Former students of the Nazareth School of Nursing in Mokama, Bihar, gathered at Nazareth, Kentucky, on Sept. 25 for a reunion of friendship, shared memories, and a connection with the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth that has continued across decades and continents.

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The nurses, now living and working in communities across the United States, spent several days together at Nazareth. Sister Jackulin Jesu guided the group during their visit, which included time on the grounds, tours of Heritage Hall and St. Vincent Church, visits to local attractions, and time to simply enjoy one another’s company.

During an informal gathering in the Columba Room, the nurses introduced themselves and reflected on their years at the nursing school and hospital in Mokama. Many spoke about the discipline, clinical training, community life, and spiritual grounding they received there. They recalled Sisters who taught them, supervised their work, and expected them to learn every part of nursing carefully.

Several said those lessons continued to guide them long after they left Mokama.

One nurse remembered that even as nursing practices and technology changed, the foundation she received in Mokama remained with her. Others spoke about the reputation Mokama trained nurses developed as they began working throughout India and later in other countries. Their training often opened doors, even during years when obtaining formal certificates and completing examinations presented challenges.

Members of the group have remained connected through the years, keeping in touch across cities, states, and countries and sharing news about their families, classmates, and the Sisters they knew. One participant described the bond as something that could be renewed immediately, even after many years apart.

The gathering brought together nurses who have built careers in many areas of healthcare, including bedside nursing, intensive care, advanced practice and nursing informatics. Some spoke of returning to school later in life, earning additional degrees and continuing their education. Again and again, they connected their confidence and persistence to the formation they received in Mokama.

One nurse recalled caring for a premature baby during her training. When the baby was finally discharged after several months, the child’s grandmother gave her a sweater she had made. Decades later, the nurse still keeps it as a reminder of those days and the relationships formed through nursing.

The group also shared lunch with the Sisters in the Motherhouse dining room and met many members of the Nazareth community throughout their stay.

Before leaving the morning gathering, each nurse received a Nazareth candle to remember their visit. They were encouraged to keep Nazareth, Kentucky, in their hearts, as they have carried Mokama with them through the years.

For the visitors, coming to Nazareth offered another connection to the community that helped shape their lives. Though their paths have taken them far from Bihar, the gathering showed that the friendships, lessons, and memories formed at Mokama remain very much alive.

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