Sisters of the Queen of the Apostles Convent, Vamanjoor

The SRA Convent in Vamanjoor was established as part of the congregation’s vision to decentralize and effectively administer religious formation in India following the Second Vatican Council. In 1969, the SRA General Chapter at Vienna decided to restructure its regions. Accordingly, the southern region — covering Karnataka, Kerala, and parts of Bombay — was formed.

Recognizing the growing number of vocations, the need for a second novitiate in the South was seen. After initial efforts and temporary stays, the foundation for the novitiate house at Vamanjoor was laid by Rev. Fr Edwin C. Pinto on 31st October 1972. The Bethany Sisters’ former residence was made suitable to accommodate the postulants.

The Novitiate building was partially completed and blessed on 28th November 1976 by Bishop Basil S. D’Souza. Eight novices made their first commitment in the newly built chapel on 8th December 1976. Rev. Sr Aquilina Schwödiauër, the architect and planner, designed the structure with long-term stability in mind.

Key Structures Added

  • New Chapel (blessed in July 1978)
  • Chaplain’s quarters foundation (March 1979)
  • Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto (December 1979)

To serve the local community, the sisters began pastoral outreach, using the convent chapel for liturgy until the parish church was built. On 1st July 1982, the Dharma Jyothi Social Centre was canonically recognized and blessed. Sr Maria Goretti Quadros was appointed as its first in-charge. The centre engaged in:

  • Social service
  • Health care
  • Educational assistance
  • Self-help groups
  • TB awareness and other outreach programs

A new wing of the centre was opened on 6th July 1988.

Responding to growing educational needs, the sisters started Vidya Jyothi School. Its foundation was laid on 1st May 2002 and inaugurated on 15th December 2002, eventually becoming a full-fledged high school.

Today, the sisters also serve in the Diocesan Aided School and are involved in catechism, youth ministry, sodality, BCCs, women’s empowerment, and liturgical activities.

The Vamanjoor convent continues to be the “Power House” of the Southern Province and a place of spiritual renewal for all SRA sisters. It is now led by Sr Leena VJ, carrying forward the legacy and mission of the SRA congregation.