Claretian Missionaries

Karukutty: Under the Prefecture Youth Ministry of St. Thomas Province, Clareteens Meet 2025 was conducted at St. Xavier’s School, Peechanikadu, bringing together students from three schools - LFPS Kollamula, St. Claret School Vythiri, and St. Xavier’s School Peechanikadu. With the motto “Burn to Shine,” the three-day gathering witnessed the participation of about 200 students from classes 7 and 8. The meet was inaugurated by Fr. Siby Njavallikunnel, the Provincial Superior, in the presence of fathers, teachers, and well-wishers. The program featured sessions, activities, group dynamics, discussions, DG Night, and campfire, creating a vibrant atmosphere of learning and friendship. The event concluded with a solemn Valedictory Function, highlighted by the lowering of the flags and the ceremonial handing over of the common flag by host principal Fr. Kannamkunnel to Fr. Madapattu, principal of the next host school. The meet came to a joyful and emotional close with lunch and the dispersal of participants, marking a huge success in the Clareteens journey.

Santhwana Rehabilitation Center, Puthenthope: The Onam celebrations at Santhwana Rehabilitation Center, Puthenthope, were held on 2 September 2025, with the participation of more than 500 people, including dignitaries, neighbors, and well-wishers. The event was blessed with the presence of Fr. Siby Njavallikunnel CMF, Provincial Superior, Fr. Alexander Kureekkattil CMF, the founding father of Santhwana, Fr. Sabi Kochukunnel CMF, former director, Fr. Muthappan Appoli, parish priest of St. Ignatius Church, Puthenthope, Mr. Prinston D’Cruz, ward member, Fr. Sunny S.J., Manager of Loyola College, Thumba, and Mrs. Reetha Nikson, ward member of Vettuthura, among others. The celebrations included cultural programs presented by the inmates of the center as well as children from the neighborhood. A traditional Onam meal was served to all participants. On the occasion, a special song titled “Theruvinte Pakshigal” was also released on Santhwana’s YouTube channel (Santhwana Puthenthope).

Santhwana, Puthenthope: The first copy of Claretian Jyothi was released during the Onam celebrations at Santhwana Rehabilitation Center, Puthenthope. The magazine was published by Fr. Siby Njavallikunnel CMF, Provincial Superior of St. Thomas Province, and received by Fr. Alexander Kureekkattil CMF on 2 September 2025. This special issue focuses entirely on the missions and ministries at the rehabilitation center for the specially abled at Puthenthope. It highlights the history of the center, features an interview with the founding father Fr. Alexander, and includes several touching sharings from the people associated with it. The title of the magazine is “Meals in Leaves, Becoming the Gospel Message,” symbolizing how the simple food offered by ordinary people carries a deeper message of love, sharing, and Gospel values. The publication also presents a wide range of articles and new insights connected to the life and mission of the center.

Santhwana, Puthenthope: On 15th September 2025, a simple yet meaningful function was held at Santhwana, Puthenthope to mark the release of the book Dhaivam Kaipidichu Nadathiya Vicariachan (The vicar who was guided by God’s hand), authored by Rev. Fr. Thomas Varakukalayil CMF. The inspiring book recounts Fr. Thomas’s pastoral journey as Parish Priest of St. Sebastian’s Church, Vettampara, highlighting the divine interventions and blessings that shaped his ministry. Reflecting the spirit of humility, the book was released by Mrs. Thressiama Mathai, the staff of Santhwana, and the first copy was received by Mr. Anooj Ashokan, an inmate of Santhwana. The occasion was graced by the presence of Rev. Fr. Siby Njavallikunnel CMF, Provincial Superior, Fr. George Thelliankal CMF, Superior of Santhwana Community, and Fr. Jose Muthuplackal CMF, Director of Santhwana, who felicitated the author. In his heartfelt response, Fr. Thomas Varakukalayil CMF expressed deep gratitude to all present for their encouragement and support. This publication is poised to serve as a source of spiritual enrichment and motivation, offering readers a profound glimpse into the power of faith and divine guidance in the life of a priest.

Karukutty: Over a million Catholic youths from 146 countries gathered in Rome from July 28 to August 3, 2025, for the Jubilee of Young People—part of the Jubilee Year celebrations. The event culminated in a prayer vigil and Mass with Pope Leo at Tor Vergata, featuring music, prayer, and a Q&A with the Pope. Activities also took place at St. Peter’s Basilica and the Circus Maximus. The Claretians played an active role in the Jubilee of Young People by organizing a group of 500 youths from 30 different countries. On August 28, these young Claretian participants gathered at the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Mary (Sacro Cuore di Maria) for a special day of celebration. The event was filled with vibrant moments of sharing, interactive games, and concluded with a solemn Holy Eucharist, fostering a strong sense of unity and joy among the participants. In the days that followed, the Claretian youth joined the larger gathering of over a million young Catholics from around the world who had come to Rome for the Jubilee. Together, they participated in the various events held across the city, including the final vigil service and Mass led by Pope Leo. The Vatican organized the entire program with great care and enthusiasm, creating a memorable and spiritually enriching experience for all. The St. Thomas Province of the Claretian Congregation also took part in the Jubilee of Youth in Rome. Led by Fr. Martin Vithayathil, a group of eight young people from the Trivandrum zone represented the province. These youths, who work in Techno Park and other areas, joined the international gathering with great enthusiasm. Their participation added to the vibrant diversity and spirit of the global Catholic youth community.

Claret Bhavan, Kuravilangad: The General Assembly 2025 of the Province of St. Thomas was conducted on the 29th and 30th of May at Claret Bhavan, Kuravilangad. The two-day event brought