Fr. Mathew Pullattu was born in Poovarani, Kottayam, in the diocese of Palai, on 29th April, 1935. He was a man of surprises. Even his joining the Society was a big surprise. After his B.Sc. Maths degree from St. Thomas College Palai, he headed to St Joseph’s College, Tiruchirapally, for pursuing his studies, but ended up in the Jesuit Novitiate in Beschi, Dindigul. After his novitiate and Juniorate there, he was sent for M.Sc. to Trichy. After his philosophy studies in Shembaganur, he was assigned for Regency in St. Xavier’s College, Trivandrum, and later went for his theology in Kurseong. He got ordained on 22nd March, 1969.
When the Kerala Province opened a new mission in Mizoram, Matthew became a pioneer missionary taking charge of Springdale School. He was appointed Provincial of Kerala, from 1979-1985 and during his tenure he organised an evaluation of all our educational institutions. He brought Nirmala ITI from Pilathara to Pariyaram. He effected a twinning between the Provinces of Kerala and Japan and sent two of our men to Japan. He was Rector of Satya Nilayam and later in charge of the Pre-Novices. He was the Province Treasurer, during which time he built up the Arcae. He was the manager of Sarvodaya School, Eachome, staying at Pachilakad. He used to undertake tough jobs and do them with utter sincerity and commitment. He was very sober, kind and loving and had a special love for the poor and the marginalized. He was strict with himself and very generous with others. He did not hide his talents, but multiplied them tenfold. He lived for others all through and was instrumental to bring goodness and graces to many.
J. Kallepallil, SJ
