A Catholic priest in India has quit pastoral ministry saying he wants to clean up his Eastern rite Syro-Malabar Church, which he alleged deviated from the teachings of Christ.
Father Ajimon Puthiyapramabil of Thamarassery diocese in southern Kerala state announced his decision on May 13 to pursue what he calls the “prophetic mission” of Christ.
“…But from today I am entering the prophetic mission, one of the missions of the Christian priesthood,” the 46-year-old priest said in a letter to the parishioners of Sacred Heart Church in Mukkom where he last served.
The Syro-Malabar Church based in Kerala witnessed a series of scandals in the past four years including court cases and street protests involving priests and bishops. Allegations of lack of financial transparency and a protracted liturgical dispute were top among them.
“I took this decision after two years of discernment,” Father Puthiyapramabil told UCA News on May 19.
“I know I cannot speak up my mind being in a parish ministry, therefore, I decided to quit. It does not mean that I quit my priesthood,” he added.
Father Joice Vayalil, vicar-general of the diocese, however, said the diocese was not aware of the priest’s decision.