- 03 June, 2026
Vijayawada, June 3, 2026: Sr. Philo Varghese, 76, originally from Thrissur, Kerala, and a member of the Congregation of the Sisters of St. Ann (CSSA), died after collapsing near the exit of Platform 1 at Vijayawada Railway Station on June 3 while returning from her native state by train.
According to Sr. Teresa, former superior of the congregation's community in Vijayawada, Sr. Philo had informed the sisters a day earlier that she was travelling back from Kerala. The community had offered to arrange transportation from the station, but she declined.
“We told her that we would send a vehicle to pick her up from the station, but she said she had no luggage and could come by herself,” Sr. Teresa recalled.
Sr. Philo arrived at Vijayawada by train and was near the station exit when she suddenly collapsed. Members of the congregation were informed of the incident and rushed to the station.
“We received a call informing us that a sister had collapsed at the railway station. We immediately went there,” Sr. Teresa said.
According to Sr. Teresa, Sr. Philo passed away between 12 noon and 12:30 p.m. Police officials arrived at the scene and initiated the required procedures. Following police formalities, the body was taken for examination.
The examination confirmed that the cause of death was cardiac arrest.
A retired teacher, Sr. Philo was known among the sisters for her deep prayer life and commitment to religious life.
“She was a very prayerful person and was deeply devoted to her vocation,” Sr. Teresa said.
Earlier this year, Sr. Philo had been appointed superior of the Vijayawada community and was yet to formally assume charge. According to Sr. Teresa, the appointment would have marked her second term as superior.
“She had been appointed superior again this year, but she had not yet taken charge,” Sr. Teresa said.
The congregation is making arrangements for her funeral and has requested prayers for the repose of her soul.
By Catholic Connect Reporter
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