Gengapattu

History of St. Louis Convent, Gengapattu

St. Louis Convent in Gengapattu was established in 1972 in response to an invitation from Most Rev. Dr. Anthony Muthu, the Bishop of Vellore Diocese, and with the permission of Most Rev. Archbishop Ambrose of the Pondicherry Diocese. The convent began with three sisters: Rev. Sr. Swakin Mary (Superior), Rev. Sr. Stanislaus, and Rev. Sr. Gose Masthin. These pioneering sisters dedicated themselves to various ministries, including medical, educational, and evangelization work. Initially, they lived in a small hut within the church campus while serving the community with great commitment.

The foundation of the convent was blessed by Most Rev. Mgr. Lazar on 9th June 1972, and the formal inauguration took place on 25th May 1974, when it was blessed and opened by Most Rev. Dr. Anthony Muthu, the Bishop of Vellore Diocese. The sisters began their medical ministry by establishing a dispensary to serve the sick and needy people in the region. Additionally, they were deeply involved in evangelization, teaching catechism, and participating in various pastoral activities in the parish and its substations.

In 2019, the convent building was renovated under the leadership of Rev. Sr. Lilly Grace, the Provincial Superior, with the support of Most Rev. Dr. Soundara Raju, the Bishop of Vellore. The renovation included the blessing of the Rosary Conference Hall. Furthering their commitment to social welfare, Rev. Sr. Arockiamary started a tailoring institution on 15th December 2020 to support the welfare of women, with the help of Rev. Sr. Rajamani, the Superior General, and Rev. Sr. Lilly Grace, the Provincial Superior.

Today, the ministry of St. Louis Convent spans across medical care, evangelization, education, and the welfare of women. The convent continues to serve as a beacon of hope, providing essential services to the local community while empowering women through skill development and education.

The first members of the community, Rev. Sr. Swakin Mary, Rev. Sr. Stanislaus, and Rev. Sr. Gose Masthin, laid the foundation for the convent's enduring legacy of service, and their work continues to inspire the present-day mission.