Blessed Sr. Rani Maria Vattalil – Martyr and Missionary

BLESSED. RANI MARIA VATTALIL

Sr. Rani Maria, a martyr for her faith, was a missionary who dedicated her life to serving the poor and oppressed in India, particularly in North India. She was murdered for her efforts to spread Christianity. Her act of forgiveness, demonstrated by her family, is a powerful testimony of Christian love and grace.

Blessed Rani Maria Vattalil was born on January 29, 1954, in Pulluvazhy, Ernakulam district, Kerala, India, into a devout Catholic family. Baptized as Regina Mariam, she was the second of seven children. From a young age, she felt a calling to religious life and joined the Franciscan Clarist Congregation (FCC) in 1971, taking the name Rani Maria. After completing her religious formation, she made her first profession in 1974.

Sister Rani Maria was assigned to various missions in northern India, particularly in the Diocese of Indore, where she worked among the marginalized communities. She was instrumental in organizing self-help groups for tribal women, empowering them economically and socially. Her efforts to combat exploitation by moneylenders and landlords in the region made her a target for those whose interests were threatened by her advocacy.

On February 25, 1995, while traveling by bus from Udainagar to Indore, Sister Rani Maria was stabbed 54 times by a hired assassin. Despite her brutal murder, she died uttering the name of Jesus. Her death was a direct result of her commitment to social justice and her unwavering dedication to the poor and oppressed.

In recognition of her martyrdom and virtuous life, Sister Rani Maria was beatified on November 4, 2017, in a ceremony held in Indore, India. The beatification was presided over by Cardinal Angelo Amato, the Prefect of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints, representing the Holy See. The event was attended by thousands of faithful, including the man who had been responsible for her death, who later expressed deep remorse and sought forgiveness.

Blessed Rani Maria's life and sacrifice continue to inspire many, especially in the areas of social justice, forgiveness, and service to the marginalized. Her feast day is celebrated on February 25, the anniversary of her martyrdom.

Feast Day

4-11-2017

Birth Date

29-1-1954

Died Date

25-2-1995

Canonised Date

4-11-2017

Indore, India

Blessed Rani Maria, you gave your life in love and service to others, even in the face of great suffering. Intercede for us, that we may live with the same courage and compassion. Help us to remain faithful and strong in our own trials, and to always seek justice and peace. May your example of sacrifice inspire us to serve God and our neighbors with a pure heart. Amen.
BLESSED. RANI MARIA VATTALIL

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BLESSED. RANI MARIA VATTALIL

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