COFOUNDERS OF PRISON MINISTRY INDIA
Rev Dr Francis Kodiyan MCBS
Mastermind Behind the Prison Ministry India
Introduction
The call to become a love bomb for the reformation, rehabilitation and redemption of the lost was given to the PMI warrior Fr Francis Kodiyan MCBS at St Elijah Ashram, Niravilpuzha, Kerala on 11 March 1983. This God experience sparked in him the commitment to dedicate his entire life for the cause of prisoners and prostitutes. His whole life can be summarised in an answer to the question “Why can’t you dedicate your life for the conversion of sinners?” which the Eucharistic Jesus asked him at Elijah Ashram Chapel. Thanks to his response to this question PMI has grown with 7000 dedicated volunteers to visit the 1412 prisons in India and 20 rehabilitation centres for released prisoners and their children. This article highlights the trajectorial heights of a PMI Warrior, Fr Francis Kodiyan, the current PMI National coordinator.
Jesus Fraternity/Prison Ministry India
Born on 20 May 1961 at Chendamangalam in Ernakulam district of Kerala as the 9th son of Mr Kodiyan Vareed Itterah and Athanasia Payyappally Kovulan, Francis joined the Missionary Congregation of the Blessed Sacrament (MCBS). For his priestly studies he was sent to St Thomas Apostolic Seminary, Vadavathoor. On 8th December 1981 Br Varghese Karippery and Br Francis Kodiyan shook their hands and said, “Let us become love bombs to explode among the people, not to kill but to heal the bruised hearts”. To become love bombs they first decided to spend their daily siesta at the Malankara Chapel of St Thomas Apostolic Seminary adoring the Eucharistic Jesus, the sacrament of love. This fraternity and friendship with the Most Holy Eucharist and seminarians became the seedbed of Jesus Fraternity prayer group which later came to be known as Prison Ministry India. The 1986 All Kerala Prison Pilgrimage divine providence experiences and encounter with prisoners all over Kerala strengthened them to develop the unique lifestyle of Jesus Fraternity which was recognised by the Kerala Catholic Bishops’ Conference in 1989.
PMI Rehabilitation Centres
In 1990 immediately after his priestly ordination, Fr Francis was invited by the Kerala Catholic Bishops’ Conference to become the assistant director of Jesus Fraternity at the Pastoral Orientation Centre, Palarivattom. While serving there he masterminded the first rehabilitation centres for released male and female prisoners known as Snehashramam. The first one for men released prisoners at Vettukad, Thrissur in 1991 and the second one for women at Monvila, Thiruvananthapuram in 1992.
Reformative Research and Documentation Centre
In 1993 Fr Francis was sent to Rome for higher studies by the Missionary Congregation of the Blessed Sacrament (MCBS). His life question was: how to reform and rehabilitate a prisoner or a criminal? Finding answers to his life questions in 1998 he defended his doctoral thesis on personal religious conversion trajectory at the Pontifical Gregorian University, Rome. Coming back from his European experiences in 2003 Fr Francis launched the PMI Reformative Research and Documentation Centre (RRDC) in a rented building at Thrissur. On 20 November 2020 RRDC was shifted to the newly constructed PMI jubilee memorial building at Carmelaram, Bengaluru.
Eightfold Path for Prisoners’ Reformation
Anchoring on his doctoral thesis Fr Francis formulated an eightfold path for prisoners’ reformation and rehabilitation which he explains well in his book, The Lost: An Eightfold Path for Prisoners’ Reformation. This eightfold path consists of Reachout, Release, Repentance, Reconciliation, Reformation, Rehabilitation, Reintegration, and Redemption.
Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development
In 1994 Fr Varghese Karippery extended the ministry from Kerala to all over India and in 1996 Fr Francis Kodiyan extended this ministry to the international horizons by participating in the nineth world congress of the International Catholic Commission for Prison Pastoral Care (ICCPPC) held from 7-12 September at the Metropolitan Seminary, Warsaw, Poland. Recently he was invited by the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development in the Vatican to present a paper on the “Initiatives and Contributions of Prison Ministry India” in an international meeting for prison pastoral care held on 6-7 November 2019.
Periodicals
Fr Francis commenced his literary career by publishing a magazine called Pulari (Dawn) in 1987 for prisoners. He also took leadership in publishing a book called
Thadavarayile Sangheetham (Prison Melody) a compiled work of prisoners’ poems, short stories and pencil drawings collected through the All Kerala Art and Literary Competition for prisoners in 1987. When he became the assistant director of Jesus Fraternity, he launched the magazine known as The Echo to convey the news of prison ministry which later paved the way to Prison Voice and Vimochanam. In 2003 he launched the research magazine called Reformative Explorations: A Psycho-Spiritual and Crimino-Social Quarterly on reformation and rehabilitation from RRDC, Thrissur which is now published from RRDC, Bengaluru.
