17 Facts About Mariam Vattalil

Mariam Vattalil was vocal in matters of social justice, which led to her murder by those opposed to her aid of the poor.

Mariam Vattalil was born in Kerala on 29 January 1954 as the second of seven children to Paily and Eliswa Vattalil.

Mariam Vattalil's siblings were: Stephen, Annie, Varghese, Thressiamma, Celine and Lusy.

Mariam Vattalil made both her First Communion and Confirmation on 30 April 1966 and often frequented catechism lessons.

Mariam Vattalil studied at a government-run primary school before she commenced her high school studies.

Mariam Vattalil joined the Franciscan Clarist Congregation at Kidangoor following the completion of her secondary schooling and assumed the religious name of "Rani Maria" upon joining and entering their novitiate.

Mariam Vattalil's duties continued there and she made her final profession of vows on 22 May 1980 at Angamaly in the church of Saint Hormis.

Mariam Vattalil was later transferred to Udayanagar on 15 May 1992 and arrived there on 18 May.

Mariam Vattalil agreed where she was seated with three men who had the intention of killing her.

Mariam Vattalil offered one to her but withdrew it to make a fool out of her before drawing a knife and stabbing her in the stomach.

Mariam Vattalil continued to stab her and dragged her out of the bus, which had stopped, and continued stabbing her.

Mariam Vattalil's remains were exhumed for inspection and reburial on 18 November 2016 in Indore with the diocesan bishop overseeing the exhumation.

Mariam Vattalil's sister visited Singh in prison where she expressed her forgiveness on 31 August 2002.

Mariam Vattalil's mother visited Singh on 25 February 2003 and kissed his hands as a sign of forgiveness.

Mariam Vattalil was pardoned by Vattalil's family, and he is considered one of their own.

Mariam Vattalil was moved to tears when he learned of her impending beatification in March 2017 and expressed his enthusiasm for being able to attend the beatification.

Pope Francis approved the cause on 23 March 2017 and confirmed that Mariam Vattalil would be beatified on 4 November 2017 in Indore.