The Pillar of SAL Social Apostolate:
Mother Walburga Schmid
“We believe that the name ‘Angel of Mercy’ confirms our call for a mission” – Fr. Wilhelm Meyer
German born Mother Walburga Schmid came to India on October 19, 1932 and worked tirelessly for the SAL Vijayawada province for a period of 49 years. She was one of the Swiss Pioneers whose tireless work will forever be beholden by the citizens of Jaggayyapet.
During her time in India, she oversaw the construction of many houses for the poor. She also played an important part in establishing the Leprosarium which came about during her early days in India. She noticed that people suffering from leprosy were treated as ‘untouchables’, and made to live on the outskirts of the village. One particular time, when the village was flooded, she found that these lepers were living knee-deep in flood waters and were without food for 3 days. Moved with compassion on witnessing their pathetic state of life, she started plans to start a leprosarium to help these poor souls.
She also started a Balwadi (local name meaning pre-school) in Jaggayyapeta, for the welfare of the slum dwellers, tailoring facilities for young women, and a boarding home for girls from nearby rural areas. She is fondly remembered by the local people as ‘Mother Theresa of Jaggayyapeta.’
Mother Walburga Schmide’s birthday which falls on April 28th is commemorated annually as Social Apostolate Day by SAL.
