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Rev. Fr. Michael Panachikal VC : A Prophet of God’s Love Returns to the Father

The Vincentian Congregation and countless faithful across India and abroad bid a tearful farewell to Rev. Fr. Michael Panachikal VC, one of the most influential retreat preachers, spiritual writers, hymnists, and media evangelizers of our time. Fr. Michael was called to his eternal reward on 16 June 2026 at the age of 77, leaving behind a rich spiritual legacy that continues to inspire generations. For more than five decades, he dedicated his life wholeheartedly to the service of God and His people, driven by a singular passion: proclaiming the unconditional love, mercy, and saving presence of God.

A Life Dedicated to Evangelization

Fr. Michael's priestly life cannot be confined to a single ministry. He was a preacher, retreat master, spiritual guide, author, lyricist, dramatist, media pioneer, and missionary disciple. Through every avenue available to him, he sought to lead people into a personal encounter with Jesus Christ.

His central message remained constant throughout his life:

"God is not a God who punishes, but a loving Father who saves humanity through Christ."

This profound conviction touched countless hearts and transformed innumerable lives, making him one of the most sought-after retreat preachers in the Catholic Church in India.

A Farewell Marked by Love and Gratitude

Parithrana Retreat Centre, Adichira. From the early hours of the morning, streams of priests, religious, and faithful arrived to pay their final respects. The Retreat Centre became a place of prayer, remembrance, and thanksgiving as thousands gathered to honour a priest who had profoundly touched their lives through his preaching, music, writings, and spiritual guidance.

The mortal remains arrived at the Retreat Centre at 8:30 a.m., followed by funeral prayers and public homage. Throughout the day, an unceasing flow of mourners offered their prayers and heartfelt gratitude for the remarkable life and ministry of this beloved Vincentian priest.

The solemn Requiem Mass was celebrated by His Excellency Mar George Madathikandathil, Bishop of Kothamangalam Diocese. Among the principal concelebrants were Bishop Chacko Thottumarickal, SVD, Bishop Emeritus of Indore; Very Rev. Fr. Paul Puthuva; Very Rev. Fr. Sebastian Thundathikunnel; Rev. Fr. Biju Moonjely; and Rev. Fr. Edattu Joseph Sr., together with a large number of priests from various dioceses and religious congregations.

In his homily, Rev. Fr. Tony Plavunilkunnathil VC reflected on Fr. Michael’s extraordinary passion for the People of God and his unwavering commitment to using the gifts and charisms entrusted to him by the Lord for the service of the Church. He also recalled with gratitude the deep spiritual preparation with which Fr. Michael had awaited his final journey to the Father’s house, witnessing throughout his life to a profound trust in God’s mercy.

The final funeral rites were presided over by His Grace Mar Thomas Tharayil, Archbishop of Changanacherry Archdiocese, who led the concluding prayers before the burial. One of the most moving moments of the ceremony was the funeral procession, during which renowned singers Kester and Mithula Michael rendered some of Fr. Michael’s beloved compositions. As the hymn “Thirunama Keerthanam Paaduvan” echoed through the gathering, the entire congregation joined in singing with deep emotion, transforming the procession into a heartfelt tribute to the priest whose songs had nourished the faith of generations.

The large attendance of bishops, clergy, religious, benefactors, former retreatants, musicians, media personnel, and faithful from various parts of the country bore eloquent witness to the profound impact Fr. Michael had on the Church and society. Many came not merely to mourn his passing, but to celebrate a life generously poured out in the service of God and His people. The overwhelming participation at the funeral stood as a fitting testament to the enduring legacy of a priest who spent more than five decades proclaiming God's love, mercy, and salvation.

A Legacy That Lives On

Fr. Michael Panachikal VC belonged to that rare group of individuals whose influence extends far beyond their lifetime. His words continue to be read, his songs continue to be sung, his retreats continue to bear fruit, and his message continues to resonate in the hearts of believers.

As the Vincentian Congregation and the wider Church commend his soul to the loving embrace of the Father, we give thanks for a life beautifully lived for God.

"Well done, good and faithful servant; enter into the joy of your Lord." (Mt 25:23)