Born on 8 Dec 1928, at Cheranalloor, in the diocese of Ernakulam–Angamaly, Fr Joseph Chittooparambil, SJ was ordained a priest on 11 March 1958. A year after his Ordination, he joined the Jesuit Novitiate at Beschi College, Dindigul. He took his Final Vows on 29 December 1971, at Christ Hall. He was engaged in a variety of ministries. A Pastor in different parishes of the undivided Kozhikode Diocese in Kannur, Kozhikode and Wayanad Districts, he streamlined Nirmala ITC and started NCVT courses at Pilathara in 1976. He was also Hostel Warden, Minister and Superior.
In cash and kind he helped the young and old, men and women, from all walks of life. He travelled round the globe to ensure support for his ministries. From 2015, he was at Christ Hall Infirmary, leading an exemplary life, doing a lot of manual work. He was available at the Confessional any time of the day. Fr Chittoo will be ever remembered for his ability to adapt and adjust to persons, places, and ministries. He cheerfully endured his ailments and the limitations of old age. He was also known for his perseverance in his commitments. Known for his simplicity of life, he was a true devotee of Our Lady. He desired to die on a Saturday. I believe that the Blessed Mother came to his deathbed on Saturday, the eve of the Feast of Christ the King, 25 November 2023 and carried him to our heavenly Father at 0.20 hrs, on 26.
– Jose Thaiparambil, SJ