Books
Fr Francis has written the following solid books very precious to PMI volunteers. 1) Religious Conversion Trajectory (1998), 2) Conversion Trajectory of Charles de Foucauld (1998), 3) Saga of Divine Providence: The History of Jesus Fraternity and Prison Ministry India (2000), 4) My God and My Lord: The Ecclesial Identity of the Syromalabar Church (2002), 5) The Holy Eucharist: Theological and Missionary Perspectives – Malayalam edited (2006), 6) The Eucharist: An Antidote to Death Culture, edited (2007), 7) Rainbow: Theological Foundations of Jesus Fraternity and Prison Ministry India (2007), 8) Love Bomb: Prisoners’ Reformation Trajectory (2018), and 9) The Lost: An Eightfold Path for Prisoners’ Reformation (2019).
Conclusion
Fr Francis Kodiyan, a mighty PMI warrior who masterminded the Prison Ministry India, is a true love bomb who inspires people with his love for God and compassion for humanity. His simple lifestyle, friendly and pleasing manners, hard work habit of doing everything for the greater glory of God certainly inspire many. As Jesus went in search of the lost sheep his heart always goes for the weaker ones in the community and society at large. He is a man of mission with vision and a man with conviction, who always dares to reach out to the needy and the marginalized. Together with PMI family I salute this PMI warrior and wish that God may work many more wonders through this Man of Compassion.
Mastermind Behind the Prison Ministry India
Introduction
The call to become a love bomb for the reformation, rehabilitation and redemption of the lost was given to the PMI warrior Fr Francis Kodiyan MCBS at St Elijah Ashram, Niravilpuzha, Kerala on 11 March 1983. This God experience sparked in him the commitment to dedicate his entire life for the cause of prisoners and prostitutes. His whole life can be summarised in an answer to the question “Why can’t you dedicate your life for the conversion of sinners?” which the Eucharistic Jesus asked him at Elijah Ashram Chapel. Thanks to his response to this question PMI has grown with 7000 dedicated volunteers to visit the 1412 prisons in India and 20 rehabilitation centres for released prisoners and their children. This article highlights the trajectorial heights of a PMI Warrior, Fr Francis Kodiyan, the current PMI National coordinator.
Jesus Fraternity/Prison Ministry India
Born on 20 May 1961 at Chendamangalam in Ernakulam district of Kerala as the 9th son of Mr Kodiyan Vareed Itterah and Athanasia Payyappally Kovulan, Francis joined the Missionary Congregation of the Blessed Sacrament (MCBS). For his priestly studies he was sent to St Thomas Apostolic Seminary, Vadavathoor. On 8th December 1981 Br Varghese Karippery and Br Francis Kodiyan shook their hands and said, “Let us become love bombs to explode among the people, not to kill but to heal the bruised hearts”. To become love bombs they first decided to spend their daily siesta at the Malankara Chapel of St Thomas Apostolic Seminary adoring the Eucharistic Jesus, the sacrament of love. This fraternity and friendship with the Most Holy Eucharist and seminarians became the seedbed of Jesus Fraternity prayer group which later came to be known as Prison Ministry India. The 1986 All Kerala Prison Pilgrimage divine providence experiences and encounter with prisoners all over Kerala strengthened them to develop the unique lifestyle of Jesus Fraternity which was recognised by the Kerala Catholic Bishops’ Conference in 1989.
PMI Rehabilitation Centres
In 1990 immediately after his priestly ordination, Fr Francis was invited by the Kerala Catholic Bishops’ Conference to become the assistant director of Jesus Fraternity at the Pastoral Orientation Centre, Palarivattom. While serving there he masterminded the first rehabilitation centres for released male and female prisoners known as Snehashramam. The first one for men released prisoners at Vettukad, Thrissur in 1991 and the second one for women at Monvila, Thiruvananthapuram in 1992.
Reformative Research and Documentation Centre
In 1993 Fr Francis was sent to Rome for higher studies by the Missionary Congregation of the Blessed Sacrament (MCBS). His life question was: how to reform and rehabilitate a prisoner or a criminal? Finding answers to his life questions in 1998 he defended his doctoral thesis on personal religious conversion trajectory at the Pontifical Gregorian University, Rome. Coming back from his European experiences in 2003 Fr Francis launched the PMI Reformative Research and Documentation Centre (RRDC) in a rented building at Thrissur. On 20 November 2020 RRDC was shifted to the newly constructed PMI jubilee memorial building at Carmelaram, Bengaluru.
Eightfold Path for Prisoners’ Reformation
Anchoring on his doctoral thesis Fr Francis formulated an eightfold path for prisoners’ reformation and rehabilitation which he explains well in his book, The Lost: An Eightfold Path for Prisoners’ Reformation. This eightfold path consists of Reachout, Release, Repentance, Reconciliation, Reformation, Rehabilitation, Reintegration, and Redemption.
Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development
In 1994 Fr Varghese Karippery extended the ministry from Kerala to all over India and in 1996 Fr Francis Kodiyan extended this ministry to the international horizons by participating in the nineth world congress of the International Catholic Commission for Prison Pastoral Care (ICCPPC) held from 7-12 September at the Metropolitan Seminary, Warsaw, Poland. Recently he was invited by the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development in the Vatican to present a paper on the “Initiatives and Contributions of Prison Ministry India” in an international meeting for prison pastoral care held on 6-7 November 2019.
