. Mark D’Souza solemnized the Eucharist and blessed the house in the presence of many officials of the factory, sisters and priests from neighboring mission stations and our sisters from Allahabad.

The sisters engage themselves in the school and collaborate with the principal in the day today activities. Besides they visit families, give free tuition to poor Catholic children in the afternoon hours, teach catechism in the parish, prepare children for sacraments and so on.

On the 8th of April 1985 the community got the decree of approval from the Generelate. The canonical erection of the house at Anpara was signed by Mother General Elide Testa and General Secretary M. Ilva Fornaro. Anpara at that time was in Mirzapur District.

The 19th of April 2009 was a golden day in the life of Canossa Convent, Anpara. Our hearts exalt with praise and gratitude for the countless blessings bestowed upon us during the past 25 years. 35 sisters had been sent for the community over the period to spread the good news and support the parish and school. Rev Fr. Jacob Bona D’Souza took keen interest in making the event a memorable one. Sr. Elizabeth Thottumari, the provincial superior and 14 other Canossian sisters were present for the celebration.

Presently (2011) we are four members Sr. Maria Rose, Sr. Sandra Misquitta, Sr. Reema Lakra and Sr. Veronica Dabreo carrying out the same mission which our pioneer sisters had started in collaboration with the priest in charge Rev Fr. Jacob Bona D’Souza, who is very vibrant and enthusiastic to make Jesus known and loved.

Superiors so far:

Sr. Elsie Pallipatt	1984-1987
Sr. Maria Rose Puthett	1987-1989
Sr. Nita Chovelikudiyil	1989-1992
Sr. Mavis Faria	1992-1995
Sr. Annie Kalathil	1995-1998
Sr. Philo Thundiparmbil	1998-2004
Sr. Nellie Dantas	2004-2007
Sr. Elsy Thondikara	2007-2010
Sr. Veronica Dabreo	2010-2013
Sr. Nellie Dantas	2013 to date

Jyoti bhawan, Kidwainagar

Address:	Jyoti Bhawan, 194/A/ K Block, Kidwainagar, Kanpur – 208011
Telephone:	0512 - 2607146
Superior:	Sr. Lata FDCC

A Brief History

The Canossian Sisters came to Kanpur on the 1st of July 1989. The convent was started as the 14th house of Canossian sisters, under the vice province, Queen of Peace North India. Sr. Ita Fernandez was the provincial superior at that time. The convent was under St. Thomas Church, Kidwainagar. Rev. Fr. Benedict Pereira was the parish priest. Initially the sisters stayed in a rented house in K-Block which belonged to Mr. Tiwari. At the beginning there were four sisters. Sr. Nellie Dantas was the superior. They were teaching in St. Thomas School, Kidwainagar.

A new convent was constructed after a year. The sisters shifted to the new place on the 30th of July. It was blessed by Rev. Dr. Isidore Fernandes, Bishop of Allahabad Diocese, on the 1st of September 1990. The first floor of the convent was constructed during the year 1999.

At present there are four sisters. Three sisters are teaching in St. Thomas School. One sister is engaged in pastoral and social work.

The list of the superiors who worked in the convent:

Sr. Nellie Dantas	01-7-1989 to 24-6-1992
Sr. Celine Thomas	31-6-1992 to 23-6-1995
Sr. Hilda Burgus	25-6-1995 to 09-6-1998
Sr. Nita Chovelikudiyil	27-6-1998 to 19-6-2001
Sr. Savia Coutinho	23-6-2001 to 18- 6-2007
Sr. Nellie Dantas	20-6-2007 to 24-6-2010
Sr. Gracy Madavana	24-6-2010 to 2013
Sr. Lata	2013 to till date

Allahabad, St. Mary's Provincialate
Allahabad, St. Mary's Convent ‘21’
Allahabad, St. Mary's Convent ‘32’
Allahabad, Mary Ward Bhawan
Chunar, St. Mary's Convent
Fatehpur, St. John's Convent
Fatehpur, St. Mary's Convent
Kapoori – Meja, Sada Sahai Mata Convent
Kanpur, St. Mary's Convent
Rihandnagar, St. Joseph's Convent
Taraon, Maria Seva Sadan

