“Annakutty” they called her little Anna. That’s how Saint Alphonsa of the Immaculate Conception was known in her early years. This church, Saint Alphonsa Syro-Malabar Catholic Church in Los Angeles, stands as a testament to her remarkable life. She was born in India on August 19 1910. Alphonsa overcame immense personal challenges to become the first Indian woman canonized as a saint.
Saint Alphonsa’s early life was marked by hardship. Her mother died young and she was raised by her maternal aunt. Hagiographies recount a childhood filled with strict discipline and the teasing of other children. Despite these difficulties, her faith remained unwavering.
Even from a young age, Alphonsa felt a strong calling to religious life. She desired to become a bride of Christ and dedicate herself to serving others. Legend says this conviction was reinforced by a vision of Thérèse of Lisieux. Alphonsa admired Thérèse and believed she foretold her future sainthood.
In a desperate act to avoid an arranged marriage, Alphonsa intentionally burned her feet. This act left her partially disabled for the rest of her life. It also solidified her resolve to pursue her religious calling.
Anna joined the Franciscan Clarist Congregation. She completed her education there. On August 2 1928, she received the postulant’s veil. She then took the name Alphonsa of the Immaculate Conception. This name honored Alphonsus Liguori. His feast day fell on that date.
Alphonsa’s health declined significantly between 1930 and 1935. She took her permanent religious vows on August 12 1936. Two days later, she returned to Bharananganam from Changanacherry. She briefly taught at St Alphonsa Girl’s High School. Poor health often prevented her from fulfilling her duties. Throughout her years as a Clarist sister, Alphonsa endured severe illness.
In December 1936, she recovered from her ailments. This recovery was attributed to the intercession of Kuriakose Elias Chavara. However, she continued to experience health issues. On June 14 1939, she suffered a severe bout of pneumonia. This further weakened her.
An intruder entered her room on October 18 1940. This caused her shock and temporary amnesia. Her condition worsened. Her health continued to decline. She received the sacrament of Anointing of the sick on September 29 1941. The next day, she regained her memory. Her health remained fragile.
Alphonsa died on July 28 1946 at the young age of 35. She was buried at St Mary’s Catholic Church in Bharananganam. Her funeral was attended by a large number of people.
Claims of miraculous intervention began almost immediately after her death. These often involved children from the convent school where she taught. The diocesan process for her beatification began on December 2 1953. Alphonsa was declared a Servant of God.
Pope John Paul II beatified Alphonsa on February 8 1986. He did this during his apostolic pilgrimage to India. On October 12 2008, Pope Benedict XVI canonized her at Saint Peter’s Square. This made her the first canonized saint from India.
Saint Alphonsa’s life reminds us that even in the face of suffering, faith and devotion can lead to extraordinary things. This church, named in her honor, stands as a beacon of hope and inspiration to all who seek solace and strength in their faith.
Visit Saint Alphonsa Syro-Malabar Catholic Church. Reflect on her life and find inspiration in her unwavering spirit.