Herald Malaysia
MELAKA – The Canossian Sisters marked their 120th anniversary at the Sacred Heart Convent on Sep 19 with a solemn Eucharistic celebration and a time of fellowship, commemorating more than a century of faithful service in Malaysia.
The Mass was presided over by Bishop Bernard Paul, with concelebrants Frs Devadasan Madala Muthu and Neville Arul Sinnappah.
Bishop Bernard reminded the congregation that the occasion was “not merely a commemoration of time passed, but a celebration of lives poured out in love, of faith lived boldly, and of charity that has truly set the world on fire.”
Drawing inspiration from Matthew 25:40, the bishop highlighted how the Sisters have consistently seen Christ in the poor, the sick, the abandoned, and the young. “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me,” he said, underscoring the heart of the Canossian mission.
He also evoked the words of St Magdalene of Canossa: “Charity is a fire that ever spreads out,” noting how that fire has burned through classrooms, convents, homes for the aged, and pastoral ministries —warming hearts, healing wounds, and lighting the way for countless souls seeking hope.
“Your light has shone brightly,” Bishop Bernard affirmed, echoing Jesus’ words from the Sermon on the Mount: “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” He encouraged the Sisters to be renewed in their vocation, to continue spreading the fire of charity, and to inspire all to serve with humility, love without limits, and hearts set ablaze for Christ.
The year 1905 holds a special place in the history of the Canossian Sisters. Responding to the call to serve the Portuguese missions in Malacca, the Sisters journeyed from Singapore at the invitation of the Bishop of Macau. Welcomed warmly by the local community as the “Portuguese Sisters,” they established their first foundation at the Sacred Heart Convent on Jalan Parameswara, Bandar Hilir, Melaka, also known as the “Portuguese Convent.” In 1950, they further expanded their mission by founding Canossa Convent in the Portuguese Settlement.
From these humble beginnings, the Sisters’ mission blossomed over 120 years, growing to include six schools, four kindergartens, two learning centres, pastoral ministry in parishes and dioceses, care for the elderly, and collaboration with the Gabrielite Brothers at Montfort. Their compassionate presence and tireless dedication have left an indelible mark on countless lives.
Today, the Canossian Sisters carry forward their mission across Malaysia, serving in the Diocese of Malacca Johore and the Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur, with convents in Melaka, Kluang, Segamat, Jinjang, and Sungai Siput. Guided by the vision of their foundress, St Magdalene of Canossa, who reminded them, “We are but simple, humble women, called to do the greater work of love and service,” the Sisters have remained steadfast as missionaries and pastoral workers, living out a life of love, humility, and service.
As they celebrate this remarkable journey, the Canossian Sisters mark 120 years of devotion and mission, reflecting a legacy of faith, compassion, and selfless service. Their commitment continues to inspire and guide generations to follow in their footsteps, a radiant testament to a life set ablaze for God and humanity. – Herald Malaysia
