On 18th March 2022, we lost Rev. Fr. Philip Thayil, a true son of Saint Ignatius of Loyola. He hailed from Kiliroor in Kottayam Dist. He joined the Society on 31st July 1956. He studied Philosophy in Shembaganur, did College in Calicut, and theology in Kurseong. He was ordained a priest on 14th March 1970. As a Jesuit, he served as Rector, Superior, Headmaster, Principal, and Boarding Director in different Jesuit Schools, and as Manager at Sarvodaya, Wayanad. He was in Snehabhavan, Kottayam as Board Member, and in charge of Snehabhavan Vocational Training Centre, Aimanom for about ten years.
Fr. Philip was a joyful person and instilled the same spirit into his students, friends, relatives, Jesuits and all who came into his life. As a teacher, he guided thousands of students to achieve excellence
in their lives. He integrated Ignatian Spirituality into his personal life so deep, that it permeated into all realms of his life. Those who lived and associated with him would say in one voice that they have been influenced by him. He was a humble and simple person. He was ever available and extended his good will to all who came into contact with. He had a special devotion to the Blessed Sacrament, and quite often I witnessed his gift of tears, during Mass.
Fr. Philip was very loyal to the Society of Jesus, dedicated his life spending his energy, time and knowledge to accomplish the tasks bestowed on his shoulder by his Superiors. He joined hands with the late Fr. Thengumpally, for the cause of the differently-abled and their families. To my reading, he was a pro-life promoter and always stood by the disadvantaged persons.
Sunny Mathew, SJ
