It is with sadness that we announce the death of two major pillars of the Oxford Mission.
Mother Susila, founder of the Christa Sevika Sangha died on Monday 16th May. Despite suffering from illness for many years she was the mainstay of the movement, and of the Oxford Mission's activities in Bangladesh. Much loved within the community in which she lived and abroad, Mother devoted her life to the poor. She will be sorely missed by the sisters and the communities in Barisal and Jobapar in particular. However, she leaves a legacy and organisation that we are sure will continue to expand her work with love, amongst the poor of Bangladesh.
On the morning of 18 May 2011 the Brethren and Sisters said their divine offices mattins, prime and mass in the church. At 9:30 to 10:30 there was prayer and tributes led by Fr. Francis, Rev. Manoroma Mitra and Rev. Sudotta Baidya.
At 7.00 a.m. on 19 May 2011 there was a celebration of mass. After the mass Mother Susila's body was buried in the CSS graveyard attached to the chapel (to the west of the chapel).
We ask you to pray for her soul and for the sisters and Mission in Bangladesh so that the work can continue to grow in God's grace.
Only a short while before Mother Susila died, John Corrie, well known in India as well as the UK, died peacefully at home, aged 85, on 24 April 2011. John has been a member of the UK Committee of the Oxford Mission since 1969, and became Chairman in 1980, a post he held until 2006. His knowledge of India, the Mission, and his abundant experience has been a great support to both UK and the Mission in India and Bangladesh. His wisdom will be much missed.
John's funeral took place at St Paul's Church, Winchester on Tuesday, 10th May at 2.30 pm.
We ask you to pray for his departed soul and also for his family at this time.