Rev. Fr. Abraham Joseph Kanneeleth Passes Away at 87

Thiruvananthapuram:

The Syro-Malankara Catholic Church mourns the loss of Fr. Abraham Joseph Kanneeleth, who passed away on 9th July 2024 at the age of 87. Fr. Abraham, a devoted priest of the Thiruvananthapuram Major Archdiocese, was known for his unwavering faith and dedication to the church and its community.

Fr. Abraham was born in 1936 to Mathai and Mariamma in the small village of Kanneeleth. He attended his early schooling at St. John’s School in Anchal. It was here that his calling to serve the Church began to take shape. After completing his seminary education, he was ordained on May 23, 1968, marking the start of a devoted journey in the priesthood.

His years in Anchal were particularly impactful. As the parish priest at St. George’s Church, he was instrumental in initiating several community upliftment programs. He focused on education, establishing scholarships for underprivileged students and setting up vocational training centers to empower local youth. His efforts in Anchal left a lasting legacy, with many remembering him as a guiding light who brought about significant positive changes in their lives.

Throughout his life, Fr. Abraham was known for his simplicity, humility, and profound spirituality. His leadership was marked by a focus on community building and nurturing faith among parishioners. He was particularly instrumental in supporting the educational pursuits of underprivileged children, fostering a spirit of learning and growth.

Funeral Services

The funeral services will take place as follows:

July 10, 2024:

• 3:00 PM: Gathering at St. John’s Kollamkavu Residence.
• 4:00 PM: Procession to the Cathedral.
• 4:30 PM: Evening prayer led by Archbishop Thomas Mar Koorilos.
• 5:30 PM: Holy Mass celebrated by Bishop Joseph Mar Thomas.
• 6:30 PM: Night vigil prayer by Bishop Samuel Mar Irenios.
• 9:00 PM: Lamentation prayer by Bishop Yoohanon Mar Chrysostom.
• 10:30 PM: Final prayers by Bishop Abraham Mar Julios.

July 11, 2024:

• 7:30 AM: Morning prayer at the Sacred Heart Malankara Catholic Church, Mudapuram.
• 9:00 AM: Holy Mass led by Archbishop Thomas Mar Koorilos.
• 10:00 AM: Procession to St. Mary’s Malankara Catholic Church, Kalliyara.
• 10:30 AM: Final rites and committal service led by Major Archbishop Baselios Cardinal Cleemis Catholicos.

Attendees

The services will be attended by prominent Church leaders including:

• Major Archbishop Baselios Cardinal Cleemis Catholicos
• Archbishop Thomas Mar Koorilos
• Bishop Joseph Mar Thomas
• Bishop Samuel Mar Irenios
• Bishop Yoohanon Mar Chrysostom
• Bishop Abraham Mar Julios

Rev. Fr. Abraham’s lifetime of service and spiritual guidance has left an indelible mark on the community. His unwavering faith and compassion will be fondly remembered and deeply missed by the clergy and laity alike.