Bengaluru: A beautiful high thanksgiving Mass on Friday marked the celebration of the 100th birthday of Mrs. Irudaya Mary in the presence of her family of five generations, friends, and well-wishers. Friends and family gathered at St Francis Xavier’s Cathedral in Cleveland Town, Bengaluru to wish her a happy birthday. She achieved a big milestone on Friday — turning 100 years old on February 23.
“I’ve got a huge family and it was just amazing to have all my children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren here with me today,” she gushed while acknowledging the many wishes that came her way.
“The number 23 has a special significance in her life,” said Fr Jude Santhosh while delivering his opening remarks. “Besides being born on the 23rd, another interesting aspect is that she has 23 grandchildren and an equal number of great-grandchildren!” he added.
It’s another blessing that her grandson Fr Christopher White, Parish Priest of the miraculous Shrine of St. Antony at Betada Halusru in Kanakapura taluk near Bengaluru was part of the celebration. In addition, the mass was attended by over 50 priests!
It was indeed heart-warming to see her walk up to the altar, bow in reverence and read the First Reading.
Retired Bishop of Kumbakonam, Peter Remigius, while wishing her well and blessing her recalled in his homily the life and times of Catherine of Siena, an Italian member of the Third Order of Saint Dominic in the Roman Catholic Church. Catherine was a mystic, activist, and author who had a great influence on Italian literature and on the Catholic Church.
The mass, attended by over 200 people, was beautifully animated by the family members of Mrs Irudaya Mary. The choir too was orchestrated by her family members.
After the mass, a grand reception was held at the King’s Court in the premises of Palace Grounds, Bengaluru. A large number of family, friends and well-wishers turned to seek her blessings.
Having faith in God, in addition to giving her hope, has also reduced stress and made her happy. Her faith has helped her get through each day.
To put things in a perspective for today’s generation, she has been a historical witness to India gaining Independence, and before that experienced two World Wars (Bangalore being the Military Cantonment back then), later during formation of Karnataka, and establishment of the Bangalore Diocese during the 1940s.
Bangalore Archbishop Dr Peter Machado attended the reception and felicitated her. Monsignor C Francis of the Bangalore Archdiocese also greeted her.
“We are lucky enough to be a part of her 100th birthday celebration. Reaching the 100th birthday is like breaking a sports record that has stood for decades. And it’s still a remarkable feat in life!” said a well-wisher at the event.
Thanks to Mrs. Irudaya, we got a glimpse into the life of a centurion – and what a life it is!