Sister Celestina

My name is Sister Celestina. I was born in Mumbai, Uttan Pali, in a catholic family. My parents had four children; they brought us up in Christian faith, not only saying prayers and going to church, but also doing good works. Although, my desire was to join a convent and become a religious, at the age of twenty I had to make a decision with no other motive than to serve others. I received so much love from my family and friends. I had the chance of knowing the Little Sisters of the Poor in Mumbai. I felt that that was place where God wanted me, where I could take care of the elderly and be someone for them during the last years of their lives.
My journey began in 2009 and I pronounced my first vows in 2012 in Bangalore Novitiate. The Congregation of the Little Sisters of the Poor is an international Congregation spread in 32 countries of the world. A spirit of joyful hospitality embracing all with open arms, hearts and minds; fostering the participation of all in the life of the Home and rejecting all forms of discrimination.
"A vocation is a call which the Lord always faithful renews for us until the end of our life, we must remain attentive to this call." Even though it was not very clear at the beginning, my vocation has more meaning to me now than when I joined the Congregation. It has its own challenges but I am strengthened by my prayer life, community life and apostolic life.
Our Foundress Saint Jeanne Jugan said repeatedly, "Be very little, very little, very humble. If you keep the spirit of humility and simplicity, never seeking the world’s esteem, then God will be glorified and you will obtain the conversion of souls. On he contrary, if you become haughty and proud, that will be the Congregation’s downfall.” I always remember the words of Jesus, “Whatsoever you do to the least of my brothers, you do unto me.”
In serving the elderly I know that I am serving the Lord himself. Whatever sacrifice I make it would be for the salvation of souls and for the greater glory of God. I am happy to be a Little Sister of the Poor today to bring joy and happiness in the lives of the elderly Poor!