In Memoriam

FR JOSEPH CHITTOOPARAMBIL, SJ

(October 08, 1928-November 26, 2023)

Born on October 8, 1928, at Cheranalloor, in the diocese of Ernakulam–Angamaly, Fr Joseph Chittooparambil SJ was ordained a Priest on March 11, 1958. As he got ordained, he was getting clear and strong movements of the Spirit, calling him to the Society of Jesus. Therefore, one year after his Ordination, he joined the Jesuit Novitiate at Beschi College, Dindigul, on May 30, 1959. After his First Vows, he was assigned to Regency to a place called Mathamangalam Estate and he was appointed Assistant Priest of Kuttur Parish in the diocese of Calicut (now in Kannur diocese) for two years. Before Tertianship, he was put in charge of the Little Flower Orphanage, Mattul. He had his Tertianship at Hazaribagh from June 1964 to March 1965. He took his Final Vows on December 29, 1971, at Christ Hall. He was engaged in a variety of apostolates and ministries. Pastor in different parishes of the undivided Kozhikode Diocese in Kannur, Kozhikode and Wayanad Districts, he was instrumental to streamline Nirmala ITC and he started NCVT courses at Pilathara in 1976. He was also Hostel Warden, Minister and Superior. People, young or old, men and women, from all walks of life irrespective of caste, colour or creed, received support from the bountiful heart of Fr Chitoo in cash and kind. He travelled round the globe to ensure support for his ministries.

From 2015, he was in Christ Hall Infirmary, leading an exemplary life, doing a lot of manual work, such as cleaning the ground, gardening, etc. He was available at the Confessional for Priests, Religious and Lay Persons at any time of the day. Fr Chittoo will be ever remembered for his ability to adapt and adjust to persons, places, issues and ministries. This made him wanted everywhere. As a sick and senior Jesuit in the Province Infirmary, where I was the infirmarian, Chittoo was a patient who never raised any extra demands for food or amenities or treatment. He cheerfully endured his ailments and the limitations and restrictions of old age. His dedication and commitment to his duties was exceptional. He was a most dependable person. His Bishops, Superiors, Colleagues or Parishioners could be absolutely sure of his commitment to his duties. He was also known for his perseverance in his commitments. He used to follow up issues, paying attention with dedication till he witnessed the successful end.

The younger generation of Jesuits and his family members remember him for his simplicity of life. He was a man who found satisfaction and contentment in his lifestyle. He was a true devotee of Our Lady. He desired to die on a Saturday. His last hours of sinking began during the day on a Saturday, November 25, 2023. I believe that the Blessed Mother came to his deathbed on Saturday, the eve of the Feast of Jesus Christ the King, and carried him to the bosom of our Heavenly Father for the heavenly banquet on the Feast of Jesus Christ the King at 0.20 hrs, on26th November, 2023.

Jose Thaiparambil, SJ