St. Mary’s Convent, Kanpur

Address:	St. Mary’s Convent, 53 Tagore Road, Cantt., Kanpur – 208 004
Telephone:	0512 – 2382550
Superior:	Rev. Sr. Lata CJ

A Brief History

"Those only love truly who are wholly God’s and such only are strong and apt for all good works as are in this world to be done.” (Mary Ward (1585-1645), Foundress of the Congregation of Jesus)

Around 1890, Kanpur, situated near the Ganges, was not only a military station, but an important railway centre and a fast growing commercial centre. The then Military Chaplain of the station, seeing the need for a Catholic school which would have ample scope for all good works, approached the then provincial superior, Mother Angela Hoffman to found a House and school at Kanpur. For a long time the request had to be shelved due to the scarcity of personnel and funds. However in December 1898 four sisters came to Kanpur as a community on mission, but as yet without a house of their own. The Military Chaplain, generous to a hilt moved out of his house to provide temporary accommodation in his own house and he lived in a tent until the sisters could find a house of their own. In March 1899 a small and sparsely furnished house was found and the sisters began their mission amid many difficulties. In 1904 the sisters were permitted to buy the beautiful estate on which the present school and convent stands. In 1899 the school began with 108 students on the Roll, with 8 sisters, all from Germany teaching them. The school had a chequered history, including great hardships experienced by the German sisters during the two world wars. However, they, motivated by the dauntless spirit of Mary Ward who in similar situations believed that “women in time to come will do great things,” worked hard to lay a strong foundation of faith in their students besides imparting excellent academic training. The Chronicles also record the endeavours of the sisters who visited the nearby villages along the Ganges regularly, dispensing medicine and bringing comfort and healing love of Jesus to the poor and needy.

In the early 1970s the students of St Mary’s English Medium School, motivated by the LTS (Leadership Training Service) movement active in the school, started teaching the poor children of the neighbouring villages after school hours, and then getting them admitted to local Hindi medium schools. Later as part of the Province’s effort to introduce Education for Transformation in a more organized manner, a school for the poor was started in the premises, which has now taken its own identity as Mary Ward Primary School (Hindi Medium). St Mary’s English Medium School sees to the financial needs of the Mary Ward Hindi Medium School as part of the Allahabad Province’s pledge to promote ‘faith that does justice.”

St Mary’s Kanpur stands for progress and excellence in academics, extracurricular activities and above all in character building assisted by a dedicated team of sisters and lay staff. (Our school website ID is: www.smccjkanpur.org)

St Mary’s has always taken special care of the Christian community. Poor Catholic students are helped financially and remedial classes are conducted for them regularly. Tailoring and computer classes are held for the poor girls of the locality empowering them for financial independence. Our present ministry includes family visits, faith formation, youth ministry and reaching out to the needy. We are involved in parish activities by teaching catechism, preparing children for First Communion, Confirmation and forming faith in the heart of the youth by various activities. We join in the parish Choir on all occasions.

“God is the beginning, middle and end of all our good.” Mary Ward

St. Joseph’s Convent, Rihandnagar

Address:	St. Joseph’s Convent, NTPC, Rihandnagar, Sonebhadra Dt, U.P. – 231223
Telephone:	05446 - 242790
Superior:	Rev. Sr. Rajni CJ

A Brief History

This house is located in Sonebhadra Region and was established in 1985. The sisters assist the Diocese in running the St. Joseph’s Senior Secondary School and also collaborate with the parish priest in providing the pastoral care to the people. The convent celebrated its Silver jubilee of its establishment in 2010.

The following sisters served the community as superiors in the past years.
Sr. Juliana C J
Sr. Rosalind C J (R.I.P)
Sr. Rosalia C J
Sr. Roshni C J
Sr. Amala C J
Sr. Josita C J
Sr. Rajini C J

Mudila, Khrist Bhavan

Sada Sahaya Mata Convent, Mudila

Address:	Sada Sahay Mata Convent, Khrist Bhavan, Mudila, Hamidpur P.O., Sultanpur Dt, U.P. – 228 145
Telephone:	05364 – 278067
Superior:	Rev. Sr. CSS

A Brief History

Sada Sahay Mata Convent, popularly known as Khrist Bhavan, is inhabited by the Sisters belonging to the Congregation of Samaritan Sisters. Seeing the pressing needs of Mudila mission, late Bishop Baptist Mudartha invited the Samaritan Sisters to help out in our educational and health apostolate. Then Superior General Rev. Sr. Immaculata accepted the invitation to open the convent at Mudila. 16th July 1987 four Samaritan Sisters with Sr. Clementina as superior landed in Mudila. First they stayed in the old house which was then blessed by Bishop Mudartha. Fr. John Louis D’Souza was the mission-incharge. After four years Bishop Isidore Fernandes built the new convent and blessed it on 29th June 1992.

