Daijiworld Media Network - Mangalore (SP)

Mangalore, Feb 25: The posthumous centenary observations of Mother Nympha Fernandes, who in spite of being the daughter of John Francis Fernandes, who was the district collector in Mangalore and his wife Anna Lobo, sacrificed comforts and luxuries for the sake of the poor people, are being held now. Mother Nympha was born in the year 1850 and breathed her last in the year 1909. The celebration of the 75th annual day of giving recognition to the Ursuline Sisters as per the diocesan regulations is also being held during the year.

Nympha excelled in leadership qualities and courage. She was appointed as the first president of Sodality. Later, she was elected for this post repeatedly in successive years.

The service centre she set up with the support of 12 dignitaries, was inspired by a priest named Fr Urban Stain.  Educating the young children living in the Bunder region of the city on patriotism, duties towards society etc was close to her heart and her main aim was to be helpful to the society. She brought together 12 women from the city and the neighobourhood and set up her 'Nympha Sadan' by the side of Rosario Church here, to be able to attend masses daily in the church. She was the first to start a home for religious sisters in the city.

Nympha Sadan is a house for the aged which is run by Urusline Sisters. Many choose to lead a peaceful life at the home for the aged being run by Ursuline Sisters here, during the twilight of their lives, even when they are otherwise financially stable.