Priestly
Ordination of Fr. Mullasseril Jikson Varkey
17 April 2008
Rev. Mullasseril Jikson Varkey, son of the late Varkey and Annakutty, was
ordained a priest by his Lordship, Rev Mathew Anikuzhikattil, Bishop
of Idukki (India) on Thursday April 17, 2008 in the presence of Fr.
Varghese Gnalian, the SSP Provincial Superior. Many from the India-Nigeria
Province - priests, religious and laity – were present at the celebration.
Idukki, the land of spices and the home of Asia’s
biggest hydro-electric project, is one of the most beautiful hill-districts in
Kerala, India. This picturesque place is known for its landscapes, waterfalls
and natural beauty and is frequented by people from all over the world. As the
district of Idukki gives spices and charms the world with its exquisite scenic
beauty, the Society of St Paul is overjoyed and proud to have its first Pauline
priest from this great land.
In his homily, Bishop Mathew exhorted the
Paulines to be the creative users of media and to instill in the society and in
the families Gospel values and unity. He also reminded the families to strive to
live a committed Christian life by upholding the spirit of the Gospel and
bringing up children in faith. “Vocations,” he added, “are born and nurtured in
the families”.
The members present at the ordination thanked God
for the mighty work he has accomplished for the Paulines and for the vocation of
Fr. Mullaseril. They were definitely challenged by the words of Bishop Mathew to
be effective in the Church as communicators of His word - “St Paul alive today”.