Faith Beyond Barriers: Visually Impaired Woman Proclaims Scripture at Easter Vigil

Ramanathapuram, April 8, 2026: In a poignant expression of faith and perseverance, a visually impaired woman moved the faithful during the Easter Vigil liturgy in the Diocese of Sivagangai, transforming a routine scripture reading into a powerful witness of hope.

Christy Rani, a member of a parish in Ramanathapuram, proclaimed the third reading of the Vigil using the Braille system, drawing deep attention from the congregation. As she approached the lectern, the church fell into a reverent silence, with the assembly listening intently to every word of Scripture she delivered with clarity and devotion.

Though initially hesitant to read before a large gathering, she found encouragement from her husband, Motcha Prakasam, who urged her to see the opportunity as a moment of witness. The couple later shared that while they could have recited the passage from memory, they deliberately chose to prepare and read it in Braille as an act of gratitude to God and as a sign of encouragement for others with visual impairments to overcome limitations and participate actively in community life.

The Easter Vigil was presided over by Fr. Sebastian, Secretary of Ananda College, who, in his homily, highlighted the deeper significance of the moment. Referring to Christy Rani’s proclamation, he remarked that such a testimony embodied “the true meaning of the Resurrection.”

Christy Rani and her husband, both visually impaired, serve as teachers under a special recruitment programme of the Tamil Nadu government. Despite limited access to the full Bible in Braille, they remain committed to their faith, often transcribing selected passages whenever called upon to read in church.

Fr. Singarayer, Vicar Forane of Ramanathapuram and parish priest, noted that the couple is part of a broader parish initiative to engage differently-abled members more actively in church life. He explained that small groups have been formed within the parish to ensure inclusion and participation, with Christy Rani and her family standing out for their dedication and involvement.

Despite living over five kilometres from the church, the couple participates regularly in parish activities, offering a quiet yet compelling witness of faith in action.

The impact of Christy Rani’s reading extended well beyond the liturgy, as parishioners expressed deep appreciation for what many described as a profoundly spiritual experience. In a celebration centred on the triumph of light over darkness, her proclamation gave living expression to the Gospel message, illuminating the power of faith that transcends all barriers.

By Abhishek Raja