Papal Honours Awarded to Clergy and Lay Faithful of the Diocese of Quilon, Kerala

Kollam, Dec 31, 2025: The Holy Father has graciously granted Papal Honours to a priest and two lay faithful from the Diocese of Quilon. The honours were conferred during the concluding Eucharistic celebration of the Year of Jubilee at the Infant Jesus Cathedral, Tangassery, where they were presented by Bishop Paul Antony Mullassery.

Msgr. Vincent Machado received the title of Chaplain of His Holiness, acknowledging his fifty-three years of faithful service to the diocese of Quilon. He has served in various capacities, including Assistant Vicar, school warden, parish priest, Rector of the Minor Seminary, and Vicar General of the diocese. His priestly ministry has been marked by distinctive service, a simple life that inspires both clergy and the faithful, and a notable commitment to the upliftment of the poor fisherfolk community.

Being honoured with the Papal honour of Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice, Mrs. Jane Ancil Francis was acknowledged for her long-standing service to the Church. She has served the Council of Catholic Women of India as Kerala Region President and National Vice President, completed two terms as President of the Kerala Latin Catholic Women Association, and worked as Executive Secretary of the Women Commission of the KCBC. In the diocese, she has been an active member of the Diocesan Pastoral Council and a board member of the Quilon Social Service Society. Her tireless involvement in Church activities, particularly for women’s empowerment at local and regional levels, led to this recognition.

Prof. S. Varghese received the Papal honour of Benemerenti. He served as an honourable member of the Kerala State Human Rights Commission and as Principal of University College. Throughout his service in education and public administration, he worked for social justice and minority rights. He continues to serve the diocese as Secretary of the Laity Commission and as a member of the Diocesan Pastoral Council.

By Fr. Baiju Julian