Thursday 13 August 2020

FR. JOSEPH MENEZES SJ

                  12 June 1944 – 16 July 2018 

 

Fr. Joseph Menezes was born on 12th of June 1944 in Pune and brought up in Pune. He was inspired by the zealous dedication of the Jesuit Fathers and Brothers, especially those who had come as missionaries, who molded his heart and mind in St. Vincent’s High School and St. Xavier’s Parish. Responding generously to God’s call, he entered the Society of Jesus on June 20, 1962, and began to follow Jesus closely in his life. He had dedicated himself in service of the poor and needy. 

Having completed a Diploma in mechanical Engineering during his formation, technical education had remained his major apostolate all through the years of ministry. He had served at St. Joseph’s Technical Institute, Pune, and at the Xavier Technical Training Institute, Shrirampur, for years in various capacities moving back and forth between the two institutes, serving with commitments and love. 

As a Director, he introduced a number of relevant course to train less-privileged rural youth in both the institutes, to help them live a life of dignity and earn a livelihood to support their families. Under his able leadership, the technical institutes have grown as reputed centers for practical, professional skill-training and precision production.  

He has always cherished a deep love and heart for the poor. In the institutes, he has accompanied the poor students in their studies, and supported them financially, to help them stand on their own feet.  

As Parish Priest of Shrirampur and Kolhapur parishes, his parishioners always appreciated his availability, pastoral care, liturgical services and homilies. His reflections, rooted in the Ignatian spirituality, flowed from his heart, and inspired his congregation. Being a man of the Spiritual Exercises, he loved to share this treasure by giving retreats, especially to religious, and had been very much appreciated for his spiritual direction. The Province is grateful to him for his counsel, guidance and prayer. He passed away on 16th of July 2018 at Shrirampur. May the good Lord grant him eternal reward! Fr. Joe has touched the heart of the faithful and in reaching out across the miles, we count ourselves truly blessed. We pray that God may grant him eternal rest. 

 

 

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