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- Title
VENERABLE JOSEPH VITHAYATHIL: A MODEL FOR SPIRITUAL DIRECTORS: Theological and Spiritual Investigation on His Life and Writings.
- Authors
Varghese, Vinaya
- Abstract
The objective of this study is to examine Venerable Joseph Vithayathil, who is considered and recognized as one of the most zealous and enthusiastic priests belonging to the Syro-Malabar Church in India and who has dedicated himself entirely to the ministry of spiritual direction. The theological and spiritual study of the life and writings of Fr. Joseph Vithayathil proves that, first of all, he was a guide for himself. His ascetic way of life, the rigorous observances of daily spiritual exercises and his intimacy with Jesus in the Eucharist, etc. stimulated him to reach the inner energy to be an inspiration and a guide for all. During the seventy years of his priestly life, through his pastoral ministry of spiritual direction, he led many on the path of holiness. He dedicated a great deal of time and energy to the work of spiritual direction, trying to lead others to a deeper permeation of the mystery of God's love in their lives. This article attempts to present Fr. Joseph Vithayathil as a competent spiritual director in three areas of his priestly ministry. Firstly, as spiritual director of Blessed Mariam Thresia, a mystic, founder of the Congregation of the Holy Family (CHF), secondly, as co-founder and spiritual guide of the sisters of the Holy Family and, thirdly, as parish priest who led his people like a good shepherd through the green pastures. This study portrays his virtuous life as a model for all priests and consecrated persons who face many challenges in their pastoral ministry and who strive to become more competent and holy spiritual guides.
- Subjects
CHURCH history; SPIRITUAL direction -- Christianity; SPIRITUAL directors; VIRTUES; JESUS Christ -- Family
- Publication
Miscellanea Francescana, 2019, Vol 119, Issue 1/2, p127
- ISSN
0026-587X
- Publication type
Article