- 20 May, 2025
It takes remarkable courage to step away from a life of certainty and embrace the unknown. Fr. Arun Philip Simon SJ, once a promising Ph.D. scholar at IIT Mumbai, did just that. He left behind a bright future in science to follow his calling as a Jesuit priest.
A Foundation of Faith
Born into a devout Catholic family in Kerala, Fr. Arun's faith was instilled in him from an early age. Though the thought of priesthood occasionally crossed his mind, he excelled academically and pursued the conventional path of higher education.
After completing Class 12, he pursued a degree in Chemical Engineering from NIT Rourkela, Odisha. After completing his course, he traveled to Mumbai in 2008 for further studies at IIT-Mumbai. He later began pursuing a PhD at the same institution—a dream for many.
Answering the Call
While in Mumbai, Fr. Arun became involved with Jesus Youth, a Catholic movement that nurtures faith among young people. As months went by, due to various experiences, an inner restlessness grew in Arun. A deeper question began to take root in his mind: “What do I truly want to do with my life? Or rather, what does God want for me?”
This moment of introspection became a turning point for Arun. Initially considering becoming a lay missionary, he also explored the possibility of joining a religious congregation or serving as a diocesan priest.
Seeking clarity, he spoke to Fr. Brian, the then vocation promoter of the Jesuits at Vinayalaya, the Jesuit provincial house in Mumbai. “I told Father Brian about my thoughts, and he suggested that I attend a ‘discernment retreat." Arun recalls.
Attending the discernment retreat proved life-changing for Arun. “By the end of the retreat, I was certain—God was calling me,” he says.
Breaking the News
Deciding to join the Jesuits and pursue the priesthood was one thing for Arun, and telling his parents was another. “I remember the evening I told them, ‘I am planning to leave my studies and join the Jesuits to become a priest.’ They were completely shocked—they thought I had lost my mind,” he shares.
His parents, both retired government employees, struggled to understand why their son would abandon such a prestigious academic career. Yet, in time, their faith and love helped them accept his decision.
“Within a few months, they relented and supported me wholeheartedly. Today, they pray for me and my ministry," Arun says with gratitude.
Formation and Ordination
In 2010, Arun began his journey studying to become a Jesuit priest. His years of formation, especially those years when he was studying theology in France, were deeply enriching. “I wouldn’t call Jesuit formation a challenge. My companions and formators made it an enjoyable experience, and I especially loved my philosophy and theology studies,” he reminisces.
After successfully completing his priestly studies, Arun was ordained as a deacon in France. He later returned to India and spent a few months working as a deacon in Mumbai. He was ordained a priest on December 28, 2022, in Kerala.
After his ordination, Fr. Arun served as a priest at Our Lady of Lourdes Church in Orlem, Malad, Mumbai, from 2022 till 2024. After 2024, he travelled to France, where he is currently pursuing his studies in philosophy.
Life of Service
As a priest, Fr. Arun brings the same dedication and passion to his ministry that once drove his academic pursuits. His story is a testament to the power of faith, courage, and surrendering to God’s will. “I am happy in my vocation, serving God and His people with love, just as He has guided me on this journey,” he affirms.
Fr. Arun Phillip’s journey serves as an inspiration—reminding us all to listen to the whispers of God’s call, no matter where they may lead.
Source: Shalom World
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