Founded in 1975 by the late His Excellency Mar Sebastian Valloppilly, the first Bishop of the Archeparchy of Thalassery, the Congregation of Nazareth Sisters is a religious community of Catholic nuns deeply rooted in the spirit and lifestyle of the Holy Family of Nazareth. Functioning under the jurisdiction of the Archdiocese of Thalassery and not divided into provinces, the congregation is currently led by the Superior General, Sr. Jaseentha Vadakkel.
Inspired by the words of Jesus, “Whatever you did for one of these least ones, you did for me,” the Nazareth Sisters strive to reflect the humility and obedience of Mother Mary, living the call: “Here is the handmaid of the Lord.” Their mission is to embody the values of family life, faith, and service as seen in the Holy Family, while working tirelessly for the salvation of souls and their own sanctification.
The Congregation’s apostolate spans a wide array of ministries, including catechism, home missions, youth and family formation, parish ministry, evangelization, education, healthcare, women’s empowerment, and vocational training. With a special focus on the upliftment of migrant farmers, the founder emphasized the importance of family sanctity and security, recognizing them as the backbone of a just and holy society. Currently, 149 Nazareth Sisters serve in various dioceses across Kerala-Thalassery, Thamarassery, Palai, and Idukki-ministering to people across castes and religions with love, service, and compassion.
Extending their service beyond Kerala, the Sisters lead education and social outreach programs in mission territories such as Jammu-Srinagar, Shamshabad, and Ujjain. Their focus is on holistic development, especially among the poor and marginalized, aiming to build an inclusive and civilized society through education and spiritual nourishment.
One of the unique aspects of the Nazareth Sisters’ ministry is their emphasis on natural living and Ayurvedic healthcare. Their healthcare apostolate is not just about curing ailments but about promoting a healthy and harmonious lifestyle rooted in Indian traditions and the healing compassion of Christ. Their international presence also extends to Germany, where the Sisters serve in the ministry of the Holy Spirit, offering spiritual support and pastoral care, furthering their founder’s vision of taking the message of Jesus to the ends of the earth.
The Nazareth Sisters are deeply enriched by the virtues of their founder, particularly the simplicity of life, hard work, punctuality, complete reliance on Divine Providence, and devotion to St. Joseph and St. Alphonsa. These virtues form the backbone of their religious life and apostolic zeal, strengthening them in their mission.
As the congregation celebrates its Golden Jubilee in 2025, it is a time of thanksgiving and renewal. With grateful hearts, the sisters look back at fifty years of divine guidance and grace-walking the hills of Malabar and the mission frontiers with the spirit of Mary and the heart of Jesus, bringing peace, healing, and the gospel message to those in need. In obedience to the great commission, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature,” the Nazareth Sisters continue their journey, joyfully carrying the crosses of daily life, sanctifying the world through love, sacrifice, and faith.
