OFM

A Journey of Faith and Fraternity

Assisi Bhavan, Chippilithode, was founded in 1997 in the Diocese of Thamarassery, marking a significant milestone in the Franciscan presence within the Syro-Malabar Rite. During the leadership of Fr. Sidney Mascarenhas, OFM, the Friars of St. Thomas the Apostle Province were searching for a suitable location in Kerala to begin a new mission. Their efforts bore fruit through positive dialogue with the Diocese, leading to the establishment of a friary and parish in Chippilithode.

It was Fr. James Kallarackal, OFM, then Director of Bethania Retreat Centre, Pullurampara, who identified the potential of this region. His keen observation and tireless commitment led to the friars taking charge of the newly formed St. Mary’s Parish, Chippilithode, which was officially raised to the status of a parish on 21 September 1997. Fr. Francis Kaviyil, OFM, became the first parish priest, shepherding about 140 Catholic migrant families who had settled in the area.

In the early days, the friars lived in very simple conditions — in a small room attached to the church that also served as the sacristy. There were no proper roads, electricity, or facilities, but the friars’ deep faith and missionary zeal helped transform this remote region into a center of vibrant pastoral and social life.

Growth and Expansion

The present friary building, Assisi Bhavan, was constructed under the supervision of Fr. Shaju Paliyathil, OFM, during the tenure of Fr. Arok Sunder, OFM, as Minister Provincial. It was blessed by Mar Paul Chittilappilly, Bishop of Thamarassery, and inaugurated by Rev. Fr. Sean Collins, OFM, the Delegate General, on 28 May 2006. Later, the house was expanded by Fr. Thomas Joseph, OFM, to include additional rooms and facilities, making it more suitable for community living and pastoral ministry.

Assisi Bhavan was officially raised to the status of a Guardianate on 8 January 2009, encompassing friars serving in Chundel (Wayanad), Payyannur, Peravoor, and other northern Kerala missions. Over time, the friary has grown into a vibrant Franciscan community, deeply rooted in prayer, pastoral service, and social commitment.

One of the early challenges faced by the friars was the scarcity of drinking water. Through perseverance and cooperation with local families, a spring located a kilometer away was acquired, ensuring a stable water supply for both the friary and the parish.

Pastoral and Mission Structures

St. Mary’s Church, the spiritual heart of the parish, was rebuilt under the leadership of Fr. Thomas Joseph, OFM, and blessed in 2025 by Mar Remigiose Inchananiyil, Bishop of Thamarassery. The new church stands as a symbol of unity, faith, and the hard work of both friars and parishioners.

The friars also oversee several chapels and devotional centers, including:

• St. Anthony’s Chapel, Chippilithode

• St. Jude’s Chapel, Marudilavu

• Shankumatha Grotto

• St. Mary’s Chapel, at the main junction

These sacred spaces serve as centers of prayer, devotion, and community gatherings, fostering a deep sense of faith and belonging among the people.

Adjacent to the parish, the Philip Neri Sisters run a convent and formation house for novices. They collaborate closely with the friars in catechetical formation, sacramental preparation, family visits, and various parish apostolates. Their joyful presence and active participation greatly enrich the spiritual life of the community.

Educational and Social Apostolates

The Franciscan friars of Assisi Bhavan have consistently prioritized the pastoral, educational, and social upliftment of the local community. Over the years, they have helped bring electricity to this once-isolated region and provided educational opportunities to children through the parish nursery school and scholarships for deserving students.

They continue to support humanitarian and developmental initiatives — helping the poor, constructing homes, conducting tailoring courses for women, and promoting sustainable agriculture through local farmers’ groups. These efforts embody the Franciscan spirit of service, simplicity, and care for creation.

The Catechetical Centre serves as a hub for Sunday school, youth gatherings, and community meetings, while the Assisi Building near the highway provides space for the nursery and small rental units that support local parish initiatives.

A Living Witness to the Franciscan Mission

Today, Assisi Bhavan Friary, Chippilithode, stands as a living witness to the Franciscan ideals of fraternity, prayer, and humble service. The friars remain committed to nurturing faith, fostering education, and promoting the integral development of the people entrusted to their care.

Through simple living and compassionate ministry, the friars continue to echo the vision of St. Francis of Assisi — to be instruments of peace, joy, and brotherhood in the heart of creation.