Mar Jose Pulikkal, the Archbishop of Kanjirappally, emphasized the vital role of fathers in safeguarding families and society from destructive forces. Drawing a parallel to Saint Joseph, who shielded the Holy Family from peril, he urged fathers to actively combat the menace of addiction, which is eroding the very foundations of family life today. He stressed that fathers must take on the role of unwavering guardians of their households, the Church, and society, even amidst the distressing incidents we hear daily.
He made these remarks while inaugurating the ‘Father’s Heart’ gathering at the Kanjirappally Pastoral Center Auditorium. The event coincided with the commemoration of Jesus’ adoptive father, Saint Joseph’s death anniversary, the second death anniversary of Mar Joseph Pauwathil—the first bishop of the diocese—and the silver jubilee of the establishment of the Patriarchal See in the region.
Mar Jose Pulikkal highlighted that Mar Joseph Pauwathil, the diocese’s first president, stood firm in his commitment to social upliftment alongside the mother church. He urged that on the second anniversary of his passing, believers should reflect on the values instilled by him, express gratitude for his contributions, and continue to stand with the Church in their journey forward.
The Archbishop also noted that while the diocese has many organizations, the Fathers' Council remains the sole dedicated body for fathers. He called for its strengthening across all parishes, emphasizing that the Jubilee Year should serve as a period of introspection, gratitude, and resolution. He encouraged everyone to recognize and address any shortcomings, adapt to the evolving times, and advance together as a unified community.
The gathering was presided over by Dr. Saju Kochuveettil, with a warm welcome extended by Diocesan Director Fr. Mathew Olikkal. Sebastian Thannikkal and Shijo Thoniyangal addressed the assembly, while Reji Kaippanplakkal expressed gratitude. During the event, Joseph honored distinguished fathers, and vibrant artistic performances by the fathers added to the celebration. Members of the Patriarchate from various parishes across thirteen dioceses participated, making the occasion a momentous one.