My memories and life experiences with Rev. Fr. Niclavose Punnackal C.Ss.R. go back to our days in the seminary
starting from Chowara, Nitya Sahaya Matha Bhavan and going
for mission preaching in parishes and schools. From the young
age of 16 when he first entered the seminary, he has been a
model of virtue, duty and holiness. Jesus’ life was centered
around his prayer to the Father and encountering people.
Likewise, a priest’s heart should be rooted firmly in the Lord,
warmed by the Holy Spirit, open and available to our brothers
and sisters. Knowing Fr. Niclavose all these years, I think he
was trying to accomplish that. No one is excluded from his
heart, his prayers or his smile. I am immensely grateful to have
had the opportunity to go for missions with Fr. Niclavose. I
saw him captivating people with his gifted voice and prayerful
presence. It confirms our Lord’s words in Luke 16:10, “He
who is faithful in little, I will make master of much.”
Congratulations and best wishes for being a faithful
servant of God and Holy Redeemer Jesus. May you
be blessed with the Lord’s peace and love as you
continue your priestly ministry in the years to
come. As you mark your year of Jubilee, may
you celebrate in joy, thanksgiving and peace.
Wishing you many more happy and healthy
years ahead in your consecrated life in the
Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer.
Fr. Saju Oreethaparambil, CSsR
