Lucas had consistency and commitment right from his childhood till he breathed last on 27th January 2022. He was an excellent student, effective teacher, energetic principal, efficient administrator and a hard worker in the vineyard of the Lord.
Lucas was an intelligent and gifted person. His ability to remain focused, hard work and dedication made him succeed. He could sit for many hours studying or working. Hard work and dedication were in his blood. He expected the best from others, particularly from his students. This earned him the reputation of a reliable, dependable, trustworthy and faithful servant of the Lord.
Lucas was a passionate person be it studying, learning, teaching, playing basketball or mastering the Gujarati language. Teaching Gujarati was closest to his heart and he did it professionally. His energy, driving force and fire never grew cold. No alarm clock was needed to wake up Lucas. Passion woke him up.
The Ignatian ideal that Lucas was closest to, was Magis. He conveyed the spirit of a restless, irresistible desire for greater things. This made Lucas an AUTHENTIC Jesuit. Lucas kept giving without counting the cost. He knew no rest and relaxation even to socialize and enjoy. He was consumed by a restlessness for God`s work and the Lord blessed him with an Eternal Rest without making him wait much.
Lucas was an innovative and creative thinker. He always attempted new perspectives and unconventional ways. In times of criticism and failures, he explored new possibilities and avenues, of course for the Glory of God.
Born on 3rd February 1962, in a beautiful village of Tamil Nadu, he was the last of five siblings. He entered the Society on 25th July 1982 and was ordained on 28th December 1995. Lucas was a perfectionistic and tough soldier with a tender, simple and humble heart. His love for children and doing menial works such as washing the toilets of students in the schools, speak volumes of his genuine humanness. May this utterly human soul rest in peace!
Ambrose Vedam, SJ
