Mother Veronica of the Passion, nee’ Sophie Leeves (1823-1906), the Foundress of the Apostolic Carmel Congregation, was a valiant and a remarkable woman whose life was a testament to her unwavering faith and dedication to God’s calling.
Sophie Leeves was born on 1st October,1823 at Constantinople. She grew up in a devout Anglican family. Her spiritual journey led her to the Catholic Church, where she was baptized on the 2nd February 1850, taking the name Veronica. After joining the Sisters of St. Joseph of the Apparition, her desire for a more contemplative life led her to the Carmel of Pau where she imbibed the spirit of Carmel. Under the guidance of her spiritual director, Fr. Marie Ephrem OCD, she discerned her call to found the Apostolic Carmel on July 16, 1868, in Bayonne, France.
Mother Veronica envisioned blending contemplative prayer with apostolic work, inspired by Carmelite spirituality. She emphasized prayer, solitude and community living while addressing urgent needs in the missionary church, particularly quality Catholic education for girls and works of mercy. She instilled in her community the spirit of obedience, humility, mortification and prayer. Although poor, her community thrived on charity, communion and joy with a strong desire to serve in India.
Three years later when Apostolic Carmel was firmly established on Indian soil, she returned to the Carmel of Pau, making the Apostolic Carmel the special object of her prayers and affection. Her life of loving surrender to God under challenging circumstances culminated in her holy death on 16 November, 1906.