Ever since their arrival in Mudila, they have be actively involved in the educational, health and social apostolate. Three sisters are set apart to teach in our school from primary up to high school. One sister is appointed as the headmistress in the primary and another for the junior and high school. They are dedicated service to the education of the poor children, especially the girl child.

The mission runs a health centre. One nurse sister is set apart for the health ministry. The people from nearby villages come to the centre for various sicknesses, especially for snakebites and delivery cases.

There was a time when the Samaritan sisters were involved in the social apostolate in the area. There was one sister and 9 animators who had taken up 30 villages for animation programmes on health, education, legal aid and literacy. As a result there were Self Help Groups in 24 villages. Women empowerment especially the women’s day was celebrated in a grand way. Since we don’t have a sister for social apostolate, and there are no projects, at present the work has been stopped.

Sisters also take active part in our church activities. They are actively involved in the bible festival and other programmes. Their presence makes a lot of difference in our mission. They have completed 25 years over here. There was a grand Silver Jubilee celebration on 5th May 2012. Rt. Rev. Isidore Fernandes, provincial Sr. Clementina, and many Fathers, sisters, brothers and faithful of the place were present at the solemn occasion.

Allahabad, Nazareth Niwas
Allahabad, Christ Jyoti Convent
Allahabad, Nazareth Convent (Hospital)
Phaphamau, Hartmannganj Convent

Naramau, Vinayalaya Convent
Shaktinagar, St. Joseph’s Convent

VINAYALAYA CONVENT, NARAMAU

Address:	Vinayalaya Convent, Pargahi, Kachar, Naramau, Kanpur – 209 217
Telephone:	0512 – 2770775
Superior:	Rev. Sr. Kripa DSH

A Brief History

The Daughters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus established a new convent at Naramau, Kanpur, in the year 1996. The new convent was inaugurated by Most Rev. Isidore Fernandes, the Bishop of Roman Catholic Diocese of Allahabad, on 27th June 1996. The inauguration ceremony was attended by then Parish Priest Rev. Fr. Francis Pereira, priests and religious and lay people from the town. The Bishop blessed the house and a new batch of sisters started their community life. The first batch of sisters consisted of Rev. Sr. Sheila Stuart, the Superior of the Convent, Rev. Sr. Benedict Valine, Rev. Sr. Sheila Thomas and Rev. Sr. Lincy. The convent was named as Vinayalaya Convent.

The following is the list of sisters who were posted at Vinayalaya Convent:

Sr. Sheela Stuart (Superior)	Sr. Jermina	Sr. Salomi
Sr. Valine Benedict	Sr. Alphonsa	Sr. Sonali
Sr. Shila Thomas	Sr. Cynthia	Sr. Johncy
Sr. Lincy Anto	Sr. A. Gracy	Sr. Tracy
Sr. Philo Anthony (Sr. In charge)	Sr. Sabina	Sr. Catherine Alex (Sr. Superior)
Sr. Mariella Cyriac (Superior)	Sr. Mariam Jacob	Sr. Shalini
Sr. Jemma Ekka (Superior)	Sr. Nutan	Sr. Kripa Maria (Superior)
Sr. Rosy Raphael	Sr. Lynette	Sr. Manju
Sr. Annie David	Sr. Irene Saldhana	Sr. Emerentia Tigga
Sr. Anna Xalxo	Sr. Gabriella

Asnabandh, Khrist Jyoti Convent

Malipur, St. Joseph’s Convent

Dostpur, St. John the Baptist Convent

Allahabad, Missionaries of Charity
Kanpur, Shishu Bhawan
Kanpur, Missionaries of Charity