Periodicals
Fr Francis commenced his literary career by publishing a magazine called Pulari (Dawn) in 1987 for prisoners. He also took leadership in publishing a book called
Thadavarayile Sangheetham (Prison Melody) a compiled work of prisoners’ poems, short stories and pencil drawings collected through the All Kerala Art and Literary Competition for prisoners in 1987. When he became the assistant director of Jesus Fraternity, he launched the magazine known as The Echo to convey the news of prison ministry which later paved the way to Prison Voice and Vimochanam. In 2003 he launched the research magazine called Reformative Explorations: A Psycho-Spiritual and Crimino-Social Quarterly on reformation and rehabilitation from RRDC, Thrissur which is now published from RRDC, Bengaluru.
Books
Fr Francis has written the following solid books very precious to PMI volunteers. 1) Religious Conversion Trajectory (1998), 2) Conversion Trajectory of Charles de Foucauld (1998), 3) Saga of Divine Providence: The History of Jesus Fraternity and Prison Ministry India (2000), 4) My God and My Lord: The Ecclesial Identity of the Syromalabar Church (2002), 5) The Holy Eucharist: Theological and Missionary Perspectives – Malayalam edited (2006), 6) The Eucharist: An Antidote to Death Culture, edited (2007), 7) Rainbow: Theological Foundations of Jesus Fraternity and Prison Ministry India (2007), 8) Love Bomb: Prisoners’ Reformation Trajectory (2018), and 9) The Lost: An Eightfold Path for Prisoners’ Reformation (2019).
Conclusion
Fr Francis Kodiyan, a mighty PMI warrior who masterminded the Prison Ministry India, is a true love bomb who inspires people with his love for God and compassion for humanity. His simple lifestyle, friendly and pleasing manners, hard work habit of doing everything for the greater glory of God certainly inspire many. As Jesus went in search of the lost sheep his heart always goes for the weaker ones in the community and society at large. He is a man of mission with vision and a man with conviction, who always dares to reach out to the needy and the marginalized. Together with PMI family I salute this PMI warrior and wish that God may work many more wonders through this Man of Compassion.
Fr Varghese Karippery
A PMI Warrior of Insight, Innovation and Inspiration
Introduction
Fr Varghese Karippery, a great prophet of the 21st century, is a PMI warrior of insight, innovation and inspiration. Like Steve Jobs the great innovator, Varghese gave birth to many movements for the emancipation of those who live in the peripheries. Together with Fr Francis Kodiyan he founded Jesus Fraternity and Prison Ministry India, a Catholic movement working under the CBCI for the release, reformation, rehabilitation and reintegration of prisoners. He proved himself to be a mighty PMI warrior by his commitment to prisoners’ reformation, and by his selfless service as director of Snehashramam and national coordinator. His greatest contribution lies in his 3R theory for prisoners’ reformation and rehabilitation which has become a roadmap to thousands to liberate themselves from the clutches of sin and crime. This article briefly highlights his great contributions to humanity.
Love Bomb Exploder
Born on 10th April 1959 at Nellikunnu, Thrissur, Kerala, India as the 9th son of Mr Karippery Pyloth and Kunjila Adampukulam, Varghese joined the Minor Seminary of Thrissur Archdiocese. For his priestly studies he came to St Thomas Apostolic Seminary, Vadavathoor. On 8th December 1981 both Varghese and Francis were appointed to attend the phone calls. During their friendly conversation in the phone cabin Varghese told Francis “Be a love bomb. Let it be exploded. Not to kill but to heal the brokenhearted”. They became friends and decided to pray daily before the Blessed Sacrament. This fraternity and friendship with the Most Holy Eucharist led them to go to the peripheries of Kottayam which in the course of time guided them to the Kottayam Subjail.
Jesus Fraternity Cofounder
The attempt to visit the Kottayam prison with the assistance of prison Fellowship inspired Varghese and Francis to form a prayer group in their batch so as to pray for the people in the peripheries. Their visit to the neighboring prisons led them to the All Kerala Prison Pilgrimage in 1986 and the formation of Jesus Fraternity, a prayer group for the welfare of prisoners and their families and victims and was recognized by the KCBC in 1989.
Snehashramam Director
When Jesus Fraternity launched its first rehabilitation center for released men prisoners called Snehashramam the KCBC found none other than Fr Varghese as its first director. He victoriously served as its director from 1991-1994 and again from 2003-2009. As its director he tirelessly toiled to release, reform, reconcile, rehabilitate, reintegrate and redeem more than 500 prisoners.
3 R Theory
Fr Varghese’ prolonged experience with the release and rehabilitation of prisoners gave him the insight to form a theory for their reformation. It is known as 3R Theory which consists of Release, Renewal and Rehabilitation. Release involves providing hope in life, leading them to forgiving love, strengthening their willpower, and thereby to self-transformation. Renewal comprises of mental resetting, reconciliation with those whom he/she hates, visualizing good in others and self, work therapy, prayer, and living in the present. Rehabilitation consists of initiation to a normal family and social life with job facilities done with the assistance of local police and local Catholic parish.
