Mariam Thresia Chiramel was an Indian Syro-Malabar Catholic nun who lived from 1876 to 1926. Born in Puthenchira, in what is now Kerala, she dedicated her life to religious service and apostolic work. She is primarily recognized as the foundress of the Congregation of the Holy Family, an order she established in 1914. Throughout her life, she was noted for her deep piety, her involvement with impoverished families, and the reported reception of the stigmata, which she kept private.
Life and ministry
Following the death of her mother, Thresia focused on prayer and contemplation. After exploring different religious paths, she founded her own congregation in 1914, serving as its first superior. Her ministry centered on helping poor families and maintaining strict religious discipline within her order. She died in 1926 in Kuzhikattussery due to complications from a leg wound and diabetes.
Veneration
The Catholic Church recognized her heroic virtues, leading to her beatification by Pope John Paul II in 2000. She was later canonized by Pope Francis in 2019. Her status as a saint is supported by reported miracles, including the inexplicable healing of a child with congenital physical deformities. She is commemorated on June 8.