Fr. Joe Thadavanal was born on 10 April 1943 in Teekoy, Kerala. He was ordained in 1975. He was Rector of XTTI, Patna, Papal Seminary, Pune, Khrist Raja High School, Bettiah and St. Xavier’s College of Management and Technology, Patna. He was the South Asian Assistancy Delegate for formation and Director of Navjyoti Niketan, Patna.

Fr. Joe was well known and much loved by many people in India and abroad, especially in Bihar. He shared his life and love with all those whom he came in contact with. He was a wonderful community man who enjoyed the company of others. His gentle smile, warmth and genial presence endeared him to many people.

Fr. Joe was known for his leadership qualities. Both the Patna province and the South Asian Assistancy made good use of his abilities to lead and inspire. He remained in leadership positions for 39 years. He was very creative and optimistic. He definitely was a man of vision and a go-getter. Fr. Joe was a motivator and a youth leader. He was a man of wisdom, courage, deep faith in God and dedicated service to people. He was fortunate to shake hands with St. John Paul II, who visited Pune, while Fr. Joe was the Rector of Papal Seminary, Pune.

Fr. Joe lived a good and intense life. He has left a lasting legacy of love and kindness that will continue to inspire us and the coming generations.

– Jose Thayil, SJ