Out of the darkness Oh Lord, you called me -to live my life as a Handmaid of your Heart. Here I am Lord… your Handmaid… surrendered… committed… to love and to serve.

My life journey as a Handmaid of the sacred Heart of Jesus is fulfilling, joyous and fruitful. It is 30 years since I said “Yes” to the Lord. Ever since the Lord has been at my side, both in good times and in not so good times. He has been my strength, my fortress and my stronghold. Walking with Him has been a challenging, yet strengthening experience of growth. Most of my life was spent being with the special children. They taught me the great lessons of life. The first lesson was to accept myself with my strength and weakness. They also taught me to care for others, to do everything possible to make others happy and above all to forgive and to reconcile. Relating with them has transformed me from within. I thank the Lord for this opportunity, where I learned to give love and to receive love.

My consecrated life has been a free gift from God. Perseverance till today is a grace. It is the Eucharistic presence of Jesus that sustained me through ups and downs. At all times I was strongly convinced of God’s personal choice for me.

The happiest and significant event in my life was my first vows. The day I consecrated myself to God totally and promised Him to live chaste, poor and obedient.

To be a Handmaid of His heart is a unique experience. It demands detachment, self sacrifice; surrender above all availability to God’s plan in my life. This in turn gives me great joy and fulfillment in my life.

Sr.Marina Kanikal Aci 

Happy Birthday Sr.Marina!!!