Teresa of St. Rose of Lima, CSST
Founder of the Institute of the Carmelite Sisters of Saint Teresa (CSST), St. Teresa’s English Medium School, and St. Teresa’s Nursery School, Ernakulam
Early Life & Education
Teresa of St. Rose of Lima was born Mary Grace D’Lima on January 29, 1858, in George Town, Madras (now Chennai), India. She was the daughter of Peter D’Lima and Mary D’Lima. From a young age, she displayed a deep commitment to faith and education. She received her early schooling from the Presentation Sisters in George Town and later qualified as a teacher after completing the Schoolmistresses Test.
Journey into Education & Religious Life
Her teaching career began in 1875 at St. Xavier’s Free School, George Town, Madras. In 1879, she moved to Kerala and became the headmistress of St. Joseph’s School, Alleppey, where she dedicated herself to the cause of education.
Feeling a strong spiritual calling, she entered religious life in May 1882 under the guidance of Father Candidus. She received formation from the Carmelite Fathers and took her religious vows as a Carmelite Tertiary on May 25, 1885, at St. Joseph’s Convent, Alleppey.
A Visionary Leader in Education
Recognizing the need for quality education, particularly for girls, she founded:
- The Third Order of Our Lady of Mount Carmel (now the Institute of the Carmelite Sisters of Saint Teresa – CSST) on April 24, 1887, in Ernakulam.
- St. Teresa’s English Medium School for Girls on May 9, 1887.
- St. Teresa’s Nursery School, Ernakulam, to provide early childhood education in a nurturing and faith-based environment.
Her vision was to empower young minds with knowledge, discipline, and strong moral values, ensuring that children received a holistic education from their early years onward.
Legacy & Impact
Teresa of St. Rose of Lima, CSST, was not just an educator but a pioneer in social reform and women’s empowerment through education. The CSST congregation continues her mission, managing numerous educational institutions across India.
Her unwavering faith, commitment to service, and dedication to education transformed the lives of thousands, leaving an enduring legacy that continues to inspire generations.