Prominent Figures of the Kerala Church-101
Bishop Dr. Peter Chenapparambil
Bishop Dr. Peter Chenapparambil, a remarkable individual known for his roles as a pastor, educationist, youth leader, social worker, eloquent speaker, and competent administrator, was born on December 8, 1929, to Michael and Annie in Manakkod.
After completing his high school education at Thuravoor Thirumala Devaswom School, Peter joined the Minor Seminary in the Alappuzha diocese for priestly studies. At that time, the only seminary in Asia authorized to confer degrees in philosophy and theology was the Papal Seminary in Kandy, Sri Lanka. Recognizing Peter’s academic capabilities, he was sent for higher studies to the Papal Seminary, which was later relocated to Pune, where he continued his theological education. He was ordained a priest on June 1, 1956.
Upon returning from Pune, Fr. Peter Chenapparambil obtained his B.A. degree from Alappuzha S.D. College and a B.Ed. degree from Kollam Carmel Rani Training College. He then served as a teacher at St. Joseph’s High School in Punnapra for a year. While working as a manager at St. Michael’s College, he was appointed to the Archdiocese of Bombay. After five years, he returned to Alappuzha and was appointed as the Director of Social Activities for the diocese. He also served as the Diocesan Chancellor and Pro-Vicar General, rendering valuable services. In recognition of his outstanding contributions, he was honored with the title of Domestic Prelate (Monsignor) by the Holy See in 1982.
For half a century, his service to the Alappuzha diocese as a priest was invaluable. Understanding the challenges faced by the community, he approached their suffering with genuine love and compassion, working tirelessly for the welfare of the coir industry workers, fishermen, and agricultural laborers in the diocese. He served as the Director of several organizations, including the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, Yuvajyothi, the Catholic Association, and the Franciscan Apostolate, dedicating over a decade to the diocesan social welfare society.
Due to his commendable and dedicated service, Monsignor Chenapparambil was appointed as the Auxiliary Bishop of the Alappuzha diocese on November 11, 1982. His episcopal consecration took place on September 4, 1983. Following the resignation of the first bishop, Mar Michael Arattukulam, on April 28, 1984, Chenapparambil took over the governance of the diocese.
He has visited the Holy Father, Pope John Paul II, in Rome multiple times and has traveled extensively in the United States and European countries. During his tenure, many churches and presbyteries were constructed, and several new parishes were established.
Following the collapse of the Alappuzha Cathedral tower, the cathedral was renovated at a cost of over 35 million rupees, becoming a lasting tribute to Bishop Dr. Peter Chenapparambil. He had clear visions for promoting organic farming, enhancing fisheries, preventing coastal erosion, and developing tourism. He transformed the land surrounding the bishop’s residence into a scientifically managed organic farm, setting a new model for organic agriculture. He also promoted the idea of aquaculture in ponds and introduced innovative concepts for fishing using biodegradable materials and fiberglass.
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