National Coordinator
In 1994 Fr Karippery was appointed to extend the Jesus Fraternity ministry to the national level. Like an explorer he travelled all over India and convened a national convention in Bangalore on 13-15 August 1994. During this convention the new name Prison Ministry India was taken and Fr Varghese was elected as its first national coordinator. In 1995 he launched the national office in a cowshed at St Jacob’s Farm, Huskur, Bengaluru which was later shifted to the leprosy rehabilitation center at Sumanahalli. In 1996 PMI office was shifted to the Teacher’s colony at Koramangala and finally to Thomas Layout, Carmelaram, Bengaluru.
Author
Fr Varghese Karippery wrote the following books which shed light to the founding charism, spirituality and lifestyle of Prison Ministry India: 1) coauthored with Latika, Prisoners our Own Brethren (1998), 2) Star of Hope in Dark Cells (2000), 3) Mochanayatra (Malayalam) (2000), 4) Fube Therapy (1995), and 5) Aantharika Saukyathinte Suvarnna Thakkol (Malayalam) (2000).
Innovator
Fr Varghese is a man of great creative intelligence, innovation and insight. Besides Jesus Fraternity and Prison Ministry India, he innovatively launched many relevant and timely ministries. 1) Sarathi – a movement for the welfare and coordination of taxi and autorickshaw drivers recognized by the Kerala Catholic Bishops’ Conference (KCBC). This is an implementation of the labor actualization theory by transforming the employees to become maximum productive. 2) ChrisGold – a movement for the retirees so that they spend the evening of their life in joy, peace and serenity glorifying the Lord. 3) Ladyglobal – meant for the education of nursing students by the cooperation of women themselves. 4) Global Children – an association for the welfare of children by the assistance of children themselves. 5) Shanti Samaj – meant for the welfare of wandering beggars, mental patients and street children in Thrissur City.
Archpriest
Fr Varghese like the good shepherd served as assistant parish priest at St Thomas Forane Church, Palayur (1989), and St Antony’s Forane Church, Ollur (1990). He was parish priest at Little Flower Church Poomala (1991), St Joseph Church, Vettukad (1992-1994), St Antony’s Church Chuvannamannu (2003), St Joseph Church Kuriachira (2016-2019), and at present he is the Archpriest of St Thomas Archiepiscopal Church, Palayur.
Conclusion
With his motto “think globally, act locally and reform personally” and with his practice of the “maximum utility theory of commitment”, Fr Varghese Karippery has become an embodiment of empowerment of prisoners, drivers, retirees, women, children, beggars, headload workers, mental patients and street children. With his creative intelligence and unfathomable thirst to serve the lost, the least and the last wherever he is appointed he made an enduring difference.
A PMI Warrior of Insight, Innovation and Inspiration
Introduction
Fr Varghese Karippery, a great prophet of the 21st century, is a PMI warrior of insight, innovation and inspiration. Like Steve Jobs the great innovator, Varghese gave birth to many movements for the emancipation of those who live in the peripheries. Together with Fr Francis Kodiyan he founded Jesus Fraternity and Prison Ministry India, a Catholic movement working under the CBCI for the release, reformation, rehabilitation and reintegration of prisoners. He proved himself to be a mighty PMI warrior by his commitment to prisoners’ reformation, and by his selfless service as director of Snehashramam and national coordinator. His greatest contribution lies in his 3R theory for prisoners’ reformation and rehabilitation which has become a roadmap to thousands to liberate themselves from the clutches of sin and crime. This article briefly highlights his great contributions to humanity.
Love Bomb Exploder
Born on 10th April 1959 at Nellikunnu, Thrissur, Kerala, India as the 9th son of Mr Karippery Pyloth and Kunjila Adampukulam, Varghese joined the Minor Seminary of Thrissur Archdiocese. For his priestly studies he came to St Thomas Apostolic Seminary, Vadavathoor. On 8th December 1981 both Varghese and Francis were appointed to attend the phone calls. During their friendly conversation in the phone cabin Varghese told Francis “Be a love bomb. Let it be exploded. Not to kill but to heal the brokenhearted”. They became friends and decided to pray daily before the Blessed Sacrament. This fraternity and friendship with the Most Holy Eucharist led them to go to the peripheries of Kottayam which in the course of time guided them to the Kottayam Subjail.
Jesus Fraternity Cofounder
The attempt to visit the Kottayam prison with the assistance of prison Fellowship inspired Varghese and Francis to form a prayer group in their batch so as to pray for the people in the peripheries. Their visit to the neighboring prisons led them to the All Kerala Prison Pilgrimage in 1986 and the formation of Jesus Fraternity, a prayer group for the welfare of prisoners and their families and victims and was recognized by the KCBC in 1989.
