Capuchin Priest’s Fr. Theophine's Cause Advances as Church Recognises Servant of God at Ponnurunni, Kerala

Ponnurunni, Kerala, February 22, 2026— The Catholic community in Kerala has marked a significant milestone in the journey toward sainthood for Capuchin priest Fr. Theophane OFM Cap, whose life of humility and pastoral service has been formally recognised by the Catholic Church with the declaration of “Servant of God.”

The recognition follows the official opening of his cause for canonisation in 2017, affirming the priest’s enduring reputation for holiness and initiating the formal process that could eventually lead to beatification and sainthood. Church authorities say the development reflects decades of persistent devotion among the faithful who continue to seek his intercession.

Fr. Theophane, born Michael on 20 July 1913 in Kodungalloor in Thrissur district, entered the Order of Friars Minor Capuchin at a young age. After his ordination, he dedicated his ministry to pastoral service across Kerala, becoming widely known for his simplicity of life, spiritual counsel and compassionate outreach to the poor and the suffering.

He served for several years at the Capuchin Ashram in Ponnurunni, where he ministered to countless families through prayer, guidance and pastoral care despite persistent health challenges. He died on 4 April 1968 at the age of 55 and was laid to rest at the ashram, which has since become a prominent centre of prayer and pilgrimage.

According to Fr. Joseph Solomon, provincial of the St. Francis province, the priest is the first Capuchin friar from India to be granted the title of Servant of God. Speaking to Catholic Connect, he attributed the progress of the cause to the sustained testimony of the faithful who experienced Fr. Theophane’s spiritual influence during his lifetime.

What began as a modest local remembrance of his death anniversary has grown into a major annual gathering drawing thousands of devotees. The observance typically includes a Requiem Mass followed by a communal meal offered to all pilgrims, reflecting the charitable spirit that marked the priest’s ministry.

Today, the Ponnurunni shrine continues to attract devotees from across Kerala and beyond, particularly during the annual commemoration of his passing. For many, the declaration of Servant of God has strengthened devotion to the humble Capuchin priest whose legacy of service, faith and compassion continues to resonate decades after his death.

Capuchin Priest’s Fr. Theophine's Cause Advances as Church Recognises Servant of God at Ponnurunni, Kerala

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