Vinaya Bhavan Seminary, Thamarassery

When the North East mission was raised to the status of a Vice-Province, it became necessary to establish a Minor Seminary in Kerala to promote and nurture vocations. The Vice-Provincial Congress held in 1987 decided to seek the permission of the Superior General to start a Minor Seminary in Kerala.

With the consent of Fr. Emile Mayoraz, the Superior General, it was decided to establish the seminary at Thamarassery. Fr. Sebastian Paredom was entrusted with the responsibility of finding a suitable property for this purpose. After considering several options, a 25-acre rubber estate was purchased in 1988 at Pullanimedu, Thamarassery, in the Syro-Malabar Diocese of Thamarassery.

The construction of the seminary building was supervised by Fr. Jose Mundoly. The seminary was named Vinaya Bhavan, and it began its formation programme with Fr. Jose Mundoly as the first Rector.

The first batch of seminarians was admitted in 1989. The initial staff members included Fr. Chacko Varapadavil, Fr. George Vettukattil, and Fr. Devasia Manalel. In 1990, Augustine Vellaramkuzhy joined the seminary as the Dean of Studies.

Along with their responsibilities in formation, the staff members also actively engaged in pastoral ministry in and around the Diocese of Thamarassery.

Staff Members Over the Years

The seminary has been blessed with the service of many dedicated priests who contributed to the formation of seminarians. Among them were:

• Fr. Pius Nellianiyil (1992–1998; 2000– )

• Fr. Mathew Pallichankudiyil (1994–1996; 2014–present)

• Fr. Athnas Kerketta (1995–1996)

• Fr. Sudhir Kullu (2000–2003)

• Fr. John Edacherrypauvath (2000–2001)

• Fr. Varghese Chettupuzhakaren (2002–2003)

• Fr. Mhonchumo Philip (2003–2007)

• Fr. George Pekkadankuzhiyil (2008–2009)

• Fr. Gracious Chirattolickal (2008–2010)

• Fr. Philip Kurisummoottil (2009–2010)

• Fr. George Vettukattil (2009–2012)

• Fr. George Vadakkeperincherimannil (2013–2015)

Spiritual Directors

The seminarians were guided spiritually by dedicated Spiritual Directors, including:

• Fr. Joseph Kizhakkeveed (2003–2004; 2010–2013)

• Fr. Jose Thenganakunnel

Vice Rector

• Fr. Joseph Kannamangalath served as Vice Rector from 2012 to 2014.