The 58th martyrdom anniversary of Fr James Kottayil SJ, the first Indian Jesuit martyr, will be solemnly commemorated on Wednesday, July 16, with Holy Masses and prayers held in his home parish and at the places associated with his life and death.

In Kerala, his home parish, St John the Baptist Church, Thuruthipally, under the Diocese of Pala, will hold a special Holy Mass and  prayer for the eternal rest of the departed soul at 6:30 AM. The solemn Eucharistic celebration will be led by the parish vicar, Fr Augustine Peedikamalayil, along with Fr Regi Pimattam CMF from Daltonganj, Ranchi.

Meanwhile, in Jharkhand, where Fr Kottayil gave his life in service of the people, special commemorative services are also planned. On July 16, a Holy Mass will be celebrated at Nawatanr Parish, Ranchi Diocese — the place where he was martyred — at 5:30 AM. The Mass will be presided over by Fr Sunil Toppo, parish vicar, and Fr Tomy Anchupankil from Hazaribagh, Ranchi.

On the previous day, July 15, a Holy Mass will be offered at Mandar Parish, Ranchi Diocese, where Fr Kottayil is buried. The service will begin at 5:30 AM and will be led by parish vicar Fr Bipin Kundulna, followed by prayers at the cemetery where his tomb is located.

Fr James Kottayil SJ's legacy as a missionary and martyr continues to inspire generations. His life and martyrdom are also featured in the book 'Mission and Reconciliation: Constant Lievens to Stan Swamy', published by Gujarat Sahitya Prakash, Anand. The book, authored by Fr Job Kozhamthadam SJ, presents the lives of seven Jesuit priests, with a detailed study on Fr Kottayil's mission and ultimate sacrifice, marking him as the first Indian Jesuit martyr.

These events stand as a testament to Fr Kottayil's unwavering commitment to faith, justice, and the mission of the Church.