Snehashramam Director
When Jesus Fraternity launched its first rehabilitation center for released men prisoners called Snehashramam the KCBC found none other than Fr Varghese as its first director. He victoriously served as its director from 1991-1994 and again from 2003-2009. As its director he tirelessly toiled to release, reform, reconcile, rehabilitate, reintegrate and redeem more than 500 prisoners.
3 R Theory
Fr Varghese’ prolonged experience with the release and rehabilitation of prisoners gave him the insight to form a theory for their reformation. It is known as 3R Theory which consists of Release, Renewal and Rehabilitation. Release involves providing hope in life, leading them to forgiving love, strengthening their willpower, and thereby to self-transformation. Renewal comprises of mental resetting, reconciliation with those whom he/she hates, visualizing good in others and self, work therapy, prayer, and living in the present. Rehabilitation consists of initiation to a normal family and social life with job facilities done with the assistance of local police and local Catholic parish.
National Coordinator
In 1994 Fr Karippery was appointed to extend the Jesus Fraternity ministry to the national level. Like an explorer he travelled all over India and convened a national convention in Bangalore on 13-15 August 1994. During this convention the new name Prison Ministry India was taken and Fr Varghese was elected as its first national coordinator. In 1995 he launched the national office in a cowshed at St Jacob’s Farm, Huskur, Bengaluru which was later shifted to the leprosy rehabilitation center at Sumanahalli. In 1996 PMI office was shifted to the Teacher’s colony at Koramangala and finally to Thomas Layout, Carmelaram, Bengaluru.
Author
Fr Varghese Karippery wrote the following books which shed light to the founding charism, spirituality and lifestyle of Prison Ministry India: 1) coauthored with Latika, Prisoners our Own Brethren (1998), 2) Star of Hope in Dark Cells (2000), 3) Mochanayatra (Malayalam) (2000), 4) Fube Therapy (1995), and 5) Aantharika Saukyathinte Suvarnna Thakkol (Malayalam) (2000).
Innovator
Fr Varghese is a man of great creative intelligence, innovation and insight. Besides Jesus Fraternity and Prison Ministry India, he innovatively launched many relevant and timely ministries. 1) Sarathi – a movement for the welfare and coordination of taxi and autorickshaw drivers recognized by the Kerala Catholic Bishops’ Conference (KCBC). This is an implementation of the labor actualization theory by transforming the employees to become maximum productive. 2) ChrisGold – a movement for the retirees so that they spend the evening of their life in joy, peace and serenity glorifying the Lord. 3) Ladyglobal – meant for the education of nursing students by the cooperation of women themselves. 4) Global Children – an association for the welfare of children by the assistance of children themselves. 5) Shanti Samaj – meant for the welfare of wandering beggars, mental patients and street children in Thrissur City.
Archpriest
Fr Varghese like the good shepherd served as assistant parish priest at St Thomas Forane Church, Palayur (1989), and St Antony’s Forane Church, Ollur (1990). He was parish priest at Little Flower Church Poomala (1991), St Joseph Church, Vettukad (1992-1994), St Antony’s Church Chuvannamannu (2003), St Joseph Church Kuriachira (2016-2019), and at present he is the Archpriest of St Thomas Archiepiscopal Church, Palayur.
Conclusion
With his motto “think globally, act locally and reform personally” and with his practice of the “maximum utility theory of commitment”, Fr Varghese Karippery has become an embodiment of empowerment of prisoners, drivers, retirees, women, children, beggars, headload workers, mental patients and street children. With his creative intelligence and unfathomable thirst to serve the lost, the least and the last wherever he is appointed he made an enduring difference.
CHAIRMEN OF PRISON MINISTRY INDIA
Most Rev Dr Peter Remigius
First Chairman of Prison Ministry India
Introduction
A warrior is the protector of those in need. A warrior is the guardian of the ways of honor and courage. A warrior will not put his own desires above what is right. Above all, a warrior is always motivated by his utmost duty. This courageous warrior is none other than our former chairman Most Rev Dr Peter Remigius, who tirelessly worked for the growth and well-being of Prison Ministry India. He was a man of hope, daring, serving and living his episcopal motto. He served for 25 years as the chairman of Prison Ministry India. Bishop Peter Remigius was the first chairman of Prison Ministry India who guided the ministry to the greater glory of God and represented PMI in CBCI.
Alter Christus
Bishop Peter Remigius, the eldest son of Mr Peter, an accountant of St Andrew Church Manakudy and Mrs Clara Peter, born on May 20, 1939 at Melmanakudi in Kanyakumari District, Tamilnadu, Kottar Diocese. After completing his school education, he joined St Aloysius Minor Seminary, Nagercoil. He did his priestly studies at Sacred Heart Major Seminary, Poonamalli and was ordained a priest for the Diocese of Kottar on 18 April 1966 at Madras by Most Rev Dr Arulappa, Archbishop of Madras-Mylapore.
