Beloved Fr. Lazarus Palanilkunnathil OIC Passes Away at 91

The Bethany Ashram community and the faithful across Thiruvalla are mourning the loss of the esteemed Fr. Lazarus Palanilkunnathil OIC, who passed away on the 15th of February, 2024, at the age of 91. A life devoted to service, faith, and the community, Fr. Lazarus was a revered member of the Navajyoti Province of the Bethany Monastic Order in Thiruvalla and belonged to the Kallissery parish within the Thiruvalla Archdiocese.

Born on the 23rd of July, 1932, Fr. Lazarus committed his life to Christ with his first profession on the 16th of October, 1956. He was ordained to the priesthood on the 2nd of December, 1964, embarking on a spiritual journey that would span six decades. Throughout his life, Fr. Lazarus was known for his dedication to the spiritual well-being of those in his care, serving for many years as the chaplain at the Pushpagiri Medical College, where his presence brought comfort and spiritual guidance to countless individuals.

As news of his passing spreads, tributes have been pouring in, celebrating the life of a man who was not just a priest but a pillar of support and a beacon of Christ’s love to all. Fr. Lazarus’s impact on the community, his selfless service, and his gentle spirit will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

The funeral service for Fr. Lazarus Palanilkunnathil OIC will be held on the 17th of February, 2024, at the Thiruvalla Dayara Ashram. The service will be a testament to his life and work, attended by those who shared in his ministry, lived through his teachings, and were touched by his unwavering faith. It will be a time for both reflection on the legacy he leaves behind and a celebration of a life well-lived in the imitation of Christ.

The Bethany Ashram community, while grieving his loss, takes solace in the life of service Fr. Lazarus led, his dedication to the teachings of the Church, and his undying commitment to the love of God. His journey may have ended on earth, but his spirit continues to inspire and guide those who walk the path of service and faith. Rest in peace, Fr. Lazarus Palanilkunnathil OIC; your memory will forever be etched in the hearts of the faithful.

Revised Funeral Services for Fr. Lazarus Palanilkunnathil OIC Announced

The Bethany Ashram Dayara of Thukalassery, Thiruvalla, prepares to bid a heartfelt farewell to the revered Fr. Lazarus Palanilkunnathil OIC, who passed into eternal rest on the 15th of February, 2024. In remembrance of his 91 years of devoted service, a series of solemn services have been arranged to honour his life and legacy.

The funeral rites will commence on the 16th of February, 2024, at the Bethany Ashram Dayara, Thiruvalla. The first service, led by Fr. Philip Payyampally, C.E.O. of Pushpagiri Medical College, will begin at 08:30 am, offering a time of reflection and prayer. A second service will follow at 12:30 pm, with Fr. George Joseph Ayyaneth OIC, the Provincial Superior, presiding over the prayers.

An evening service is scheduled for 06:00 pm, which will include Vespers led by His Excellency Geevarghese Mar Koorilos, Metropolitan of the Malankara Orthodox Church. Later in the night, His Beatitude Moran Mor Baselios Cardinal Cleemis, the Major Archbishop of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church, will visit to offer prayers.

On the 17th of February, 2024, the day of the funeral, the body of Fr. Lazarus will be available for public homage at Pushpagiri Medical College from 06:45 am. The physical remains will then be transferred to the Ashram Chapel, where the third service will take place at 07:30 am, led by His Excellency Yoohanon Mar Theodosius, the Metropolitan.

The solemn funeral Mass is scheduled for 09:00 am, presided over by His Excellency Yoohanon Mar Chrysostom, the Metropolitan. This will be followed by a service at 10:00 am led by Very Rev. Geevarghese Kuttiyil OIC, the Superior General. The final liturgy will be at 01:00 pm, after which the seventh service will be conducted by Joshua Mar Ignathios, the Metropolitan, leading into the last rites.

The funeral will conclude with the eighth service at 02:00 pm, under the principal celebrant His Excellency Thomas Mar Koorilos, the Metropolitan, along with the co-celebration of other dignified bishops.