Early Life and Education
Mathew Moolakkatt was born on February 27, 1953, in Uzhavoor, a small village in the state of Kerala, India. From a young age, he showed great promise and dedication to his studies. He attended St. Thomas High School in Uzhavoor before going on to pursue his higher education at St. Joseph’s Pontifical Seminary in Aluva.
Ordination and Early Career
After completing his studies at the seminary, Mathew Moolakkatt was ordained as a priest in 1980. He began his career serving in various parishes in Kerala, where he quickly gained a reputation for his compassion, leadership, and commitment to his community.
Rise to Archbishop
Mathew Moolakkatt’s exceptional leadership qualities did not go unnoticed, and in 2001, he was appointed as the Archbishop of Kottayam. This marked a significant milestone in his career, as he took on the responsibility of leading one of the largest dioceses in Kerala.
Contributions to the Church
As Archbishop of Kottayam, Mathew Moolakkatt has made significant contributions to the Catholic Church in India. He has worked tirelessly to promote social justice, education, and healthcare initiatives in his diocese, and has been a vocal advocate for the rights of marginalized communities.
Interfaith Dialogue
Mathew Moolakkatt is known for his commitment to interfaith dialogue and cooperation. He has been actively involved in promoting harmony and understanding between different religious communities in Kerala, and has worked to build bridges between Christians, Hindus, Muslims, and other faith groups.
Recognition and Awards
Throughout his career, Mathew Moolakkatt has received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to society and the Church. In 2015, he was awarded the prestigious Mother Teresa Award for Social Justice in recognition of his work with marginalized communities.
Challenges Faced
As Archbishop of Kottayam, Mathew Moolakkatt has faced numerous challenges and obstacles in his efforts to promote social justice and equality. He has been a vocal critic of government policies that discriminate against minority communities, and has faced backlash from conservative elements within the Church.
Legacy and Impact
Mathew Moolakkatt’s legacy as Archbishop of Kottayam is one of compassion, leadership, and service to others. His commitment to social justice and interfaith dialogue has had a lasting impact on the Catholic Church in India, and he continues to inspire others to follow in his footsteps.
Personal Life
Despite his busy schedule as Archbishop, Mathew Moolakkatt remains deeply committed to his faith and his community. He is known for his humility, kindness, and sense of humor, and is beloved by those who know him personally.
Future Plans
Looking ahead, Mathew Moolakkatt shows no signs of slowing down. He remains dedicated to serving his community and promoting social justice, and is committed to building a more inclusive and equitable society for all.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Mathew Moolakkatt is a shining example of servant leadership in the Catholic Church. His dedication to social justice, interfaith dialogue, and community service has made a lasting impact on the Church in India, and he continues to inspire others with his compassion and humility.