Shepherd
After ordination Fr Peter was appointed as assistant priest of Saral (1966-1969), Palliady (1969-1970) and Parakunnu (1970-1973). At Parakannu he had a rich experience of assisting the Belgian Missionary Rev Fr James Themper, who started the Kottar Social Service Society. In 1973, at the age of 33, he was appointed Director of Kottar Social Service Society. He served as the director of the Social Service Sector for nine years and then served as the parish priest of St Francis Xavier Cathedral Kottar (1980-1990). In his capacity as Forane Vicar he became a shepherd of 29 Parishes and 35 churches. He was the Director of the Caritas, a Christian Social welfare organization from 1973 to 1975 and was the chairman of the Famine Commission of the Diocese of Kottar from 1974 to 1976. He also served as the secretary of the Christian Continental Development Forum (CCDF), Asian Partner of Human Development (APHD), the executive member of the International Migration Commission (IMC) and the projects’ director and coordinator of the diocese.
Episcopacy
Fr Peter Remigius was consecrated and installed as Bishop of Kumbakonam on 3 January 1990 by His Eminence Lourdusamy. His motto is Hope, Dare, Serve. As the good shepherd he served the diocese of Kumbakonam for 18 years. He was appointed Bishop of Kottar on 30 June 2007 and took the canonical possession of the Diocese of Kottar on 24 August 2007.
PMI Chairman for CBCI
The CBCI standing committee meeting held at St John’s Medical College Hospital, Bengaluru on 13-15 September 1999 recognized PMI on an experimental basis. CBCI asked PMI to amend its bylaws according to the terms and conditions of CBCI and Bishop Peter Remigius took interest to obtain its complete approval from CBCI. Finally, on 24 August 2000 Prison Ministry India was officially recognized by the Catholic Bishops Conference of India (CBCI) and Most Rev Dr Peter Remigius was appointed as its first chairman. On 17 August 2003 CBCI officially recognized St Maximilian Kolbe as the Patron of Prison Ministry India. On 1 October 2014 PMI was made separate desk under Justice, Peace and Development Commission in CBCI.
Prison Ministry Sunday
After getting the recognition from the CBCI again Bishop Peter Remigius approached and requested to allot a Sunday for the ministry. It was agreed that Prison ministry Sunday can be celebrated in connection with the feast of St Maximillian Kolbe (14th August) the patron saint of the Prison Ministry India and also allowed to have a second collection from the faithful. During every Prison Ministry Sunday Bishop Remigius used forward a pastoral letter to all bishops in the country. He not only forwarded letters but he himself used to offer Holy Masses and collect money for the ministry.
PMI Spokesperson to CBCI
In CBCI meetings Bishop Remigius used to speak for PMI and encourage bishops to begin the ministry in their dioceses. He literally cried and appealed to the bishops insisting that Jesus came to the world for the sinners. Quoting the gesture of the Holy Father John Paul II who forgave Mehmet Ali Agha the one who attempted to assassinate him, he requested to continue the ministry in all the prisons of their dioceses.
Conclusion
No one can love this ministry without a profound spiritual foundation. We have seen him reciting his daily prayers without leaving a day even during busy travel schedules. Really, he is a warrior of prison ministry and will continue to be the warrior. We cannot write the Indian freedom movement without mentioning the name of Mahatma Gandhi. In the same way Prison Ministry India cannot write its history without the name Most Rev Dr Peter Remigius. We remain indebted to him for his tireless service for the brethren behind the bars.
First Chairman of Prison Ministry India
Introduction
A warrior is the protector of those in need. A warrior is the guardian of the ways of honor and courage. A warrior will not put his own desires above what is right. Above all, a warrior is always motivated by his utmost duty. This courageous warrior is none other than our former chairman Most Rev Dr Peter Remigius, who tirelessly worked for the growth and well-being of Prison Ministry India. He was a man of hope, daring, serving and living his episcopal motto. He served for 25 years as the chairman of Prison Ministry India. Bishop Peter Remigius was the first chairman of Prison Ministry India who guided the ministry to the greater glory of God and represented PMI in CBCI.
Alter Christus
Bishop Peter Remigius, the eldest son of Mr Peter, an accountant of St Andrew Church Manakudy and Mrs Clara Peter, born on May 20, 1939 at Melmanakudi in Kanyakumari District, Tamilnadu, Kottar Diocese. After completing his school education, he joined St Aloysius Minor Seminary, Nagercoil. He did his priestly studies at Sacred Heart Major Seminary, Poonamalli and was ordained a priest for the Diocese of Kottar on 18 April 1966 at Madras by Most Rev Dr Arulappa, Archbishop of Madras-Mylapore.
Shepherd
After ordination Fr Peter was appointed as assistant priest of Saral (1966-1969), Palliady (1969-1970) and Parakunnu (1970-1973). At Parakannu he had a rich experience of assisting the Belgian Missionary Rev Fr James Themper, who started the Kottar Social Service Society. In 1973, at the age of 33, he was appointed Director of Kottar Social Service Society. He served as the director of the Social Service Sector for nine years and then served as the parish priest of St Francis Xavier Cathedral Kottar (1980-1990). In his capacity as Forane Vicar he became a shepherd of 29 Parishes and 35 churches. He was the Director of the Caritas, a Christian Social welfare organization from 1973 to 1975 and was the chairman of the Famine Commission of the Diocese of Kottar from 1974 to 1976. He also served as the secretary of the Christian Continental Development Forum (CCDF), Asian Partner of Human Development (APHD), the executive member of the International Migration Commission (IMC) and the projects’ director and coordinator of the diocese.
