From Ordination to Global Evangelization: Fr. Augustine Vallooran’s 50-Year Spiritual Legacy

Muringoor, August 29, 2024: Fr. Augustine Vallooran, the Director of Divine Retreat Centre, Muringoor, Kerala recently celebrated the 50th anniversary of his ordination. In a special anniversary episode telecast by Goodness TV, Fr. Vallooran mentions that his journey began in his parish church, where he experienced a profound sense of God's love. This became the foundation of his lifelong devotion to Christ.  

Throughout his ministry, Fr. Vallooran has been a guiding light, especially during his time as the Rector at St. Joseph's Pontifical Seminary, Aluva where he influenced countless seminarians. “The church has a very clear idea who a priest must be. A priest must be ‘Alter Christus’ another Christ and that means all the spiritual attitudes of Jesus Christ must enter the minds and hearts of the seminarians.” He says about his guiding philosophy as a priest.  

His shift towards direct evangelization marked a significant chapter in his life, leading to the establishment of the Divine Retreat Centre, Muringoor where he dedicated over 35 years to preaching and serving the faithful. Fr. Vallooran's ministry is characterized by a deep commitment to spreading the Gospel and guiding others in their spiritual journeys. Many have experienced miraculous healings and profound spiritual renewal through his prayers and teachings. 

Fr. Vallooran finished his Doctorate in Philosophy of Religion from Pontifical Gregorian University, Rome where he completed his thesis with the highest distinction.  

“I was studying the philosophies and religious experiences of the East and the West, and one thing became clear to me, that Jesus Christ is the treasure that all were searching for, and therefore I named my thesis ‘In Search of the Absolute’. I was very happy that my thesis was blessed by His Holiness Pope John Paul II and later released in India by Dr. Shankar Dayal Sharma, who was then the President of India.” he tells Goodness TV. 

His influence extends beyond the confines of the Divine Retreat Centre, as he has inspired both laypeople and priests to carry forward the mission of evangelization globally.  

As he celebrates this milestone, Fr. Vallooran continues to inspire and lead, embodying the very essence of priesthood as a reflection of Christ.

By Catholic Connect Reporter