Theresapur, St. Theresa’s Convent

Khaga, St. Mary’s Convent

Jaffarganj, Snehalaya Convent

Akbarpur, St. Peter's Convent
Jagadishpur, Christ the King Convent

Address:	St. Peter’s Convent, Akbarpur P.O. Ambedkar Nagar Dt. UP - 224122
Telephone:	05271- 246414
Email:	stfakbarpur@gmail.com
Superior:	Rev. Sr. Lima OSF

A Brief History

From 1979, Secular Congregation of Maids of the poor sisters served the people at Akbarpur. Due to a tragic accident in 2000, in which 2 sisters lost their lives, maids of the poor congregation decided to close their community in Akbarpur. It remained vacant for some months till the arrival of Dillingen Franciscan sisters from Bilaspur. [Chhattisgarh]

At the invitation of the Bishop of Allahabad Most Rt. Rev. Isidore Fernandes, the Province of the Mother of Good Counsel opened a new convent at Akbarpur in order to serve the people of God through English medium school and parish ministry. Sisters Jessy and Lilly accompanied by Sr. Sophia and Sr. Paulit arrived at Akbarpur on April 18, 2001. The next day Rev. Fr. Michael, the acting Principal of the school, blessed the new station and offered the Holy Eucharist for the new community.

Sr. Sanita was appointed the first local superior of the community in July 2001. In the beginning Sr. Jessy and Sr. Lilly were the first community members along with Sr. Sanita.

The majority of the people in Akbarpur are Hindus; there is a sizable member of Muslims, only a few Christians are there. There is a small Church and a small Catholic community.

Sr. Sanita took a new venture in 2002 and started stitching, knitting, painting and embroidery classes for girls and ladies in the existing stitching hall. Maids of the poor were conducting these classes before the Franciscans ventured into. This tailoring center continued till 15th June 2007. After the transfer of Sr. Sanita on 16th June 2007, the tailoring centre had been closed. Sr. Magy, the successor of Sr. Sanita, had taken the charge as local superior from 4th July 2007 to 6th June 2009 . Sr. Lima as local superior was appointed in Akbarpur on 5th June 2009. At present there are four members Sr. Lima osf, Sr. Magy osf, Sr. Gyani osf & Sr. Pushpa osf. All the four sisters are greatly involved in the teaching ministry of St. Peter’s School and St. Peter’s Church activities.

Superiors so far:

Sr. Sanita	2001 to 2007
Sr. Magy	2007 to 2009
Sr. Lima	2009 to Till

Akbarpur, St. Peter's Convent
Jagadishpur, Christ the King Convent

ST. MARY’S CONVENT, MIRZAPUR

Address:	St. Mary’s Convent, Peelikoti, Station Road, Mirzapur – 231 001
Telephone:	05442 - 265415
Superior:	Rev. Sr. Mary Magdeline UFS

A Brief History

Mirzapur city is situated adjacent to Delhi- Howrah railway route known as the Grand Cord. This route is considered among the oldest one in India and was constructed by the Britishers.

The mission station Fatima Ashram is situated about 1k.m. away from Mirzapur Railway Station. Majority of the people of Mirzapur are Hindus, besides Muslims and Sikhs. The people are engaged in the railway work, carpet industries, business and agriculture.

Rt. Rev. Bishop Mudartha, metropolitan of Allahabad at that time, had invited the Ursulines in August 1988 to open a convent at Mirzapur with the view of teaching in the school and helping in the evangelical and catechetical works. The invitation was renewed by his successor Bishop Rt. Rev. Isidore Fernandes. Consequently Srs. Josline D’souza, Maria Magdaline Mascarenhas and Postulant Anitha D’souza led by Sr. Cymprose D’Almeida as Superior reached Mirzapur on 8th June 1989. The convent and the school were officially inaugurated a month later on July 8th.

Rev. Fr. Sebastian D’Cruz, Parish Priest and Principal of the school was the moving spirit behind the venture.

The Bishop was happy to entrust to the Sisters the task and the responsibility of sharing in the church’s mission in his diocese. The Sisters accepted this mission happily and whole heartedly. As the diocese of Allahabad is a missionary one, the Sisters are expected to adapt to the local conditions. The apostolic activities entrusted to the Sisters encompass the catechetical, liturgical, social and education. The main apostolate of the Sisters is teaching and parish work.