Episcopacy
Fr Peter Remigius was consecrated and installed as Bishop of Kumbakonam on 3 January 1990 by His Eminence Lourdusamy. His motto is Hope, Dare, Serve. As the good shepherd he served the diocese of Kumbakonam for 18 years. He was appointed Bishop of Kottar on 30 June 2007 and took the canonical possession of the Diocese of Kottar on 24 August 2007.
PMI Chairman for CBCI
The CBCI standing committee meeting held at St John’s Medical College Hospital, Bengaluru on 13-15 September 1999 recognized PMI on an experimental basis. CBCI asked PMI to amend its bylaws according to the terms and conditions of CBCI and Bishop Peter Remigius took interest to obtain its complete approval from CBCI. Finally, on 24 August 2000 Prison Ministry India was officially recognized by the Catholic Bishops Conference of India (CBCI) and Most Rev Dr Peter Remigius was appointed as its first chairman. On 17 August 2003 CBCI officially recognized St Maximilian Kolbe as the Patron of Prison Ministry India. On 1 October 2014 PMI was made separate desk under Justice, Peace and Development Commission in CBCI.
Prison Ministry Sunday
After getting the recognition from the CBCI again Bishop Peter Remigius approached and requested to allot a Sunday for the ministry. It was agreed that Prison ministry Sunday can be celebrated in connection with the feast of St Maximillian Kolbe (14th August) the patron saint of the Prison Ministry India and also allowed to have a second collection from the faithful. During every Prison Ministry Sunday Bishop Remigius used forward a pastoral letter to all bishops in the country. He not only forwarded letters but he himself used to offer Holy Masses and collect money for the ministry.
PMI Spokesperson to CBCI
In CBCI meetings Bishop Remigius used to speak for PMI and encourage bishops to begin the ministry in their dioceses. He literally cried and appealed to the bishops insisting that Jesus came to the world for the sinners. Quoting the gesture of the Holy Father John Paul II who forgave Mehmet Ali Agha the one who attempted to assassinate him, he requested to continue the ministry in all the prisons of their dioceses.
Conclusion
No one can love this ministry without a profound spiritual foundation. We have seen him reciting his daily prayers without leaving a day even during busy travel schedules. Really, he is a warrior of prison ministry and will continue to be the warrior. We cannot write the Indian freedom movement without mentioning the name of Mahatma Gandhi. In the same way Prison Ministry India cannot write its history without the name Most Rev Dr Peter Remigius. We remain indebted to him for his tireless service for the brethren behind the bars.
Most Rev Dr Allwyn D’Silva
The Chairman of Prison Ministry India
Introduction
Auxiliary Bishop Allwyn D’Silva was born April 20, 1948, in Amboli. He was parish priest of St. John the Baptist Church, Thane (West), when the appointment came on Dec. 20, 2016. He holds a master’s degree in political science from the University of Mumbai. He was ordained priest on April 19, 1975. As part of his priestly ministry he spent 21 years in the slums of Mumbai where he was deeply involved in human rights issues, social concerns and more recently in environmental matters at the local, regional and national levels. Actively involved in environmental concerns, he is also secretary of the climate change desk of the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences (FABC) and is visiting professor the archdiocesan seminary.
Appointments
After his ordination from 1975 to 1976, he served as the assistant at St. Anthony’s Church, Vakola. From 1976 to 1977 he did his Ministry at National Vocation Centre, Pune. He served as the in charge for vocations from 1977 to 1986. From 1986 to 1994 he served as assistant Priest and later Parish Priest, St. Jude Church, Jeri –Meri. From 1991 to 1994 he served as the Dean, South East Salsette Deanery. From 1994 to 2000 - Priest in-charge, St. Jude Church, Malad East. From 2000 to 2007 he was priest in-charge, St. Anthony’s Church, Dharavi. From 2002 to 2007 he served as Dean at North Mumbai Deanery. From 2007 to 2011 he served as the Parish Priest, St. John the Baptist Church, Thane. In 2012 he was appointed as the Episcopal Vicar. 20 December 2016 he was appointed as the Auxiliary Bishop of Bombay by His Holiness Pope Francis and on 28 January 2017 he was ordained as the Auxiliary Bishop of Bombay by His Eminence, Oswald Cardinal Gracias, Archbishop of Bombay.
Care for Creation
Care for Creation is the motto of Most Rev Dr Allwyn D’Silva and he lives it. The background with the Cross supreme represents the Church of Christ; the hand stands for the care for all of creation, represented by the Earth. People, nature and the environment are interdependent which makes ‘care for creation’ paramount.
