We are delighted to share the joyful news that on 21 November 2025, the Dicastery for the Causes of Saints, with the approval of Pope Leo XIV, officially declared Dr. Sr. Mary of the Sacred Heart (Mary Glowrey), JMJ, as Venerable.

Venerable Mary of the Sacred Heart Glowrey, JMJ (1887–1957), lived a life of quiet heroism and deep faith, leaving an enduring legacy for us. Born on 23 June 1887 in Birregurra, Victoria, Australia, she graduated as a medical doctor (MBBS) from the University of Melbourne in 1910, and later earned her MD in 1919, specialising in obstetrics, gynaecology, and ophthalmology.

In response to a profound calling, Mary Glowrey left Australia on 21 January 1920, arriving in Guntur, India, on 11 February 1920. That same year, on 28 November 1920, she joined the Society of Jesus Mary Joseph (JMJ) and adopted the name Sister Mary of the Sacred Heart.

After completing her novitiate, she made her first (temporary) vows, and in 1922 began practising as a nun-doctor in Guntur a rare and pioneering role. On 29 November 1924, she made her perpetual profession in Guntur. For 37 years, she dedicated herself to serving the poorest of the poor, especially women and children, building a dispensary that grew into St Joseph’s Hospital, Guntur and training local nurses, midwives, and pharmacists.

In 1943, Sr Mary founded the Catholic Hospitals’ Association (now the Catholic Health Association of India, CHAI), laying the foundation for a national network of compassionate healthcare. She bore her final years with great faith, even in suffering: diagnosed with cancer, she accepted her illness with serenity and humility. She passed away on 5 May 1957 in Bangalore, India.

Her life inspires us deeply: Mary Glowrey reminds us that holiness can be translated into healing hands, compassionate service, and courageous self-surrender. She teaches us that a disciple of Christ is called not just to pray, but to act - to bring God’s mercy into the world through love and service. As JMJ Sisters, we look to her example as a guiding star: with professionalism, faith, and simplicity, we too can touch lives and build God’s kingdom in hidden yet powerful ways.

Reference:
https://www.causesanti.va/it/venerabili/maria-del-sacro-cuore-al-secolo-mary-glowrey.html