When and where were you born?
I was born in Kottayam, on 20 March , 1953, in the province of Kerala, India, in an ethnic community (Archdiocese of Kottayam, with personal jurisdiction) which traces its origin to the Babylonian exile. The migration took place in AD 345.
Memories of your childhood/family/upbringing/schooling?
My early education and upbringing was in a very Catholic surrounding; where the parish ran schools, a college and a hospital.
When/why did you decide to enter the Seminary?
Inspired by the lives of many good old priests, I decided to follow their example.
Memories of Seminary life?
Seminary life…sweet memories of theological formation, fresh after the second Vatican council with all its sincerity and honest approach towards a new understanding of Scripture, mission , approach to other World Religions and Ecumenism.
When and where were you ordained?
Ordained on 14, March 1978 at Kottayam, India.
What areas of ministry have you worked in since Ordination?
I have been working in parishes all along. However, I worked as Youth chaplain and as diocesan director of Pontifical Mission Union. I worked for 8 years in South Africa, in the diocese of Umtata. In 2003 I came to the Diocese of Sale, Gippsland, Victoria. Currently I am parish priest of Yarram and Foster parishes. I work also as Chaplain to the migrants and refugees in the diocese.
What have been the highlights of your ministry to date?
Walking with the migrants and refugees of Gippsland, my journey finds its track.
What challenges have you faced in your ministry and how have these been overcome (if at all)?
It is disappointing to find too many people disenchanted with the Church. The attending few express embarrassment at the reversal of the Second Vatican Council openness. There is no easy solution.
What is the best advice you would pass on to future seminarians?
I wish every seminarian imbibed the spirit of the second Vatican council.
What are your personal hopes for the future?
A third Vatican Council
What are your personal hopes for the future of the Church in Australia?
A church that resembles the early church.
Who has been the most influential person in your life?
My dad
What was the last book you read or movie you saw?
“The Authentic Gospel of Jesus” (Geza Vermes);”Truly our Sister” (Elizabeth A. Johnson). Movie : “Hurtlocker”
Your favourite travel destination?
Canada.
What hobbies/pastimes are important to you?
Reading; watching documentaries.
A bit of fun – what would you like to the inscription on your headstone to read?
“…me too passed this way…but once.”
