Salesian Sister Annie Theyattil Celebrates 50 Years of Consecrated Service

Around 500 Catholics, including 25 priests and 25 religious sisters, gathered at St. Sebastian’s Parish in Kurtumgarh, Odisha, on September 16 to celebrate the Golden Jubilee of Religious Profession of Salesian Sister Annie Theyattil, FMA. The celebration marked 50 years of Sister Annie’s consecrated life and service as a member of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians, popularly known as the Salesian Sisters of Don Bosco. Auxiliary Bishop Rabindra Kumar Ranasingh of the Archdiocese of Cuttack-Bhubaneswar presided over the celebration. In his homily, he reflected on Sister Annie’s five decades of religious life, describing them as a witness to faith, prayer, sacrifice, service and perseverance. Drawing from Jesus’ words in John 15:16, “You did not choose me, but I chose you,” the bishop encouraged Sister Annie to continue her vocation with renewed faith, courage and joy. Born on September 29, 1953, in Ernakulam, Kerala, Sister Annie made her First Profession in 1976 and Final Profession in 1986. During her religious ministry, she spent 10 years serving in Kandhamal, a predominantly tribal district of Odisha. Her ministry in Kandhamal included helping establish a new religious community and later a school. Through this work, she served children, families and parish communities in the region. During the Golden Jubilee celebration, Sister Annie expressed gratitude to God for her vocation and to the many people who had accompanied her throughout her 50 years of religious life. She said she hoped the coming years would continue to be dedicated to serving God and humanity. Parish priest Fr. Dushmonth Nayak said the jubilee celebrated not only the length of Sister Annie’s religious commitment but also the impact of her service on the local community. Young people from the parish also took part in the celebration. Parish youth member Sunam Nayak highlighted Sister Annie’s example of faith, humility and service and expressed gratitude for her guidance and encouragement. The celebration included a cultural programme presented by parishioners and young people and concluded with a shared meal. For the Kurtumgarh parish community, the Golden Jubilee marked five decades of Sister Annie’s religious profession and her continuing service among the people of Kandhamal.