In Memoriam

Fr Mathew Kannadan, S. J.

 December 16, 1938 - December 9, 2023

Fr. Mathew Kannadan was born on December 16, 1938, in Nedumgapara, Ernakulam District, to Mr. Paily, a farmer, and Thresia. The youngest of eight siblings, he embarked on his educational journey at St Joseph’s School, Veliyalchal, followed by St Stephen’s High School, Keerampara, and Nirmala College, Muvattupuzha. Joining the Society of Jesus on May 17, 1958, he underwent the Novitiate training at Beschi College, Dindigul (1958-1960) and pronounced the First Vows on June 5, 1960.

Fr. Mathew pursued further studies, completing his Juniorate at Beschi College, Philosophy at Sacred Heart College, Shembaganur, and earning a B.A. in Hindi Literature from University College, Trivandrum. He underwent Theology at St Mary’s College, Kurseong (1969-1973) and was ordained on March 26, 1972. Fr. Mathew continued his education with B.Ed studies at St Xavier’s, Kolkata (1973-1974), and Tertianship at St Stanislaus College, Sitagarha, pronouncing his Last Vows on August 15, 1978.

Fr. Mathew's diverse ministries included teaching at AKJM School, Kanjirapally (1974-2001), serving as Director, Sneharam, Anjengo (2001-2002), Assistant Parish Priest, Kallikkad (02/2002), and Parish Priest at Lady Immaculate Church, Ottappalam (2002-2007). His assignments extended to roles as a Student Counsellor at Pius X ITI, Edathua (02/2007-11/2007), Parish Ministry at St Xavier’s Church, Navarangapura, Gujarat (2009-2012), and Spiritual Ministry at Prasanthi, Pachilakad (2012-2014) and Ignatian Retreat Centre, Pariyaram (2014 - 2023).

He is known for his enthusiasm and dedication.

Fr. Mathew was transferred to Christ Hall, Kozhikode in December 2022, for medical treatment. He peacefully passed away on December 9, 2023, and the funeral service was held on the following day at Christ Hall Chapel and Cemetery. The ceremony, officiated by Rev Fr Provincial E.P. Mathew, included a heartfelt homily by Fr. Raju Augustine, S.J., emphasizing Fr. Mathew's commitment to a life of poverty and simplicity.

Reflecting on Fr. Mathew's life, parallels were drawn with N S Madhavan's short story "Higuita," portraying a priest named Geevarghese embodying the spirit of the Colombian goalkeeper. Fr. Mathew, hailing from a humble rural village, infused his daily walks to school with a spirit of athleticism, seamlessly integrating it into his priestly and spiritual ministry. More than an athlete, he was a true sportsman, approaching every aspect of life with fervor and dedication.

Embracing the call to holiness and godliness from Peter 3:11, Fr. Mathew's life was marked by simplicity, trust in the Lord, and commitment to the Gospel values. The funeral Eucharistic celebration, reflecting on the Gospel reading of Jesus' words from the Sermon on the Mount, "Blessed are those poor in spirit," showcased Fr. Mathew's life of humility, selflessness, and dedicated service to others.

Fr. Mathew Kannadan's life reflected the joy of the Gospel, seeking to encounter Jesus in every aspect of his ministry. In his last years, he lived with a profound thirst for the joy of the Gospel, trusting fully in the Lord's guidance. As the Gospel reading echoed, "Blessed are those poor in spirit," Fr Mathew Kannadan's life exemplified simplicity, holiness and unwavering trust in God.

May his soul rest in eternal peace.

Raju Vattaparambil, SJ