VINAYA BHAVAN SEMINARY: THAMARASSERY

When North East was raised to a Vice-Province, it became a necessity to have minor seminary to promote vocations in Kerala. The Vice Provincial congress held in 1987 made a decision to seek permission of the Superior General to start a Minor Seminary of its own in Kerala. With the consent of Fr Emile Mayoraz, the Superior General, it was decided to have a minor seminary in Thamarassery. Fr. Sebastian Paredom was assigned the task of looking for a suitable land. After weighing several options, the present land of 25 acres of rubber estate was purchased at Pullanimedu, Thamarassery in the Syro-Malabar diocese of Thamarassery in 1988. The construction of the building was overseen by Fr. Jose Mundoly. The seminary was named as Vinaya Bhavan and it began to be operative with Fr. Jose Mundoly as its first Rector. The first batch of seminarians was admitted in 1989. Frs Chacko Varapadavil, Fr George Vettukattil and DevasiaManalel were the staff members. Augustine Vellaramkuzhy, joined the staff as Dean of Studies in 1990. The staff also engage themselves in pastoral works in and around Thamarassery diocese.

Staff members: Frs Pius Nellianiyil (1992-1998 and 2000-), Mathew Pallichankudiyil (1994-1996 & 2014-till date), AthnasKerketta (1995-1996), Sudhir Kullu (2000-2003), John Edacherrypauvath (2000-2001), Varghese Chettupuzhakaren (2002-2003), Mhonchumo Philip (2003- 2007), George Pekkadankuzhiyil (2008-2009), Gracious Chirattolickal (2008-2010), Philip Kurisummoottil (2009- 2010), George Vettukattil (2009-2012) and George Vadakkeperincherimannil (2013-2015) Spiritual Directors: Frs Joseph Kizhakkeveed (2003-2004 and 2010-2013), Jose Thenganakunnel. Vice Rector: Fr Joseph Kannamangalath (2012-2014)