(July 28, 2025)
First Canonized Saint of India
Patron Saint of: Suffering and illness
About St. Alphonsa of the Immaculate Conception
Saint Alphonsa (1910–1946) was born Anna Muttathupadathu in Kerala, India, and became the first woman of Indian origin to be canonized a saint in the Catholic Church. From a young age, she desired to belong entirely to Jesus and joined the Franciscan Clarist Congregation, taking the name Alphonsa of the Immaculate Conception.
Throughout her life, St. Alphonsa experienced immense physical suffering, including a severe burn accident and chronic illness, which she accepted with deep faith and joy, uniting her pain to Christ’s Passion. Her quiet life of prayer, humility, and sacrifice became a powerful witness to many.
She died at the age of 35, but after her death, many miracles and healings were reported through her intercession. Pope John Paul II beatified her in 1986, and Pope Benedict XVI canonized her in 2008.
Prayer to Saint Alphonsa
O gentle and humble Saint Alphonsa,
you bore suffering with love and patience.
Teach us to embrace our crosses with trust in Jesus,
and help us to find peace in times of pain.
Pray for the sick and suffering,
that they may find healing and strength in God.
Saint Alphonsa, pray for us!
Amen.
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