Ms. Savithri Sankaran
Former student, staff and HOD of Maths dept.
I am reminded of Kabir Das' Doha which will be a fitting tribute to Sr. Juliana:
“Guru Govid Dovu Khadey Kakey Lagun Pai Balihari Guru Apne Govind Diyo Bataye”
The teacher and god, both are standing in front of me. Whom will I worship first?
It is the teacher through whom I came to know the existence of God.
Sr. Juliana Xavier was my saviour, guru, guide and friend. She was very simple, humble and unassuming. She led a pious and saintly life. In her spotless white dress and a gracious smile on her face, she was none other than the Florence Nightingale of the Stella Maris campus.
Nearly for two decades she was the head of the Maths Dept. Under her stewardship, all members remained united in their endeavor. She knew each student's name and she also had established a good rapport with everyone. She tried her best to help the poor and needy students. Students who were weak in mathematics were tutored by her after college hours. Many benefited and got through the exams with good marks.
She was a pillar of strength for staff and students. She was always there to share the sorrow and grieve at their pain. She encouraged and instilled confidence and empowered every single woman she came across. She gave strength and perseverance to every one through prayer and silent contemplation of God.
She spent her last 10 years in mercy home, where she ministered to the poor, sick, orphaned and dying. It gave her satisfaction and peace.
In my personal life, she was more than a mother to me. She always stood by me in all my trials and tribulations, sorrows and miseries.
She threw me a life jacket when I needed it the most. She gave me wings and instilled hope and faith. She always included me and my family in her prayers and increased my faith.
Leaving for her heavenly abode sister has left a great void not only in Franciscan community but also in all Stella Marians. I pray to God that her spirit will continue to guide everyone.
