Monthly Talk Series on the Pallottine Journey of 75 Years in India

Monthly Talk Series on the Pallottine Journey of 75 Years in India

The second talk in our Monthly Talk Series was held on 31 July 2025 at 7:00 PM in the Elisabeth Sanna Hall, Pallotti Nagar. The evening’s speaker, Rev Fr Paul Chandrankunnel, captivated the gathering with his presentation on “Decoding Decades: Pallottine Journey from 1961 to 1971, with a Focus on Mission and Formation.” The event saw the warm presence of fathers, brothers, sisters, and UAC members, and through our YouTube live-stream, confreres, seminarians, and UAC members from across India and beyond joined in, making it a truly wide-reaching moment of learning and communion. We extend heartfelt gratitude and congratulations to the Jubilee Committee, ably led by Fr Siju Jose Kuliraniyil, to Fr Paul for his insightful sharing, and to all who contributed to the success of this meaningful evening.

Fr Paul’s reflection transported us to the early decade of Indian Pallottine history, highlighting how Fr Lawrence Scheu and Fr Francis Werner Hunold, commissioned by the Sacred Heart Province, Germany, and encouraged by Pope Pius XII and Rector General Fr Wojcieck Turowski, braved a 32-day voyage to India. Despite severe human and material resource shortages, ill health, and even discouragement from ecclesiastical authorities to abandon the mission, they remained undeterred. Fr Paul evoked the stirring words of Venerable Fr Scheu: “Whatever happens, we will remain.” These words, spoken in the face of adversity, proclaimed an unwavering faith, courage, and willingness to sacrifice everything for the mission. May this spirit of perseverance and faith continue to inspire us, echoing in our hearts, shaping our memory and imagination, and fuelling our dreams for the future.