Claretian Missionaries

Karukutty: In a significant milestone marking the expansion of our missionary presence, the Claretian Missionaries have officially taken up the Mithapur–Okha Mission in the Diocese of Rajkot, Gujarat, as the 28th centre of the Province. This new mission is a realization of the dreams and commitments outlined in the V Provincial Chapter. On October 16, 2025, a formal 20-year agreement was signed between Mar Jose Chittooparambil, Bishop of Rajkot, and Fr. Siby Njavallikunnel CMF, Provincial Superior, entrusting the Claretian Missionaries with this vibrant and promising mission centre. The mission includes a parish, a 50-year-old Marian Pilgrim Centre at Okha, pastoral care of the sisters belonging to four convents, an English medium high school with around 800 students (state syllabus) where the Claretians serve as Principal and Administrator, and a Social Service Centre. At present, Fr. Jibin Chakkiath CMF serves as the Principal of the school, while Fr. Soyin Chenkallel CMF serves as the Parish Priest and In-charge of the Social Service Centre. This new mission marks an inspiring step forward in our Province’s journey of evangelization, education, and social outreach in the western region of India.

Karukutty: The Superiors’ Meet 2025 was held from October 11 to 13 at the Alphonsian Pastoral Institute, Pala. The gathering began with a prayer service, followed by input sessions by Rev. Fr. Mathew Kakkattupillil VC, former Provincial Superior of St. Joseph Province, Kottayam. A total of 34 participants attended the three-day meeting, which included report presentations, discussions, and evaluation. The gathering concluded with lunch on October 13.

Karukutty: The Province’s Annual Retreat 2025 conducted in two batches at the Alphonsean Pastoral Institute, Pala. The first batch, held from October 6–11, 2025, witnessed the participation of 54 members. Rev. Fr. Paul Vadakkummury CMI, Director of Marian Vajanathiram Retreat Centre, Kumarakom, led the retreat with reflections based on scripture, helping participants to grow in faith and deepen their relationship with God. The retreat offered moments of prayer, reflection and silence allowing the participants to pause from their daily routines and immerse themselves in spiritual renewal. The second batch of the retreat is scheduled from November 6–11, 2025.

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.