Catholic Priest Shines at WRPF Powerlifting Nationals in Pune

Pune, December 23, 2024: Father Denis Joseph, a Catholic priest serving in the Diocese of Poona emerged victorious at the WRPF National Powerlifting Championship held in Pune from December 20 to 22. Fr. Denis secured three medals in the national-level competition, competing in the squat, bench press, and deadlift events. With these accomplishments, he has qualified for the WRPF Asian Powerlifting Championship scheduled to take place in Dubai and Nepal in 2025.

Fr. Denis, who serves as Assistant Parish priest at Saint Ignatius Church, Khadki, Pune, began his journey in powerlifting nearly a year and a half ago. His venture into the sport was inspired by a desire to evangelize youth through health and fitness. “Health is divine,” says Fr. Denis, who uses his dedication to powerlifting as a medium to inspire young people to adopt healthier lifestyles while staying connected to their faith.

Under the guidance of his coach, Sir Gopi, Fr. Denis trained rigorously for the national championship, spending two and a half hours daily in preparation. His hard work and dedication reaped a big harvest as he successfully completed all three attempts in each of the three powerlifting events at the competition. Sharing how his faith supported him during the competition, he said that he had a rosary around his neck that provided him with strength and the protection of Mother Mary.

Along with his pastoral duties at his parish, Fr. Denis also serves as principal at Saint Joseph Boys High School in Khadki. His achievements in powerlifting have resonated deeply with students at the school, where the theme for the academic year is “Health is Divine.” Although he has not yet started training students in powerlifting, Fr. Denis’ success has inspired many to take their health and fitness more seriously. Students now view him as a role model, drawing inspiration from his ability to balance his priestly duties, school administration, and athletic pursuits.

Reflecting on his dual roles as a priest and a powerlifter, Fr. Denis emphasizes the importance of health in ministry. “A healthy priest can evangelize more and even better,” he says. Fr. Denis’ daily routine begins at 3 a.m., with time devoted to prayer and contemplation. This is followed by powerlifting training sessions at 4 am where he trains rigorously for two and a half hours daily. He then celebrates Holy Mass at 7 a.m. after which he starts his duties at the school at 8 a.m. Most of his day is spent at the school where he engages in administrative duties till 4 p.m.

Looking ahead to the Asian championship, Fr. Denis plans to seek divine guidance before committing to the competition. “Through prayer and the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, I will discern whether to participate,” he said. 

Through his journey, Fr. Denis emphasizes that health and faith go hand in hand. “A healthy Catholic can evangelize better,” he asserts. He believes his participation in powerlifting competitions is a new and dynamic way to inspire and connect with youth, demonstrating that faith and modern pursuits can coexist harmoniously. His remarkable achievements not only bring honor to his parish but also showcase the transformative power of faith and fitness.

By Steve Antao