52 Years A Jesuit In India

MAY 6th, 2006 was indeed a Red Letter Day for Rev. Fr. Francis D’Almeida, his community, his family and all his near and dear ones as he celebrated his Golden Jubilee in Mangalore. To be called to the priest is a very sacred relationship with God. Priesthood is given to the Church by Jesus Christ the real high priest, the true Pontifex - bridge builder between God and man.

"Looking back nostalgically to the past, fifty years ago, one cannot but remember with great affection and gratitude so many people that contributed to my life in a meaningful way. To my parents I owe much, not only for the life they gave me, but also for the faith and the willingness to serve. I also remember today with appreciation, the priests, sisters and teachers who shaped my life and vocation in the many institutions where I have studied and also in the seminary." Said Fr. Valerian as he celebrated his thanksgiving mass in the midst of his family and near and dear ones.

Fr. Francis was born on May 6th, 1956 at Kulai in Mangalore and was the fourth out of the eight siblings of Late John and Stephanie D’ Almeida. He is the brother of William, Gratian (Late), Emmy, Andrew, Valerian, Joseph and Stany.
Educational background : He did his early schooling in Surathkal and graduated from the St. Aloysius College in Arts. He post graduated from the Mangalore University and secured the 1st rank securing the Gold medal. During his college days he was the General Secretary of the Political Science Association of the Mangalore University Post Graduate students and he was instrumental in organizing a state level Seminar on “ Shah Bano Case-the Supreme Court Judgment.”

His father wanted him to become a doctor but God willed it otherwise. Francis who grew up among the dalits and the outcastes was moved by their light. This made him very sad and it was this touching scene that moved him and he decided he would surrender his life to God’s mission. He left his home and loved ones to become a priest so that he could elevate the suffering of these less fortunate brethren.

Religious Studies:

He joined the Society of Jesus (Jesuits) in 1975 at Mount St. Joseph, Bannerghatta Road Bangalore. After completing his novitiate in 1977 he underwent one year of Classical studies in languages from 1977 to 78. Philosophy at the Sacred Heart College, Sathya Nilayam Chennai from 1981 to 83 and Theology studies at Jnana Deepa Vidya Peet at Pune from 1986 to 1989 and was ordained Priest on 1st May 1989. The ordination conferred by Rt. Rev. Dr. Late Basil S. D’ Souza, Bishop of Mangalore at Sacred Heart Church Suratkal.

Link (here) to Father's long list of assignments and accomplishments.

Photo is of St. Aloysius College