-Prof.Peter Archibald Furtado
Glorious Tribute to Sr Mable Goveas — A Life of Grace, Dedication, and Unwavering Love
In the gentle embrace of March 2025, Sr Mable Goveas celebrated her 80th birthday — a milestone in the life of a rare and radiant soul whose journey left a deep imprint on countless hearts. A woman of prayer, purpose, and profound humility, Sr Mable remains one of the most cherished and admired personalities to have walked the sacred grounds of Barkur’s Immaculate Heart of Mary Convent and served at Maryknoll High School.
As a graduate teacher, she was not just an educator but a true mentor who taught with compassion and discipline. Her students adored her for her fairness, her encouragement, and the values she instilled both inside and beyond the classroom walls. But it was her unique and affectionate bond with the CYM Barkur that truly stood out — a connection that transcended generations, founded on mutual love and respect.
The memories remain vivid of December 1986, when CYM Barkur celebrated its Decennial with grandeur across three memorable days — the 12th, 13th, and 14th — a first of its kind event in the then undivided Diocese of Mangalore. Sr Mable stood among the proudest, her joy reflected in the presence of ex-members gathered under the SPCYA banner. Remarkably, even years after leaving Barkur, she remembered every CYM member by name — a testament to the depth of her care and personal touch.
In December 2002, she once again graced the Silver Jubilee celebrations of CYM — her joy, as many observed, surpassing even that of the active members of the time. Her presence lit up the event, her words inspired, and her gentle smile reassured everyone that true love and service never fade with time.
Sr Mable possessed an extraordinary ability to recognize talent in the youth and children — encouraging, nurturing, and celebrating each spark she encountered. She believed in building people up, in affirming their worth, and her words often became the wind beneath many wings.
Later, as Headmistress in Karkala and beyond, she carried her quiet charisma, her deep spirituality, and her unwavering commitment wherever she went. Even in her final years, despite her failing health, she spoke fondly and hopefully of being part of ICYM’s Golden Jubilee in 2026 — a dream she sadly could not fulfill, for God's plans, as we know, are often beyond our understanding.
Sr Mable Goveas breathed her last peacefully, leaving behind not just memories, but a legacy of love, chastity, and charity. Heaven certainly rejoiced to receive a soul so pure, so devoted. Those of us who were blessed to know her — as students, youth, colleagues, or friends — will always remember her as a beacon of light, a pillar of faith, and a heart full of grace.
Thank you, dear Sr Mable. Your life was your message, and that message will continue to echo in our lives. You are deeply missed, but even more deeply admired.
May your soul rest in the eternal peace of the Lord you so faithfully served. 🙏