St. Mary’s School has become a house hold name in Mirzapur District, due to the family atmosphere found within it which is very essential for integral education. The school is an alloy of determination and hard work put together by great efforts of the principal and the staff. Four Sisters are involved in teaching. They motivate the students to work with devotion and dedication.

According to the needs of the time and place the Sisters take interest to cater to the Pastoral needs of the Parish. There are about 31 catholic families in this Parish. By the encouragement and the support of the Parish Priest, the Sisters take keen interest in building up of the Faith of the people, by conducting various spiritual activities in the Parish. The Sisters have never lost sight of the social aspect of their apostolate. They not only visit the catholic families but also visit the non-Catholics. The Sisters spend considerable amount of time with the people, listening to them and understanding their problems. They give more attention to the slow learners in the class as well as after the class. As a result the people feel happy and express their gratitude for being with them especially in times of their difficulties and sickness. Non-formal literacy classes for the children of the surrounding villages were held every evening in the convent premises. Awareness on health and hygiene, moral values and empowerment of girl child is given more importance.

Superiors so far:

Sr. Cymprose D’Almeida	1989 – 1995
Sr. Cecilia D’Souza	1995 – 2000
Sr. Benny D’Mello	2000 – 2004
Sr. Jessy D’Costa	2004 – 2008
Sr. Mary Magdaline (Superior)	2008 Onward
Sr. Benny D’Mello (H.M.)	2008 Onward

Allahabad, Maria Sadan
Kanpur, Khristu Seva Niketan
Kanpur, Maria Bhawan
Kanpur, Mariampur Hospital Convent
Kanpur, Mariampur School Convent
Kanpur, St. Joseph's Convent
Kanpur, St. Patrick’s Convent
Obra, Sacred Heart Convent
Renukoot, Nirmala Convent
Robertsganj, St. Joseph's Convent
Sultanpur, Karunashray Convent

Christu Seva Niketan, Kakadeo

Address:	Christu Seva Niketan, 117/M/2 Double Pulia Kakadeo P.O., Kanpur - 208025
Telephone:	0512 - 2501920
Email:	jophy_04@sify.com
Superior:	Rev. Sr. Philo Jose UMI

A Brief History

Started as an informal school in 1970s converted in to a regular school in 1980s, occupying a few class rooms along with English medium students of Mariampur senior secondary school, it was well established as a Hindi medium primary school for the poor children. It was in 1989 Dr. B. Das a Bangali doctor and his wife who had no issue of their own, were inspired to donate two big buildings consisting of 10 flats to the Ursuline sisters for the charity work and the Hindi medium primary school was shifted to this building. Today it is a full–fledged high school recognized by the U.P board, financed by the English medium school and nurtured by the Ursuline sisters. At present we have a strength of 900 students of which 97% belong to SC/OBC and economically least favored.

Along with the school, non-formal education classes for Rag pickers and beggars, tailoring and embroidery classes for adolescent girls and capacity building training program for women, immunization and medical camps are also conducted in the same building as part of social work.

The building was donated by Dr. B. Das to run the school for the slum children in 1987.

Name of the Superiors and Principals :

1989	Sr. Silvana - Superior
1990 to 1995	Sr. Ersilia - Superior and Principal
1995 to 1998	Sr. Eucharistia – Superior and Principal
1998 to 2001	Sr. Philo Joes - Superior
1998 to 2001	Sr . Nazerene – Principal
2001 to 2002	Sr. Angelita – Superior
2001 – 2003	Sr. Vandana - Principal
2002 to 2004	Sr. Agnella - Superior
2003 - to date	Sr. Kripa – Principal
2004 to 2008	. Delphine – Superior
2008 - to date	Sr. Vimal - Superior

SACRED HEART CONVENT, OBRA

Address:	Sacred Heart Convent, Obra P.O., Sonebhadra – 231 219
Telephone:	05445 - 262429
Email:	heartsacred47@yahoo.com
Superior:	Rev. Sr. Sonia UMI

A Brief History

Obra is in the district of Mirzapur, surrounded on all sides by huge rocky hills. The chief industrial concern of this city is the Thermal Power Project which was started in 1960.The population of Obra consists of chiefly Hindus and Muslims who lived on cultivation of the land. As the project was being established, many officers of high rank settled here with their families.

