On September 20, 2024 Fr. GK felt something unusual happening in his body. He was visiting friends and relatives in the US and Canada. He was immediately rushed to hospital. Thanks to the timely intervention of his dear ones and the providence of God, Fr. GK underwent a quick check-up to be diagnosed with a suspected cancer. More alarming was the verdict from the doctor that Fr. GK’s heart is very weak. He was flown to Deepti Bhavan, the Central House of MST fathers in Kerala without any delay.
Cancer was confirmed, but Fr. GK preferred to have a less expensive and less complex treatment. However, respecting the advice of the superiors of MST, Fr. GK submitted himself to their will by undergoing the rigorous cancer treatment at the age of 75. Fr. GK remembers and prays for each and every one who stood by him during the times of medical treatment. Significant among them are the superiors and his fellow brothers of MST, the family of Siby Joseph and many of his foster children who took care of him during the period of recovery, and friends and relatives from across the globe, including several families from Pune who extended emotional and spiritual support.
Surviving cancer and its nauseating treatment is no easy task for a septuagenarian. Fr. GK shared the poignant story of Mrs. Pennamma and Mr. Paul from Pune. Pennamma had a medical condition and Paul had to help her with everything, as well as looking after the family that included a son who is differently-abled. Fr. GK would often visit most families in and around Pune, and the last stop would be at Mr. and Mrs Paul. Paul would make a black coffee for Fr. GK.
When asked about her suffering, Pennamma with a smile would look at the crucifix hanging on the wall. Paul would mention that he sleeps on a simple mat which would not allow him to deep sleep neglecting his wife. Fr. GK recollects that the faithful were leading a tough time as they left their homeland and various types of sufferings were part of their lives.
Two thoughts ruled Fr. GK’s mind to entrust the parish to St. Alphonsa. First her connection with children. Fr. GK wished that the children needed Alphonsa’s intercession for their faith life. Secondly St. Alphonsa’s life of suffering would provide strength to the parishioners to lead their lives with great faith, hope and charity. When the Church was constructed in Kalewadi the whole parish voluntarily chose Mr. Paul to do the grand opening of the Church. It was a tribute to the sanctity and holiness they lived and the noble Christian witness as married couples they could give to the world.
When the land was purchased Fr. GK invited Msgr. Paul Chittilappilly who was the chaplain of Kerala Catholics in Mumbai to Kalewadi. During his visit a foundation stone was blessed and laid. When the church was constructed Msgr. Paul Chittilappilli had been ordained to be the first bishop of Kalyan diocese. During his pastoral visits, Fr. GK would take him to the poorest and needy families of the parish. He would request the bishop to pray over the sick and to dine with them eating their ordinary meals. Mar. Paul Chittilappilli in his auto biography had recollected that he received this sense of missionary approach to pastoral care from Fr. GK.
Fr. GK considers that Church is the fruit of people’s sweat and blood, and their unwavering faith in the providence of God, like the zealous faithful in Pune. Fr. GK was not a mere pastor for the Christians alone. He was a friend, a companion, a helper and healer for people of other denominations, as well as religious groups. When there are problems even the local Hindu and Muslim families also took succour from Fr GK. Fr. GK is presently living in Karkale village near Uduppi with the family of Siby Joseph. He visits doctors at Manipal Hospital for his regular check up. Being very optimistic about life, Fr. GK inspires all his friends and family how to withstand the challenges of life. He prays for everyone and wishes their best in life.
