Saint Euphrasia Eluvathingal was an Indian Carmelite nun known for her deep spirituality, charity, and miraculous intercessions. She spent her life in devotion to prayer, helping the poor, and living an ascetic lifestyle. She was canonized in 2014.
Saint Euphrasia Eluvathingal was born on October 17, 1877, in the village of Puthenchira, Kerala, India. She was baptized as Euphrasia, the daughter of a devout Christian family. From a young age, she exhibited a strong desire to live a life of prayer and piety, which led her to the Carmelite Order at the age of 20.
Euphrasia joined the convent of the Sisters of the Most Holy Virgin Mary at the Monastery of St. Joseph in Ollur, Kerala, and took the name Euphrasia upon her entrance. She lived a life dedicated to prayer, fasting, and meditation, seeking only to serve God and the community. Her life was marked by extreme devotion to the Eucharist, a life of asceticism, and a profound love for the poor.
She spent much of her life in seclusion within the convent, dedicated to contemplation and prayer. Despite her isolation, she was known for her ability to perform miracles, such as healing the sick and helping the poor. She was also recognized for her deep spiritual wisdom and the ability to give guidance to those who sought her counsel. Her reputation as a saintly woman spread throughout the community, and many people sought her intercession in times of need.
Throughout her life, she endured many physical trials, including ill health and loneliness, yet she remained steadfast in her faith and dedication to God. Her life was one of suffering in silence, living out the values of humility, obedience, and charity. Euphrasia was a quiet, humble servant who lived her vocation with such love and devotion that it touched the hearts of many around her.
Saint Euphrasia passed away on August 29, 1952, at the age of 74, after a life of profound holiness. Her death was mourned by the community, but her legacy continued to grow as more and more people attested to the miracles she had performed during her life and after her death. She was buried in the convent, and her tomb became a place of pilgrimage for those seeking divine intercession.
In recognition of her life of holiness, charity, and prayer, Saint Euphrasia was beatified by Pope John Paul II in 2005. On September 24, 2014, she was canonized as a saint by Pope Francis. Her canonization was celebrated with great joy, especially in Kerala, where her life had inspired many. She is a patron of the Carmelite Order in India and is widely venerated for her deep spirituality and commitment to helping the poor and suffering.
Saint Euphrasia’s life serves as an example of how one can live a profound life of service and prayer, seeking only God and loving one’s neighbors with a selfless heart. Her legacy is a reminder of the power of humility, devotion, and the importance of living a life centered on faith and charity.