“Apostle of the Untouchables” Get Beatification

Father Augustine Thevarparampil known as the Apostle of the Untouchables was beatified on April 1 in Ramapuan, India.
Cardinal Varkev Vithayathil, major archbishop of Ernakulam-Angamaly, presided at the beatification ceremony in the name of Benedict XVI.

Father Thecarparampil was born on April 1, 1891 in Ramapuram in the Dioceses of Palai, Kerala. After completing his studies in public schools, Augustine entered the seminary.

He was ordained a priest at age 33, on Dec. 17, 1921, by Servant of God Mar Tommaso Kurialacherry. (Mar in the Syrian Oriental Churches is a title of respect used to address bishops.)

In 1923 Kunjachan was sent as vice parish priest to Kadanad, in the Church of St. Sebastian. His pastoral service in this place did not last long. Ill-health forced him to return to his native village in 1926.

Father Augustine was known to everybody as Kunjachan which means “little priest” in the Malayalam language of India. He was very short but he was a giant in announcing Christ among the dalit, the outcasts. During his priesthood days among the dalits he personally baptized almost 6,000 people.

During his convalescence, he became aware of the miserable living conditions of the "untouchables," those belonging to the lowest caste of the Indian society. Gandhi used to call them Harijan -- "the people of God."

Father Augustine decided to devote his life to the evangelization and human betterment of the poorest of his society. The priest rose at 4 each morning. After celebrating Mass, he and a catechist used to go and visit the families in the villages. He took care of the dalits in his parish, as well as all those he could materially reach.

He used to call "child" anybody who needed help. He offered assistance and comfort, tried to solve disputes and took care of the sick. Some used to avoid him and hide from him.

His short height was a blessing because he could go in and out, without any difficulty, of the poor village huts. Kunjachan was a friend to the children; he always carries some sweets for them. The children enjoyed his company tremendously.

Father Augustine spent his entire life in simplicity, living like the poor to whom he had devoted his existence. A man of great spirituality, he used to pray continuously even during his frequent traveling. He was always patient and understanding with the outcasts. He knew how to overcome mistrust.

After celebrating 50 years of priesthood, he died on Oct. 16, 1973, at age 82.

His will begins: "I possess neither land nor money, and I owe no one anything. I want my funeral to be a very simple one." He wished to be buried among his beloved children, in the barren land, but the parishioners demanded that he be laid to rest in the church, at the foot of the altar of St. Augustine, patron of the community.

Ever since then his tomb has been the destination of thousands of pilgrims every year. Solemn celebrations are held especially on Oct. 16 to commemorate his death.