My sanctuary of faith

My beloved parish church, St. Thomas Malankara Catholic Church, holds an

exceptionally dear place in my heart. It has been a steadfast presence in my life since my earliest
recollections, and I have come to hold the invaluable lessons and values it has bestowed upon
me in the highest regard. In this sacred place, idioms from the Bible, such as "walking in the
light" (1 John 1:7) and "being the salt of the earth" (Matthew 5:13), have been brought to life.
One of the most significant facets of my church journey has been the cultivation of
unwavering faith. From my childhood, my church instilled within me a profound sense of
spirituality and devotion, firmly rooting me in the rich soil of faith. It was within these hallowed
walls that I first comprehended the profound significance of faith, gaining a strong spiritual
foundation that has guided me through life's many twists and turns. My church also played a
pivotal role in guiding me towards a path of service and unwavering dedication to my faith. It
was here, within the embrace of my church community, that I felt the divine calling to join the
seminary—an epiphany that has since profoundly shaped my life's course. The church provided
the necessary support and spiritual compass to embark on this faith-filled journey, a decision I
hold dear and eternally cherish. The Sunday school classes at my parish served as the
cornerstone of my Catholic upbringing. These classes, like a compass pointing north, helped
me navigate the core tenets of Catholicism, imparting a strong moral foundation that continues
to illuminate my life's path. Guided by idioms like "faith without works is dead" (James 2:26),
my parish church ensured that faith was not merely an abstract concept but a living, breathing
force that influenced my actions and decisions.
One of the most remarkable attributes of my parish church has been the close-knit bond
between the parish priests and our vibrant community. Over the years, the priests have been
more than spiritual leaders; they have been our confidants, mentors, and friends. Their steadfast
commitment to the parish has been a wellspring of inspiration for me. Their unwavering
guidance and mentorship have been invaluable in shaping my understanding of the priesthood's
sacred responsibilities. Every individual I have had the privilege to meet within my parish
community has contributed in their unique way to my journey toward the holy priesthood.
Their prayer, unyielding support, encouragement, and shared faith have been a beacon of light
propelling me forward with unwavering dedication and sincerity.
St. Thomas Malankara Catholic Church, Ichilampady, my cherished parish, has been a
sanctuary of faith, enlightenment, and growth for me. It has equipped me with the necessary
tools and values to embark on a lifelong journey of service to my faith and my community. The
teachings, the priests, and the parishioners have all played a vital role in shaping my
unwavering faith, and I am profoundly grateful to have been a part of this remarkable spiritual
family. I am thankful to God for everything.