India - Kerala

Prayers of thanksgiving were offered in England and India when Bro. Wilfred was ordained priest on August 13th in his home parish of Kuttikad, Kerala.

Bishop Pauly Kannukkadan and twenty four priests all resplendent in Syro-Malabar rite robes, presided at the 3 ½ hour ceremony. Most of the Betharram Indian Vicariate were present, along with Fr Gaspar Fernandez our Superior General, Fr Enrico his assistant, and Fr Austin the Regional superior.
Fr Richard Walker vice-rector of Oscott College in Birmingham where Bro. Wilfred studied theology, was also present, representing the seminary.
Many people from Olton parish in England also sent greetings and good wishes and assured him of their prayers on the day. Companions of Betharram in England were represented by Shirley Fernando.
A much loved friend of Betharram in India, Fr Paul Manavalan was also there. Since 1988 he has promoted vocations for our family and watched over the development of our young members.
All the guests partook in a wonderful feast afterwards, and the heavy rain that day was a sign of showers of blessings for our whole family.