Remembering the Legacy of Rev. Fr. Maruvathrail Matthew SDB: A Life of Faith, Service, and Inspiration

Rev. Fr. Maruvathrail Matthew SDB (1929 – 2024): A Life of Dedication and Service

Rev. Fr. Maruvathrail Matthew SDB, affectionately known as MJ Mathew, passed away peacefully on May 14, 2024, at the age of 94.

Born on November 28, 1929, in Kavalam, Kerala, as the fourth child of Joseph Chandi and Anna, Fr. Mathew felt a deep calling to the priesthood from a young age. With a deep desire to be a Salesian priest and missionary, he joined the novitiate at Mount Don Bosco, Kotagiri, in 1950. After completing his philosophical studies in India, he embarked on theological studies in Turin, Italy, in 1957. Ordained a priest in 1962, he further pursued doctoral studies at the same university.

Fr. Mathew’s life was dedicated to education and service. In 1968, he began his long tenure at Kristu Jyoti College, where he served as a professor and Dean of Studies for an impressive 44 years. He also held leadership positions within the Salesian Congregation, including serving as the fourth Provincial of the Sacred Heart Province of Bangalore.

A true leader, Fr. Mathew is remembered for his adventurous spirit and dedication to social justice. Notably, he played a pivotal role in liberating bonded laborers during his time as Rector. He was a man of deep faith, finding solace in the Bible and prayer.

Fr. MJ Mathew is remembered as a loving, humorous, and prayerful man, deeply committed to his faith and the Salesian community. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

The solemn funeral service for the beloved Fr. M. J. Mathew was conducted today at Kristu Jyoti College, Bengaluru, drawing clergy, family, friends, and community members to pay their final respects. The day began at 6:00 am with the arrival and preparation of the mortal remains, followed by the Office of the Dead at 7:00 am for paying respects.

At 10:00 am, a Requiem Holy Mass was celebrated by Fr. Jose Koyickal, the Provincial, who served as the main celebrant. He was joined by Fr. Bosco Ponthokkan and the Vice Provincial as main concelebrants. The service was meticulously coordinated by Fr. Moncy Nellikunnel, who acted as the Master of Ceremonies. Fr. Shalbin Kalanchery welcomed the congregation and provided a touching biodata of Fr. Mathew, highlighting his contributions and dedication to the community. Fr. Shabu Thottumkal delivered a heartfelt homily. The choir was led by Fr. Devikanth Vivek.

The funeral ceremony commenced at noon, with farewell messages from Fr. Koyickal, Fr. Biju Michael, Fr. Ponthokkan, and Mr. Jacob Alexander, Fr. Mathew’s nephew. Each speaker shared memories and expressed their gratitude for Fr. Mathew’s influence and service.

The service concluded with a solemn procession, marking the end of a touching tribute to Fr. Mathew’s life and legacy.