In the memory of two Legends

A memorial ceremony was organized on the 241st death anniversary of Irish Catholic religious sister Nano Nagle and to commemorate Pope Francis on the day of his funeral.

Under the aegis of the Ashray Abhiyan organization, a tribute ceremony took place today at St. Xavier’s High School, Gandhi Maidan, chaired by Sr. Dorothy Fernandes, Director and Secretary of Ashray Abhiyan. The event marked the 241st death anniversary of Nano Nagle and the recent passing of Pope Francis. Floral tributes were offered at her portrait, and homage was paid. Attendees discussed the contributions of Nano Nagle in detail.

Contributions of Nano Nagle:

(1) Empowering and Transforming

Nano Nagle focused on education and social support for the poor and disadvantaged. She established schools for children and shelters for women.

(2) Community Service

She served the community and supported the underprivileged.

(3) Struggle for Social Justice

Nano Nagle opposed discrimination and injustice faced by Irish Catholics.

(4) Dedication to Humanity

Her lifestyle and work inspired others to assist the disadvantaged.

While presiding over the program, Sr. Dorothy Fernandes stated that Nano Nagle has been recognized as a saint for her dedication. Her legacy continues to inspire education and social justice in Ireland and globally.

Sr. Dorothy Fernandes further noted that Nano Nagle advanced Catholic education in Ireland despite legal restrictions. She founded the Sisters of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, known as the Presentation Sisters, now a global Catholic institution of women religious.

Nano Nagle was declared venerable by Pope Francis in October 2013.

Pope Francis

Following the death of Pope Francis, Sr. Dorothy Fernandes remarked that there is widespread grief over his passing. Pope Francis served as the spiritual leader of the Catholic Church from March 2013 to April 2025, for nearly 12 years. He led a simple life, avoiding luxuries, and traveled 465,000 kilometers across 68 countries, including Iraq and Muslim nations, promoting peace and harmony worldwide.

Sr. Dorothy Fernandes noted that Pope Francis often said, "My people are poor, and I am one of them," emphasizing his commitment to serving the poor.

Several individuals, including Dilip Patel, Rajesh Kumar, Arun Kumar Mehta, Ranjeet Kumar, Sudarshan Kumar, Dharmendra Kumar, Rukmini Devi, Saraswati Devi, Pramila Devi, Babli Devi, Asha Devi, Shabnam Khatoon, Geeta Devi, Kabutari Devi, Anju Devi, Lalti Devi, Sunita Devi, Chinta Devi, Rita Devi, and many others addressed the event.

Performance by Young People

A street play on the issue of substance abuse was performed by the youngsters from Sahgadi Masjid area. The actors were Ashish, Dhiraj, Pinky, Ujjwal, Kumari Naina and others. They were trained by Aashray Abhiyan cultural coordinator Dharmendra.