Indore Bishop Dr. Chacko Thottumarickal celebrates his 75th birthday on January 7, 2024, a milestone occasion that brings prayers, blessings and good wishes from throughout the Diocese. By walking the path of sacrifice, love and selfless service, his life became an immortal story to be told and retold.
Born on January 7, 1949, in the quaint village of Kalloorkad, nestled within the Kothamangalam Diocese in Kerala, Bishop Chacko Thottumarickal SVD emerged as a beacon of faith and service over his 75 years of life.
His voyage in the service of God commenced in 1964 when he joined the Society of the Divine Word (SVD) in Kerala. His educational journey saw him pursuing a pre-degree course at St. Berchmans's College Changanacherry and later heading to Palda, Indore, in July 1966 for juniorate studies.
Taking his first vow on April 27, 1969, marked a pivotal moment in his commitment to the divine cause. Further academic endeavors led him to Pontifical Atheneum in Pune, where he delved into Philosophy (1969-71), and later to Gujarati College in Indore, obtaining a B.Sc. from the University of Indore (1971-74).
As part of his ministry, he dedicated himself to teaching at St. Stephen's High School in Dohad, Gujarat, during the years 1974-76. His theological studies continued at the Pontifical Atheneum in Pune until 1979 when he was ordained as a Priest on May 11, 1979, in his hometown Kalloorkad, Kerala, under the guidance of Bishop George Punnakottil.
Bishop Chacko spent the initial seven years of his priesthood serving in Jhabua, Madhya Pradesh, before pursuing advanced studies in Communication at the University of Leicester, UK, and a diploma in Printing and Publishing from the London College of Printing (1987-89).
His administrative prowess shone through as he managed the Sat Prachar Press in Indore from 1989 to 2006. His leadership was further acknowledged when he was elected twice as the Provincial Superior of the Society of the Divine Word, Central India Province, in Indore (1996-2002).
Recognizing his dedication and capabilities, he was appointed as the Bishop of the newly formed Jhabua diocese on March 25, 2002. The solemn ordination took place on June 7, 2002, at Meghnagar, under the tutelage of the late Bishop George Anathil SVD of Indore.
Following Bishop George Anathil's retirement, Bishop Chacko was transferred to the Indore Diocese and officially installed as its third bishop on December 7, 2008, marking a new chapter in his unwavering commitment to serve the Church.
As Bishop Chacko Thottumarickal SVD commemorates his 75th birthday, his life stands as a testimony to faith, dedication, and unyielding service to God and humanity, shaping communities and inspiring countless individuals on their spiritual journeys
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