I Can Do All Through God
“I have a duty to share the love of Christ through selfless service,” says India-native Father Cleetus Koochikkatt George, who serves as Associate Pastor for two diocesan parishes: Sacred Heart Parish and Christ the King Parish.
Father Cleetus’ love of Christ and desire for priestly formation were evident in childhood. His formation process is a testament to determination, and his vocational story is best understood in the context of India’s religious landscape.
Hinduism dominates India’s religious beliefs with only 2.5 percent of the population practicing Christianity, and of that percentage, only 1.7 percent practice Catholicism.
Despite the distinct difference in committed followers, Christian leaders still command a strong influence within Indian society, says Father Cleetus.
In India, priestly formation takes 13 years to complete, and these years typically follow 12 years of faith formation during childhood.
The youngest of three and with the full support of his family, Father Cleetus dedicated himself to the 13-year discernment process when he entered seminary in June 2001 at the age of 15. He was ordained to the presbyterate on April 28, 2014, by Most Reverend Joseph Karikkassery for the Diocese of Kottapuram.
“At the conclusion of grade 10, Indian students are required to make formal decisions concerning vocational and professional aspirations. For me, the focus was priestly formation,” reflects Father Cleetus. “I love the priesthood because I can celebrate the holy Eucharist.”
of Baptism at Christ the King, Acme.
Philippians 4:13 is the pinnacle of his ministerial efforts: “I have the strength for everything through him who empowers me.”
This is Father Cleetus’ first experience in America, and he is one of 40 clerics from his home diocese who is performing missionary work throughout the world.
He says that he is grateful for the assistance of Father Christopher Jarvis, pastor of Sacred Heart and Christ the King parishes, who helped in the transitional experience to America. “He is like a guardian angel. He has been so helpful since my arrival in September 2023 being an international cleric.”
Father Cleetus is enjoying the parishioners at his two parishes as well as the Michigan landscape. “The parishioners are so loving and caring and with this being my first experience with snowy weather. I am enjoying the snowy Michigan weather,” he says.
He is also enjoying the evening basketball games at St. Francis High School. When he is not offering ministerial efforts, Father Cleetus enjoys phone conversations with friends and family, but admits the 10½ hour time difference is a challenge.
When asked about his family, he lovingly reflected on his parents, siblings and brother-in-law, but quickly expressed adoration for his sole nephew, Adon Mankuzhy.
He wishes all the diocesan faithful to know of his love and prayers for them and his gratitude to Bishop Walsh for his hospitality in welcoming him to the Diocese of Gaylord.
