Dear Parishioners,

Grace and peace to you in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

It is with profound gratitude and joyful anticipation that I introduce myself as I begin this new chapter of ministry among you. I am Fr. Saju Mathew Vadakumpadan, CMI (Carmelites of Mary Immaculate), originally from the beautiful state of Kerala, India. Having been ordained to the priesthood in 1992 after sixteen years of religious and priestly formation, I have been blessed to spend more than three decades serving God’s people in various ministries across the world.

My vocation was nurtured in the loving embrace of a simple Christian family where faith was not merely taught but lived each day. The witness of my parents, their steadfast trust in God’s providence, our daily family prayers, regular participation in the Holy Eucharist, and the inspiring lives of missionary priests planted within my heart a deep desire to dedicate my life entirely to Christ and His Church. Responding to that call, I entered the seminary at the age of fourteen, embarking on a journey that continues to unfold through God’s abundant grace.

My formation as a Carmelite priest has been both spiritual and academic. I pursued studies in Education, Philosophy, Theology, Humanities, Modern History, Educational Management, and Clinical Pastoral Education, culminating in a Doctorate in History. Throughout these years, I have sought to harmonize intellectual pursuit with spiritual growth, convinced that authentic priestly ministry flourishes when faith, knowledge, prayer, and compassion walk hand in hand.

For nearly two decades, I served in the ministry of Catholic education as a teacher and principal in various schools in India. Those years deepened my passion for shaping young minds, fostering Christian values, and accompanying students in their journey toward becoming responsible and faith-filled individuals. I have also had the privilege of serving as a resource person in the areas of History, Value Education, Personality Development, Life Skills, and Leadership Formation. My academic research culminated in the publication of the book English Education in India: A Catalyst to Social Change (2016).

God’s providence has led me through many diverse pastoral experiences. I served as a parish pastor in several parishes in India, as Youth Coordinator for the Diocese of Kalyan, and later as Pastor of St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church in Grand Bahama, Bahamas. These missionary experiences enriched my faith and taught me invaluable lessons about trust, resilience, and the universal beauty of the Church.

Since 2015, I have been blessed to serve in the Archdiocese of Louisville. My ministry began as Associate Pastor at St. Gabriel Parish and later as Pastor of several parish communities, including Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Our Lady of the Hills, and Our Lady of Fatima in Campbellsville, as well as St. Peter the Apostle Church and St. Andrew Academy. I currently serve on both the Priests’ Personnel Board and the Priests’ Council of the Archdiocese. These years have continually reminded me that effective ministry is rooted in presence, compassionate listening, humble service, and genuine accompaniment.

My priestly motto is “To Love and To Serve.” The Scripture passage that continually inspires my life and ministry is Isaiah 49:16: “See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands.” These beautiful words remind me that every person is infinitely loved, cherished, and remembered by God.

As your pastor, I look forward to walking alongside you in faith, celebrating the sacraments, strengthening families, encouraging our youth, accompanying the elderly and the sick, and fostering a parish community where all feel welcomed, valued, and loved. Together, may we grow as a vibrant family of faith rooted in prayer, united in charity, and committed to witnessing the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

I entrust our journey together to the loving care of the Blessed Virgin Mary and ask for your prayers as I begin this ministry among you. Please know of my prayers for each of you and your families.

May God abundantly bless you and fill your hearts with His peace and joy.

With prayerful best wishes,

Fr. Saju Mathew CMI