The first problem they faced was that of the education of the children, as there were no schools existing then. The officers approached the Bishop of Allahabad, Rt. Rev. Raymond D’mello who did not have the heart to turn down their request. His Lordship extended this invitation to the ursulines to go and start a school in Obra. Mother Stefania Murelli, the Delegate of the mission accepted his invitation and on June 1st 1965. Srs.Angela, Bridget, Floriana, Graziella and Valentina reached Obra.

The welcome given to these pioneers by the people was expressions of mixed feelings. Some were certainly happy and grateful to God that at last they had a place of common worship and prayer and a school where they could send their children. But some were surprised and even a little suspicious.

In the evening Fr.Moniz offered a High Mass for the sisters. The good people had offered them a well furnished house for the convent and a few classrooms. Sr. Angela was appointed the superior of this house.

On 12th June, being the feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, the sisters started to take admissions for the school. The school already started functioning with 45 pupils and 3 sisters on the staff. Soon the name of the school spread and the number of the children increased.

The officers were very kind, co-operative and willing to help the sisters in all their needs. There was no church or priest’s house for a year and a half, during which time, the priest stayed in the convent. But soon, Bishop D’Mello succeeded in getting a small plot of land and constructed a church and a priest’s house.

The frequent visit from the good Bishop was a source of strength, hope and encouragement at the start of the new mission. By the end of the third year, the community had grown and the students numbered over 200. A few lay teachers were added to the staff.

During these years of pioneering, the sisters had to undergo many difficulties including opposition from a certain section of people who were the advocates or followers of the Arya Samaj. Once they put up a small temple in our convent plot and started their Puja. But God has been always good to us. The officers brought the police and got them out and pulled down the temple. By this time the convent and a school building were constructed as a result of much hard work. The inauguration was on May 1st 1968,by his Lordship Bishop R.D’Mello. Mother Stefania and the superiors of our convents in the North were present on that occasion.

In July 1968, the sisters started the new scholastic year in their own school building. At this time the school had to be upgraded but the cross of opposition still went before them.

The Arya Samaj began a Hindi medium school and spread false propaganda against the sisters, that they were converting pupils to Christianity. This news spread like wild fire and some of the parents withdrew their children from our school. The strength of the school fell below 100. The sisters had a tough time and they opened a Hindi medium school but it soon proved to be a failure. Still the hand of the Lord never deserted those who trusted in Him. After the storm and wind it was calm again. The school once more began to flourish steadily. In 1971, Sr. Angela was transferred and Sr. Esther took charge of the convent and the school. There were still difficulties to face. Now and then there was strike in the power house which affected the school badly. But the Christians were always faithful and generous.

In 1974 Sr. Esther was transferred and Sr. Claudia was appointed superior. She did much to improve the school and the building was extended with more classrooms for the new divisions opened that year. After a lot of hard work the school got affiliated to the Central Board Of Secondary Education, Delhi upto class X. Sr. Claudia was succeeded by Sr. Eleanora in 1978.The school and the convent contributed much to the progress of the people of the locality and it continues to do so under the leadership of Srs. Denis and Fabiola and the other sisters who joined hands and hearts to make Christ’s presence felt by the people of Obra.Taking care of the parish church, the teaching of catechism, visiting the families, especially of the students who read in our school and those of Christians are some of the extra activities of the sisters. These helped them to maintain good and friendly relationship with all.

The school and the Convent contributed much to the development of the people of the locality, inspite of the oppositions the sisters had to face from the Arya Samaj and other people. It continued to do so under the leadership of Srs. Cicily Mathew as superior and Sr. Fabiola as Principal. In 1986, Sr. Raymond succeeded Sr. Fabiola as Principal. In 1987, Sr. Jeanne Marie became Superior of the Convent and in 1988 Sr. Clare took charge of the school.

