In May, the Diocese of Birmingham will mark twenty-five years of pastoral service courtesy of the priests from the Diocese of Irinjalakuda, India. It was in May of 1998 when the first priest from Irinjalakuda started serving St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Birmingham. Since then, 15 priests have served three different bishops in various parishes throughout the diocese, and two Indian priests have been incardinated, meaning they have become priests of the Diocese of Birmingham. Looking forward to the anniversary, Father Anil Thomas Puthussery, a Diocese of Irinjalakuda priest serving the diocese, said, “Prayers of thanksgiving and continued protection are very much appreciated as the Good Shepherd marvelously takes care of His Holy Catholic Church.”

Bishop Pauly Kannukkadan, the Bishop of Irinjalakuda, India, plans to visit the diocese and mark this special event with a 5:30 p.m. Holy Mass on Sunday, May 28, at Our Lady, Queen of the Universe Catholic Church in Huntsville followed by a reception. All priests, deacons, religious, and the laity are invited to attend. The church is located at 2421 Shady Lane Drive, Northwest.