On Jan. 1, Father Jose Raphy Ambooken, parochial vicar at Holy Spirit Catholic Church in Huntsville, celebrated the 25th anniversary of his priestly ordination. A special Mass of Thanksgiving, celebrated by Father Jose, was held at the parish on Jan. 5, with hundreds in attendance. After Mass, Father Jose offered words of gratitude and all of the priests present from Father Jose’s home state of Kerala in India joined in offering a hymn of thanksgiving in Malayalam, the primary dialect of Kerala. A reception followed, featuring heavy hors d'oeuvres inspired by Indian cuisine. All present reveled in the joyous opportunity to express gratitude and appreciation for Father Jose’s 25 years of dedication and service to God’s people.