Congregation of Jesus Mary Joseph
(JMJ)
01 Nov 2026 - 30 Nov 2026
This article explores the beautiful continuity between the two chapters of Autobiography of Australia’s Gift to India, ‘Childhood Graces’ and ‘Her Colourful Personality’, which reveals how the virtues nurtured in childhood gradually blossomed into a remarkable personality marked by holiness, humility, compassion, wisdom and selfless service. The chapter ‘Childhood Graces’ provides the foundation for understanding the qualities that later became so evident in ‘Her Colourful Personality’. Her childhood virtues were not isolated traits; they matured through life's experiences into a way of living that touched everyone around her.
Humility and simplicity blossomed into self-forgetfulness
In her childhood, Mary Glowrey showed simplicity, humility and a sincere desire to do God's will. These qualities matured into a remarkable humility in her later life. As described in ‘Her Colourful Personality’, she accepted correction without argument, smiled rather than retaliating, and left a lasting impression on others through her gentle response. Her wisdom was not accompanied by pride; she used her abilities in the service of others. Even when she was hurt, she did not allow resentment to take root. Her humility became a source of inner strength and self-mastery.
A spirit of service grew into compassionate care
The spirit of service and hard work evident in her childhood developed into a lifelong commitment to caring for others. As a doctor and religious sister, Mary Glowrey was deeply concerned about the physical and emotional well-being of her fellow sisters and patients.
courtesy: https://maryglowrey.org.au
She shared their joys and sorrows and her love extended even to their families. For Mary, love of God was inseparable from love of people; her spirituality found expression in practical kindness, generous service and forgetfulness of self.
Love for God became love for every person
Mary's childhood desire for holiness and closeness to God gradually found expression in her relationships with people. Her spirituality was not confined only to prayer or religious observances; it became a practical love that embraced everyone. She sought to imitate the life of Nazareth through love for God, love for humanity and forgetfulness of self. The goodness cultivated in childhood became a way of life, earning her the reputation of being ‘a living saint’ among her sisters.
Openness to learning developed into wisdom and sound judgment
Her childhood openness to learning helped her grow into a woman of knowledge, intelligence and practical wisdom. In her later life, she demonstrated sound judgment and a remarkable ability to handle situations with maturity. Her medical knowledge, experience and wisdom enabled her to guide others effectively. When an untrained assistant helped her at the beginning of her medical practice in Guntur, Mary responded with understanding and patience despite the difficulties caused by the assistant's limited knowledge of English. She could appreciate the humour of such situations without humiliating anyone. Her knowledge was, therefore, accompanied by kindness, patience and a readiness to help others grow.
Prayerful discernment became courageous dedication
The childhood grace of seeking God's will developed into a life of courageous commitment to her vocation. Mary did not separate her faith from her professional responsibilities. She blended her medical expertise, religious dedication and missionary spirit in the service of suffering people, especially women. Her willingness to accept responsibilities and persevere in difficulties demonstrated that her life was guided by a purpose greater than personal comfort or recognition. Her childhood desire to follow God matured into an enduring dedication to God's mission.
Sensitivity of heart blossomed into kindness and forgiveness
Mary's sensitivity to God's presence and her desire to live a virtuous life were reflected in her tender-heartedness. Although she could be quick-tempered by nature, she was willing to correct herself when she realised that she had hurt someone. She did not allow personal weakness to determine her conduct. When an unkind word brought tears to her eyes, she soon recovered her cheerfulness and did not harbour resentment. Her ability to forgive, forget personal hurts and continue relating warmly to others reveals a heart continually being shaped by love.
Gratitude and family influence matured into a life of joyful relationships
The early guidance and values she received in childhood helped her form a personality that valued relationships and the happiness of others. As a mature religious sister, Mary was cheerful, welcoming and capable of enjoying recreation. She could share a joke, greet others warmly and create an atmosphere of ease and joy. Her cheerfulness was not superficial; it sprang from a generous heart that delighted in the good of others. Even amid the demands of medical service and religious life, she retained a childlike simplicity and warmth.
courtesy: https://maryglowrey.org.au
Conclusion
Mary Glowrey's colourful personality was the fruit of childhood graces faithfully nurtured throughout her life. Her story reminds us that the small virtues cultivated in childhood can become great strengths when they are rooted in love for God and expressed in loving service to others. Her life invites each of us to recognise the graces we have received and allow them to grow into a personality that radiates holiness, compassion, humility and joy.
(Autobiography of Australia’s gift to India, Sr. Mary of the Sacred Heart. JMJ)
Sr. Kochumary Chellakudam
Vice-postulator
Cause of Canonization of Venerable Mary Glowrey