Kochi: Renowned filmmaker Basil Joseph opened up about the profound impact that churches and the Sunday school movement had on shaping his creative journey, highlighting that beyond spirituality, these institutions played a pivotal role in nurturing his artistic talents.
Speaking at a reception hosted by the Malabar Diocese for His Eminence Catholicos Baselios Joseph recently elected Metropolitan and Synod President of the Jacobite Syrian Christian Church Basil was the keynote speaker at the event held at St. John’s Jacobite Syrian Church in Moolankavu. He shared candidly how his formative years in church and Sunday school laid the foundation for his artistic pursuits.
“Sunday schools were not just about spiritual guidance,” Basil Joseph said. “I participated in oratory and music competitions, sang in the choir, and played the keyboard regularly at the Bathery Church. These experiences went beyond spiritual lessons they shaped the artist within me. Today, I say this with immense pride.”
He also recalled a defining childhood memory that left a lasting impression. During his participation in the sub-junior level of the All-Malankara Speech Competition in Puthenkurish, Basil delivered a speech he had memorized without notes. Despite his confident performance, he did not win a prize. Feeling disheartened, he was comforted by his father, who reminded him that success is not always immediate and encouraged him to persevere.
“That moment has stayed with me,” Basil reflected. “At that time, I was nobody. Yet, the kindness and encouragement I received taught me resilience and gave me the confidence to pursue my passions. Even today, I remember it vividly, and it has influenced the person I am.”
Basil Joseph’s words underscored the multifaceted role of churches in personal development, illustrating that Sunday schools and church activities can nurture not just faith, but creativity, confidence, and life-long values that guide individuals in their journeys.