- 17 June, 2026
Kottayam,June 17, 2026 : The Catholic Church in Kerala mourns the passing of Fr. Michael Panachickal VC, a priest, preacher, writer and gifted hymn composer whose spiritual songs touched generations of faithful. At the age of 77, Fr. Michael left behind a legacy built not only through his priestly ministry but also through hundreds of devotional hymns that became part of the prayer life of countless Christians.
A member of the St. Joseph Province of the Vincentian Congregation, he was remembered as a spiritual guide who brought people closer to Christ through retreats, preaching and music. His famous hymn, “Thirunama Keerthanam Paaduvan Allenkil Naavenikkenthinu Naatha” (“If not to sing the praise of Your Holy Name, Lord, why do I need a tongue?”), remains one of the most cherished Malayalam Christian devotional songs.
His funeral service will be held at the Parithrana Retreat Centre, Adichira, Kottayam, where many who were inspired by his ministry will gather to honour his life and faith.
Born into the Panachickal family in Anthinad, Kerala, Fr. Michael was ordained a priest on 19 December 1974. For more than five decades, he dedicated himself to proclaiming the Gospel and leading people towards spiritual renewal.
Throughout his priestly journey, he served in various important roles within the Vincentian Congregation. He was the Popular Mission Director, Director of the Adichira Parithrana Retreat Centre, Director of the Kattappana Kripalayam Retreat Centre, and Assistant Provincial Superior.
He also played a significant role in priestly formation, serving as a spiritual director and novice master at the Vincentian Minor Seminary in Pala and Vincentian Vidyabhavan in Aluva.
Beyond institutional responsibilities, Fr. Michael’s greatest mission remained reaching people’s hearts. Through retreats, missions and spiritual programmes in India and abroad, he helped thousands rediscover faith and experience God’s mercy.
Fr. Michael’s contribution to Malayalam Christian music remains one of his greatest gifts to the Church. He composed around 700 devotional songs, many of which continue to be sung during Holy Mass, prayer gatherings and spiritual programmes.
His first composition, “Nithyatha Theerkkunna Nimishangalil” (“In the moments that create eternity”), marked the beginning of a remarkable journey as a lyricist.
Among his most recognised works, Thirunama Keerthanam Paaduvan became a spiritual anthem, expressing a deep desire to praise God through every gift given to humanity.
His connection with liturgical music was also significant. Fr. Michael was part of the committee involved in preparing the Syro-Malabar Church Holy Qurbana text and contributed greatly to composing hymns for the Eucharistic celebration.
Through his songs, he transformed ordinary moments into opportunities for prayer, allowing generations of believers to encounter God through melody and words.
Fr. Michael was not only a composer but also an accomplished author and journalist. As the founding editor of Vachanolsavam magazine, he encouraged reflection on Scripture and Christian living.
He authored several books, including The Poor in Spirit Are Blessed, The Truth Will Set You Free, and Christu Paramartham. His writings reflected his passion for spreading Gospel values and helping people understand the depth of Christian faith.
His ability to communicate through preaching, writing and music made him a unique spiritual figure in Kerala’s Catholic community.
Over the years, Fr. Michael received several recognitions for his contribution to Christian ministry and media, including the KCCBC Award, Shalom Media Award, Sicilian Award, Goodness Media Award, and the Luminous Award of the Vincentian Generalate.
However, his greatest achievement was the spiritual impact he left behind. The prayers he wrote, the retreats he conducted and the lives he touched continue to bear witness to his dedication.
Rev. Fr. Michael Panachickal VC may have completed his earthly journey, but his voice continues through the hymns and prayers that remain alive in the hearts of believers.
His famous words, asking why he needed a tongue if not to praise God, perfectly summarise his life’s mission. He used his voice, his pen and his priesthood to glorify Christ and bring hope to others.
As the Church remembers this beloved priest, Kerala’s faithful can give thanks for a servant whose songs became prayers and whose ministry became a blessing for generations. Fr. Michael’s earthly voice may have fallen silent, but his hymns continue to sing of faith, love and the eternal praise of God.
By Catholic Connect Reporter
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