MOKAMA, INDIA

The untimely demise of Sister Cecily Velleringatt, SCN, is a shocking memory for all of us. She struggled hard for life through her brief serious illness for the last ten days at Orchid Medical Center in Ranchi. During her illness she was fortunate to have the presence of several SCNs, her own sister Vandana and family and friends at her bedside. The SCNs in Ranchi community were exceptionable in reaching out to meet the various needs of Cecily, family and visitors. In spite of the best care given to her she bade goodbye to all of us on the 19th of August 2014 at 6.05 p.m.

Her funeral was held on the 20th August 2014 at 2.30 p.m at Nazareth Convent, Mokama, India. In her welcome address Sr Basanti Lakra, the Provincial of Patna Province briefed the congregation about Sister Cecily.

The main celebrant of the Mass was Archbishop William D,Souza S.J of Patna Archdiocese along with 30 priests from different dioceses. There was a huge representation from SCNs, Staff and parishioners of Gaya Nazareth Academy, Mokama parish, porters from the railway station, and workers. Sister Vandana, two sisters, two brothers and a niece represented the family filling the chapel to it’s capacity. In his homily the Archbishop highlighted the impact of her life as a committed SCN on the young SCNs of the community as a formator and on the youth in education and the poor. He also said that she is a person touched by God and was in tune with the Spirit in all her activities. Sharing of lived-in-experiences with Sister Cecily was very touching and tearful. The carefully planned liturgy with meaningful hymns helped us to ponder and thank God for the beautiful life of our dear Sister.

The messages from across the globe were read out which indicated our solidarity in the time of sorrow.

The funeral service was concluded by a vote of thanks by Sister Philo Kottor, SCN. The rites of burial were conducted by Fr. Peter Ignatius SJ, Mokama parish priest. Thus we bid a tearful goodbye to our dear Sister Cecily promising her to walk in the footsteps of committed daughter, Mother Catherine Spalding.