Nava Jyothi Illam, meaning “House of New Light”, is a vibrant community of the Guanellian Sisters (Daughters of St. Mary of Providence), established within the sacred grounds of St. Mary’s Basilica Shrine, Shivajinagar, Bangalore.

The Sisters were invited by Rev. Fr. Victor of the Bangalore Diocese(was serving in United States) to begin their ministry in a house belonging to his brother Mr. Bosco, located on the second floor of a building just behind the Shrine. The sisters began their mission of social service by offering tuition classes, catechism for adults and youth, care for the poor and elderly, and parish assistance, including Mass booking and working at the parish reception.

​

The community was officially inaugurated on February 11, 2008, marking the beginning of a meaningful Guanellian presence in this historic and spiritually rich parish. The initial team included Sr. Betci, Sr. Lawrence, and Sr. Mary Stella Amalorpavam. The first formal community was later formed with Sr. Betci Clara Moses (Superior), Sr. Esther, and Sr. Maria Claudia.

​

In June 2011, following the termination of Service of the Sisters of the Immaculate Heart of Mary (Pondi Blue Sisters) in the Shrine, Fr. Antony Swamy, with permission from the then Archbishop Most Rev. Bernard Moras, facilitated the relocation of the community inside the Shrine campus, adjacent to the Adoration Chapel. This move deepened the sisters’ presence and engagement within the life of the parish. 

​​

Our Mission at St. Mary’s Basilica

The Sisters of Nava Jyothi Illam are actively involved in both pastoral and catechetical ministries, collaborating closely with parish clergy and laity.

 

Their areas of service include:

 

Parish Responsibilities

• Managing the parish office reception and assisting with Mass bookings

• Serving in the Sacristy, preparing for liturgical celebrations

• Leading Catechism classes for children and adults

• Providing counselling and emotional support to individuals and families

• Distributing Holy Communion during Mass and visiting the sick

​

Faith Enrichment Activities

As a spiritual presence within St. Mary’s Basilica, the Sisters contribute meaningfully to various devotional and liturgical events, including:

• Catechetical preparation for Baptism, First Holy Communion, and Marriage

• Eucharistic Procession every Saturday

• Daily Holy Rosary Procession and Benediction

• Divine Mercy Prayer every day at 3:00 PM

• Vigil Night Prayers on the first and third Saturdays in local languages

• Novena and festive celebrations for the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the parish’s principal feast, with nine days of special prayers, Masses, Adoration, and Confession

• Supporting the parish choir and participating in liturgical music and celebrations

​

Community Outreach

Rooted in the charism of St. Louis Guanella, the Sisters extend Christ’s love and presence to the wider community through:

• Home visits, especially to the sick and elderly

• Offering comfort, encouragement, and spiritual guidance

• Assisting the poor and needy, with compassionate and generous service

 

Our Mission

At Nava Jyothi Illam, the sisters are committed to sharing the light of Christ through compassionate service, joyful presence, and active participation in the life of the Church. Guided by the spirit of our Founder, St. Louis Guanella keeping in mind the motto, “To Jesus through Mary “. The sisters strive to be instruments of God’s Providence in the heart of Bangalore—bringing hope, faith, and love to all whom they encounter.