Father of the Poor
As part of his priestly ministry Bishop Allwyn D’Silva, he spent 21 years in the slums of Mumbai where he was deeply involved in Human Rights issues, social concerns and more recently, in environmental matters at the local, regional and national levels. He has a big heart for the poor and man of down to earth. His simplicity and humility is always appreciated by the people who live with him. He is the He is in charge of the Justice and Peace Commission for the Archdiocese of Bombay and coordinator of the Prison Ministry. Bishop Allwyn is the Secretary of the Climate Change Desk and Human Development Office for the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences (FABC). He is also in charge of the Thane, Navi Mumbai and Raigad Deaneries. Among the honorary posts that have been held by him were: Director of Institute for Community Organisation Research; Founder Director of Jagruti Kendra – Jerimeri; Regional Vice-President of International Human Rights Education Consortium; President of South Asian Human Rights Education Consortium; President of Mumbai Initiative on Human Rights Education; Member of Asian Justice and Peace Commission; Member of Executive Committee of Indian Network for Ethics and Climate Change.
Publications and Awards
Bishop Allywn has co-edited, published and presented a number of articles and papers. He is also the recipient of awards from: Federation of Centres for Community Organisation; Bombay Catholic Sabha; Dignity Foundation; CPCI Award (Human Rights); World Peace Movement Trust; The Examiner Award for Journalism / Golden Pen Award.
Conclusion
He was appointed as the Chairman of PMI in 2018. One cannot do this ministry without having passion. Bishop Allwyn D’Silva has a passionate heart for the brethren behind the bars. He is always with innovative ideas and initiatives. He talks less and walks more. A bishop who is ever approachable and reaches out to the needy without counting the costs. In this ministry for the lost, the least and the last one may not get any appreciation. He guides the 8000 volunteers of PMI with his simple lifestyle and without expecting any reward on earth. In his every address to the volunteers he emphasizes the passion and love for the brethren behind the bars and their families.
NATIONAL COORDINATORS OF PRISON MINISTRY INDIA
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Fr Varghese Karippey
1995-1998
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Fr Sebastian Vadakumpadan
2002-2007, 2011-2019
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Fr Josekutty Kalayil MST
2007-2011
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Rev Dr Francis Kodiyan MCBS
2019-
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Assistant National Coordinators OF Prison Ministry India
1995-1996 Fr Michael Kuminiyil MST
1996-1997 Bro Theophin MMB
1997-1998 Fr Sebaatian Theckanath EKM
2000-2001 Fr Paschal Coutinho CP
2001-2004 Fr Josekutty Kalayil MST
2004-2005 Fr M J Thomas Manakuzhy OFM
2005-2008 Fr J L Savari Nayagam HGN
2008-2010 Br Edwin Kuttickal MMB
2011-2013 Fr Mathew Souriamthottiyil MI
2013-2015 Fr Sathish HGN
2015-2016 Fr Joseph Plackal OCD
2016-2017 Fr Gnana Dhinagaran PLYM
2016-2017 Fr Arogyaraj HGN
2017-2018 Fr Edwin Raj PLYM
2018-2019 Fr Varaprasad Mundalapati KDPA
2018-2019 Fr Baskaran Lenus MSC
2019-2020 Fr Stanly Loudu John MSC
NATIONAL SECRETARIES OF PRISON MINISTRY INDIA
1995-1996 Sr Fidelis HCM
1996-1997 Sr Jemma DHM
1997-1999 Sr Lithishia SH
1997-1999 Sr Agricola FCC
1999-2000 Sr Jis Rose SS
2000-2001 Sr Teresina CSJB
2000-2001 Sr Rosamma OSSR
2001-2002 Sr Andrews SJC
2002-2008 Sr Johnsi HSM
2008-2009 Sr Keerthana CMC
2009-2011 Sr Jemma DHM
2011-2013 Sr Ancy SCSC
2013-2016 Sr Maria CTC
2016-2018 Sr Diana CTC
2018-2020 Sr Lini Sheeja MSC
Mr. Robin D'Cruz
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He is the Chartered Engineer and founder of two companies. He is a constant supporter of Prison Ministry India. For the new projects of prison ministry he is the first one to help us financially and by efficient guidance. He is the main sponsor for the education of children of Prisoners.
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The entire family is with prison ministry. The family did not forget us to keep the donation cheques for the coming few months when they went abroad. Their commitment is praise worthy. Mr. Dominic is the one who gave his time and wealth and talents for bringing the prison ministry to march towards its goal with a vision and mission. His works shops were attended and appreciated by the national executive members. He is master mind towards our website and many of our programmes.
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Mrs. Sundari & Mr. Dominic Pokish
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This organization is providing a lot of support for the rehabilitation of people from the prison. They are ready to provide tailoring machines and other necessary equipments for the rehabilitated girls of our rehabilitation centres. It is notable that they grant the scholarship for the children of prisoners. They made a mega project called “ WE CLOTH” by supplying new cloth for all the prisoners worth of Rupees sixty lakhs .
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Y’S Men International
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Rotary club, Bangalore
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Rotary women International
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ICCPPC
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ChRI
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