In 1989, the first floor of the school building was constructed and blessed by Rt. Rev. Isidore Fernandes, Bishop of Allahabad on 19th August, 1989. In 1990 the Silver Jubilee of the school was celebrated and Rt. Rev. Isidore Fernandes, Bishop of Allahabad was the chief guest. There was a two days programme i.e. the first day, cultural programmes staged by the students of the school, and on the second day there was Eucharistic celebration and get together with all the invitees.

In 1991, Srs. Jeanne and Clare were transferred and Sr. Celestia came in their place and took charge of the school and the convent. In 1993, Sr. Celestia was succeeded by Srs. Rita John as superior and Josy as principal. In 1995, Sr.Rita John was succeeded by Sr. Sunila and in 1997, Sr. Josy was succeeded by Sr. Yvette.

In 1998 a new building was constructed as Sisters’ residence and it was blessed on 1st February, 1998 by Fr. Thomas Serrao, the Parish priest of Sacred Heart Church, Obra. Sr. Sunila was succeeded by Sr. Anita in 1998 June. In the year 1998 August we started remedial classes for the weaker children of the school.

Taking care of the parish work, teaching of catechism, visiting the families especially of the teachers and the students of our school and those of Christians are some of our activities still continued by the sisters.

A couple of years back socio-pastoral apostolate was introduced in Obra mission by Fr. Thomas Serrao, the Parish priest. In 1997, Sr. Prasanna started to work along with Fr. Thomas in the social action unit. They worked in about ten villages with the help of a group of animators, conducting literacy classes, village primary school and other assistantial works. Sr. Prasanna worked with women and teachers and conducted activities like crafts, needle work and tailoring.

Over the years from 1998-2010 Srs Anita, Rita & Hazel have held the post of Superior cum Manager, and the school was headed by Srs. Yvette, Nirupa, Prabha and Jeanne. These sisters have left an indelible mark on the institution by their efficient and dedicated service, making it one of quality in all areas. In 2010 June Sr. Sunila became the Superior and Manager and Sr. Kiran took up the charge as Principal of the School.

On 17th February 1999 a grand celebration took place here in lieu of the completion of 350 years of the foundation of our Congregation. Enactment of the humble beginning of our institute in the school by the students, a Solemn High Mass in the parish with the Parishioners officiated by the Parish Priest Fr. Thomas Serrao and distribution of ladoos were the main events of the celebration.

In July 1999 Rev. Fr. Thomas Serrao, who did much for the spread of God’s kingdom in Obra and in the neighboring villages, was transferred and Rev. Fr. Vincent Cornelius came as the new Parish Priest. Christmas 1999 was special as there was a candle light service in our Parish on 23rd December for the entire Christian Community of Obra. Pastors and faithful of all denominations participated. The service began at the Power House Hospital gate and the procession reached the Sacred Heart Church. Priests and pastors shared the Word of God and blessed the people. Non- Christians witnessed this wonderful procession with interest and enthusiasm.

In February 2004 we celebrated the Golden jubilee of the Ursuline presence in North India. The teachers expressed appreciation and gratitude for the service rendered by the Ursulines in North India and especially in Obra, and they honoured the Sisters with garlands & gifts. There was a con-celebrated High Mass and a prayer meeting in connection with the Jubilee.

A few class rooms and a small hall were added to the existing school building, under the guidance of Sr. Prabha. The blessing took place in March 2006.

The sad news of the demise of our beloved Bishop Mudhartha on 30/05/2007 saddened us all. Some of us attended the funeral. Bishop Mudhartha’s love for the Ursulines and his fatherly care for each one of us sisters are remembered with fond memories. In July 2007 our Parish Priest Rev. Fr. Vincent Cornelius was transferred to Asnabandh and we got a new Pastor in the person of Fr. Alfred George. A hearty Welcome was accorded to him by the Parishioners and Sisters.

Though the people at Obra are rich enough to pay the fees, they are not quite generous in giving it graciously. We are often pressurized by politicians, RSS, BJP Youth Wing, Income Tax Officers, PF Officers, RTI demands and in all such difficulties we find solution in prayer. Providence of God novena and Mercy Rosary are our weapons.

