Lived to the full, loved to the best,
Touched the hearts of many, young and old, in and around
Admired by many, your gentle smile and approach,
Served the Lord till the last days with dedication and determination
And in time you departed so peacefully to your eternity.

Dear sisters,

Shalom Nivas
28.10.2020

A mixed feeling wells up in our minds as we recall our beloved Sr. Mary Xavier. Gratitude to God for the 68 faithful years of Holiness, joy for the fullness of life lived, sorrow by recalling the memories that she left behind, we miss her everywhere.

Caroline Alice Saldanha- who is named as Sr. Mary Xavier was bloomed on earth on 13th February 1925, as the youngest child of Mr. Sebastian and Mrs. Monthi Saldanha among 11 children, in the town called Bejai in Mangalore, cradled with love and affection.

After completing her initial studies, realizing the call of God in her life Caroline Alice Saldanha joined the FSM Congregation in 1952 as a postulant in Mangalore and said her first Yes to the Lord on 28th of May, 1955, as Sr. Mary Xavier. She made her Final Commitment on 23rd of May 1960. Mean while she completed her study to serve the Lord as a Home Science teacher.

Sr. Mary Xavier rendered her services in various communities. Being head of the home science, she worked mainly in Nazareth convent at Mangalore for many years. She carried out her works in Mathigiri, Elathagiri, Vittal, Assisi Nilaya, and MPK as a Home science teacher and taking care of the poor children. Also she rendered her service at Dhynaashram in Bangalore. Her fine arts which were exhibited in drawing, knitting, stitching and catering made others at the wonder to the work of her hands which the Lord had gifted her with. Through this she also helped the mission sales indirectly. Even a month before we realized her health was weakening, she taught knitting to the candidates. She was a teacher for sisters and formees all around, practicing all that she had learned, for the glory of the one who gifted her, till she was able no more.

She spread around her the spirit of St. Francis- Joy and warm heartedness, love and affection and perfected herself in Gospel values of charity. Perfectly organized and punctual in every walk. A well brightened spiritual life that kept her glowing. Willingness and generosity to do her maximum whatever may be the woks of the community. Till a year ago, she would actively participate in the liturgy, preparing and conducting, meaningful and inspiring prayers. Yes, she was exemplary in many ways, to be looked at. She loved and lived religious life faithfully, joyfully, meaningfully. Loved the congregation, grateful to the authorities and sisters, respect and love for the poor and less privileged , the workers, the suffering- were her hidden treasures.

She was a glowing candle – grown gracefully old , attracted all walks of people- religious and laity, priests and nuns young and old. She had an amazing family tie from the eldest to the smallest one by name. Loved them and loved by them. Up to the mark in updating herself by reading articles and magazines.

It is said, there should be a reason to go. We noticed her to be declining in health, a few weeks ago, she had little cold and mild rise in temperature for two days. For safety we took care of her in her own room for almost 10 days. With the complaints of weakness, she was admitted in St. John’s hospital for a week, where we got the shocking news that she was diagnosed to have leukemia. Due to the age and weakness doctors advised to take her home and provide her comfort care and so she was discharged. In weak and tired moments she remained always asking to pray together. She asked for confession while gracefully waiting for the Lord to take her home and received the last sacrament with ardent desire. On 23rd morning at 4 am, surrounded by Sr. Miriam and all the sisters of three communities in prayer and singing, she bid farewell to this world.
Beloved Sr. Mary Xavier,

Your life was a blessing, your memory a treasure; you are loved beyond words and missed beyond treasure.

Your life was love and labour. You did your best. Your endless journey has begun finding your eternal love. With heavy heart we wish you good bye hoping to meet you one day in heaven. We pray, may you intercede for us in your heavenly kingdom that we may reach our destiny gracefully.

With fresh memories in our hearts and minds,
Your sisters of Shalom Nivas Community,