Chapter Introduction –

The Legacy of Hélène de Chappotin

“…Many Sisters in Madurai, however, wrote to the superior general expressing concern about her decision. 9 The conflicts continued to defy resolution, and a member of the general council was sent as visitor to India to confront the Sisters about the situation. The visitor requested the Reparatrix Sisters to denounce Mary of the Passion, their former provincial, and her direction in the mission.…”

“…Facing Jesus, I found myself free to go; facing them, I did not feel free." 21 Her perception changed, strengthening her search for truth. Committed love for the church in Jesus Christ enabled Hélène to recognize that human actions influenced by lack of honesty or truth could not ultimately destroy the charity and truth which Jesus brought to earth.…”

“…Her experience in 1861 of God's presence committed Mary of the Passion throughout her life to offer herself unconditionally to God, "marking her vocation and her charism in a definitive manner, stamping it with a strong, original character, closely bound to the life of the Church." 40 This offering of oneself became foundational to the new missionary Institute's purpose of universal mission. The life Mary of the Passion embraced as a Reparatrix, her years in India, her fidelity to her conscience, and her loyalty to those who joined her in Ootacamund are concrete evidence of her growing consciousness of living this offering in the service of universal mission.…”