Year 2010 gave us an opportunity to pay rich Tribute to our Foundress Blessed Brigida Morello as it was her 400th Birth anniversary year. The UMI sisters of Sonebhadra Zone gathered together at Obra for a day’s celebration – Study, prayer and rejoicing. A well arranged High Mass, a sumptuous lunch and a Quiz competition for sisters based on Mother Brigida’s life and our Constitution were the main events. Blessed Brigida’s life was depicted on stage in school by students.

We sisters make use of every opportunity to have prayer meetings in families of non- Christians where they have problems or sickness. Some request us to go and pray in their homes. Our knowledge of Hindi comes handy at such occasions. The time, energy and talents of the sisters are put to use at the service of the Church by way of teaching Catechism, preparation for Bible festival at Parish, Zonal and Diocesan level, Orientation Programmes for youth, Parish Choir, conducting prayer meeting & rosaries in Catholic families etc.

Under the able guidance of Srs. Sunila and Kiran and helped by Srs. Mercy, Rose Charles and Sheena the school is maintained as not only the best school in Obra, but an ideal one at that in terms standard, discipline, morals and values. Orientation programmes are conducted for the senior classes by sisters to defuse the depression and purposelessness found in the students here. Christian students and other poor students who need help are given tuitions in the school by the sisters in the evenings. We make use of all opportunities to spread the Kingdom of God in School and around. The teachers and students are made aware of Ursuline values and our Charism.

The mission Iteration of our Holy Father for the month of April 2011was, “That by Proclamation of the Gospel and the witness of their lives, missionaries may bring Christ to those who do not yet know Him.” We should have a longing and a passion to illumine all people with the light of Christ that shines on the face of the Church, so that all may be gathered into the one human family, under God’s loving fatherhood; says the reflection on the same theme. We are missionaries. So, may the Lord Jesus empower us to fulfill our duty as true missionaries.

Superiors:

Sr. Angela	1965 – 1971
Sr. Esther	1971 – 1974
Sr. Claudia	1974 – 1978
Sr. Eleanora	1978 – 1980
Sr. Denis	1980 – 1983
Sr. Cicely Mathew	1983 – 1987
Sr. Jeane Marie	1987 – 1991
Sr. Celestia	1991 – 1993
Sr. Rita John	1993 – 1995
Sr. Sunila	1995 – 1998
Sr. Anita	1998 – 2001
Sr. Rita John	2001 – 2003
Sr. Hazel	2003 – 2010
Rev. Sr. Sonia UMI	2010 – to date

ST. JOSEPH’S CONVENT, ROBERTSGANJ

Address:	St. Joseph’s Convent, Robertsganj, Sonebhadra Dt – 231 216
Telephone:	05444 - 222013
Email:	regi_umi@rediffmail.com
Superior:	Rev. Sr. Hazel UMI

A Brief History

Robertsganj was an obscure and sleepy village in the district of Mirzapur when the Ursulines sisters began their mission here. In the 60’s a thermal power station was built up in Obra and in association to that many big and small factories came up in this region. As a result population in this region increased. Education and health care became inevitable and the people approached the Bishop of Allahabad, to open schools and health centers for them. Bishop in turn requested the Ursuline sisters to open school in this region. Thus, St. Joseph’s Convent at Robertsganj came into existence on 2nd October 1963. A quiet village with green fields and shady trees with simple but hard working people, may have inspired the pioneers to name this new house as St. Joseph’s Convent, as this saint seems to have lived a quiet and humble life in a village.

First batch of sisters Stanisla, Gaetana, Veronica, headed by Sister Bianca, did much to make this place attractive as they started with a primary school in a three room building which was constructed under the wise supervision of father Paul Menezes of Allahabad diocese. The presence of sisters and the school children brought in older people too, to the convent premises for various needs and health care. Thus, the Bishop earnestly decided the sisters to be in every way possible, a help to the local people. A small dispensary was built and the patients were attended by the sisters. The need of the people would be better fulfill if the sisters moved out to the villages, to their homes, and this was made possible with the assistance of CARITAS INDIA, which gave an ambulance to the dispensary. Thus, mobility to the village with medical and healing ministry was introduced and continued since then.

To cater to the needs of the students from far of places and to help in the education of girl children boarding facilities were provided to students from 1978 on words. Of recent years the boarding was shut off due to some reasons. At present the community has 8 members engaged in different ministries – education, social service and parish activities.