Former YCS YSM National Chaplain Fr. Michael Menamparambil Passes Away at 85

Pala, Kerala April 20, 2026: The Young Catholic Students (YCS) and Young Students Movement (YSM) India mourn the passing of Fr. Michael Menamparambil, who died peacefully at the age of 85 after decades of dedicated service to the Church and society.

Hailing from Velliyeppally, Fr. Michael was widely respected as a visionary leader and compassionate mentor who devoted his life to nurturing the faith and leadership of young people. His legacy is deeply rooted in spiritual guidance and youth empowerment.

Fr. Michael served as the National Chaplain of YCS and YSM India from 1983 to 1989, where he played a pivotal role in shaping the lives of students across India. Earlier in his ministry, he served as the Tamil Nadu Regional Chaplain, where he was known for his humility, intelligence, and approachability to students and animators.

Recalling his association with Fr. Michael, John Siddham (John S B) said, “I have fond memories working with him when I worked for YCS in the northern region in the late 1970s. He was the TN regional chaplain then. A humble man, deeply spiritual, intelligent, with great humility, and very approachable to students and animators. A life he lived in full, and may his legacy continue to live and inspire.”

His ministry also included a period of service at the Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health, Vailankanni, from 2014 to 2016.

The mortal remains of Fr. Michael Menamparambil were brought to the Menamparambil ancestral house on Monday at 9:00 AM for public homage. Friends, former students, and parishioners are invited to pay their final respects.

The funeral service will commence at the residence at 4:00 PM, followed by interment in the family vault at St. Mary’s Cathedral, Pala, in Kottayam district.

He is survived by his siblings: Archbishop Thomas Menamparambil (Retired), Jose M.C., Kochuthresiamma Cyriac Vattakkavil, Fr. M.C. George (Manipur), Alex, and Rosamma Sebastian Thekkemury.

The Menamparambil family and the YCS YSM India request prayers for the departed soul as he enters eternal rest.

By Catholic Connect Reporter