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A. J. Philip is a senior journalist and columnist. He has held high editorial posts in The Tribune, the Indian Express and the Hindustan Times. He writes regularly for the Indian Currents, the Oman Tribune and the New Indian Express.
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Janu Unni is a former chief executive at Janabharati.
It was the first time I attended the funeral service of a Catholic priest. The two-hour-long service was a fitting tribute to Fr. Xavier Vadakkekara (72), whose life was an open book. The Krist Raja Church at Masuri in Uttar Pradesh was packed to capacity with his family members, priests, nuns, and friends from all walks of life.
The chief celebrant, Bishop Bhaskar Jesuraj of the Meerut Diocese, delivered a deeply touching homily. Everyone who spokeâwhether it was Fr. Suresh Mathew, former editor of Indian Currents, his nephew, or othersâhighlighted Fr. Xavierâs immense contributions to the Church, society, and the many lives he touched.
A few years from now, it may be difficult to believe that a man like Fr. Xavier Vadakkekara once lived in flesh and blood. To paraphrase Albert Einsteinâs words after Mahatma Gandhiâs assassination, such lives leave an indelible mark even as time moves on.
Though my association with him spanned three decades, I never fully grasped the pioneering work he didâas an editor in the field of media, a publisher of books, and a man of sterling character who treated everyone with respect, regardless of their social status or position. He was truly a lover of mankind.
Fr. Xavier walked in the footsteps of St. Francis of Assisi, who embraced a life of simplicity while striving for great things in service of God. He embodied this spirit, living frugally yet dedicating himself to the highest ideals of love, humility, and compassion.
Let me conclude with an anecdote that reflects the kind of person he was. Once, I invited Fr. Xavier to my house for dinner. To ensure he had company while I was busy serving food, I also invited my friend and fellow editor, Mr Chacko Thomas.
During their conversation, Fr. Xavier suddenly realised that he had solemnised Mr. Thomasâs wedding. His joy was palpable when he learned that Mr Thomas, his wife, and their two children were all doing well. From that moment on, the two remained friends until Mr. Thomas retired from the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) and returned to Kerala.
To honor his remarkable life, Kerala Club, Delhi, has decided to host a memorial event on Friday, March 21, at 6:30 p.m. at the Club premises (M-67, Connaught Place). All are cordially invited to join in remembering and celebrating the life of Fr. Xavier Vadakkekara.