On 2 February, the funeral of Suor Ambrosia Portelli, whose soul departed this earth the day before at the age of 82 years, was held.

Suor Ambrosia belonged to the Congregation of Franciscan Sisters of the Sacred Heart. She received her solemn vows at the age of 24 years. Her native name was Coronata and was born on 13 October, 1922, in Nadur, Gozo.

She spent 40 years doing missionary work in Ethopia. Her last years were spent at the Mother House in Palm Street, Victoria. Her missionary spirit kept her enthused and she enjoyed the respect of the members of the Congregation and lay people alike. She committed her full self towards the poor people of Ethopia.

She reluctantly had to give up her missionary work for good due to her health. This reflected every time the country of Ethopia was mentioned to her.

The nuns of the Congregation manifested their deep sorrow for her departure. They expressed their admiration towards Suor Ambrosia and admitted that she always projected simplicity and joviality, the ingredients of a true Franciscan nun. She kept herself a low profile and often showed gratitude towards anyone who looked after her.

All these attributes were confirmed during the eloquent homily delivered by the concelebrant, Mgr Carmelo Scicluna, the Chaplain for the Franciscan nun Community in Gozo, during the mass presentae cadavarae. He exposed her good qualities including her scrupulous obedience of the Commandments and her love towards others.

Mgr Scicluna said he feels confident that Suor Ambrosia is already in God’s embrace since she always endeavoured to keep the flickering of the lamp light by means of her good deeds.

The first scripture was read by her niece Ms Pauline Attard. She assisted her aunt, together with the rest of the Franciscan Community, until her death.

The second reading was read by Suor Rose Azzopardi. Suor Cecilia Vella led the congregation and Suor Francesca Abela played the organ during the mass. The offertory was led by the deceased’s brother, Emmanuel, and another niece, Ms Stella Cremona.

Towards the end of the mass, the general secretary to the Franciscan Community, Suor Josephine Attard, read a message by the Mother General of the Franciscan Congregation, Suor M. Anselmina Mifsud since the latter could not attend due to unforeseen circumstances.

The Provincial Mother, Bertilla Bartolo, was also present.

Following the mass, Suor Ambrosia was buried in the grave held by the Franciscan Community at the Santa Marija cemetery in Xewkija.

I would like to offer my deep condolences to the Franciscan Community and to Suor Ambrosia’s family.

Charles Spiteri

GHAJNSIELEM