Thrissur : Fr. Jose Chittilapilly, who scripted history becoming SFI representative and then Chairman, has passed away aged 71. He was leading a largely retired life at Priest Home inside the campus of Jubilee Mission Medical College. Funeral Thursday 2 pm noon at Mundoor Church prior to which, Fr. Chittilapilly will be laid at the Priest Home and at his brother’s residence in Munoor for public homage.
Fr. Jose joined St. Thomas College for M. A(Economics ) in 1981 and won college elections as SFI candidate in 1982. Following this, he was relieved of his church duties. Fr. Chittilapilly re-defined Bible for the socio-cultural struggles of the society and also shared his thoughts on various freedom movements.
Around that time, Fr. Chittilapilly became afflicted by brain cancer. Arch Bishop Mar Joseph Kandukulam Jose visited him while at treatment in Veloor. Later on recovering from the illness, he was entrusted with church duties. Fr. Chittilapilly made valuable contribution toward 1990 literacy drive, Sampoorna Saksharata. For his literacy efforts in Bihar, Fr. Chittilapilly was conferred head position of Bharat Gyan-Vigyan council. In those days, he shared a close friendship with Fr. Stan Swamy. Fr. Chittilapilly was honored with Anjeri Simon Brito Award two years ago. The distinguished priest was son of Late Thomas and Kathrina from Chittilapilly House in Mattom.
