AVILA CONVENT
AVILA CONVENT
Supirior
Head Mistress- FALPS
In 1966, the Church of St. John De Britto Narampady was gearing up for its silver jubilee celebration. The Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Frederick P.S. Monis, displayed remarkable zeal, collaborating with parishioners on various projects for the all-around development of the Parish. Committed to contributing to the Parish's growth through spiritual renewal and educational facilities, Fr. Monis sought the assistance of a women's religious congregation, particularly those who could connect well with the simple and hardworking parishioners.
Fr. Frederick Monis approached the Superior General of the Ursuline Franciscan Congregation, V. Rev. Mother Genevieve, to establish a convent in Narampady Parish. The objective was to have the sisters manage the primary school, engage in catechesis, and provide assistance in pastoral activities. With the permission of the Bishop of Mangalore, Most Rev. Dr. Basil S. D'Souza, the convent began in May 1966 with four sisters – Sister Jane Frances, Marcline, Elfreda, and Ida – with Sister Jane Frances serving as the first Superior.
As the convent building couldn't be constructed immediately, the sisters resided in staff quarters within the church compound for a year. Despite anticipating inconveniences and hardships, the sisters were prepared to face them. Fr. Monis ensured the construction of a prominent convent building in a central location with sufficient land close to the bus stand in Narampady village.
The foundation stone for the convent building was laid on October 16, 1965, during the feast of St. Teresa of Avila. Despite strenuous efforts, the building process took nearly two years. Finally, the convent was blessed and inaugurated by Bishop Basil D'Souza on May 10, 1967. Fr. Monis, deeply invested in the project, felt a sense of satisfaction, witnessing the unbounded gratitude of the sisters expressed through their zeal and hard work.
The sisters worked tirelessly to enhance the quality of teaching, discipline, and the overall atmosphere of the school. Their dedication extended to various church activities, including catechizing children, maintaining church cleanliness, decorating the altar, and serving as animators for associations like altar boys, Marian Sodality, YCS, ICYM, Legion of Mary, and Missionary of the Children. They actively engaged with the community, participating in social activities such as cultivating paddy, growing vegetables, and distributing them to improve the lives of the less fortunate.
Over the past 59 years, numerous sisters have contributed their labor of love at Narampady, guided by the leadership of superiors and headmistresses. Presently, three sisters reside in the convent – Sr. Precilla D'Souza (Superior), Sr. Precilla D'Cunha (Headmistress of the school), and Sr. Aurelia D'Souza (assisting in pastoral work).
In gratitude, the community thanks Almighty God for His choicest blessings and seeks His guiding hand to remain with them as they continue a life of dedication to the people and cosmos with love, generosity, and zeal.