Fr. Joseph Thayil left us on 30 September 2020, aged 90. But he leaves behind fond memories with people who associated with him. He was known for his skill in counselling and guidance, and so he spent his life mostly in the twin fields of religious formation and Psycho-spiritual counselling. He was Director of Juniors, Novice Master, Spiritual Guide to the philosophy students, and Tertian Instructor. He was a much-appreciated Retreat Director too. In between, he was Rector of Christ Hall Kozhikode, Superior of Sameeksha and RTC Kalady, and Socius to the Provincial. But all through these, he continued his passion for counselling and spiritual direction. He was sought after by many religious congregations as a reliable guru and amiable guide. He had an uncanny talent to untangle even the most twisted knots in human hearts. He has authored two Malayalam books on Ignatian spirituality, ‘Adyatmika Sadhana’ and ‘Antharika Swathatryam’.
Fr. Joe served as Programme Director of SRC at Kozhikode for 15 years. Working with him in group therapy sessions, I used to marvel at his gentle but firm ways of challenging the participants to look at life differently. He was a real guru but with no external trappings of greatness. That is why people felt attracted to him. He was an amazing person to deal with, and more, to live with. In 2018, when he reached 88, he withdrew from active ministry and moved to Sangamam, the house for senior Jesuits in Kozhikode. When I met him there recently, I noticed that his very presence radiated joy and contentment. “It is time to move out and so here I am”, he seemed to be saying. No regrets, no complaints. Thank you, Joe, for leaving many good memories behind for our nourishment.
- Ephrem Thomas, SJ
