09/30/2026
This past Friday, we were honored to welcome Sr. Lucy Kurien, founder of Maher Ashram in Pune, India.
Sr. Lucy and Shirly shared inspiring stories and updates about Maher’s ongoing growth and development - and offered a powerful reminder of what can happen when compassion, dignity, and sustainable, grassroots action come together.
Sr. Lucy founded Maher in 1997, beginning with the construction of a safe house in response to the devastating oppression and violence faced by women. Nearly three decades later, Maher has grown into a social-service organization serving thousands of people.
While Maher’s primary focus remains providing shelter, safety, and care for women and children in crisis, its work reaches far beyond its residential programs. Through grassroots initiatives in villages and slums, Maher supports education, microloan co-ops, and environmental sustainability, helping communities build greater stability and opportunity from within.
From its beginning, Maher has stood firmly for women’s rights and an end to the acceptance of violence against women. Its commitment to serving people across religious and cultural traditions is at the heart of its steadfastly interfaith approach.
Sr. Lucy also founded the Interfaith Association for Service to Humanity and Nature, reflecting her belief that meaningful change is rooted in love, respect, community, and care for our shared world.
We are grateful for the opportunity to learn from Sr. Lucy and to hear firsthand about Maher’s remarkable work. Her life and service remind us that creating a more just and sustainable world begins with seeing one another’s humanity—and responding with love.
