Kottayam, October 3: The ‘Vijyotsav 2026’, jointly organized as the 65th anniversary of the Vijayapuram Social Service Society (VSSS), Elder’s Day observance, and the annual day of the Vijay Elder’s Forum, was celebrated with grand events in Kottayam.
The ceremonies commenced at 09:30 AM with a Holy Thanksgiving Mass held at Good Shepherd Church, Kottayam. Rt. Rev. Dr. Justin Madathiparambil, Auxiliary Bishop of the Diocese of Vijayapuram, served as the main celebrant of the Holy Mass.
Following this, the public meeting began at 11:00 AM at Carmel Hall. Rev. Fr. Felix Devasia Puratheparambil, Executive Director of VSSS, welcomed the gathering. Rt. Rev. Dr. Sebastian Thekethecheril, Bishop of the Diocese of Vijayapuram, presided over the meeting. Adv. Mons Joseph, Minister for Water Resources and Housing, officially inaugurated the conference.
Key Highlights / Events:
Inauguration of Schemes and Distribution of Financial Assistance: Various projects and financial aids were distributed during the event.
Smt. Preety Joseph, District Manager of the Kerala Backward Classes Development Corporation, handed over the microcredit loan.
Rt. Rev. Dr. Justin Madathilparambil distributed self-employment loans for differently-abled individuals and presented the educational encouragement award to K. Yesudas, who secured JRF.
Shri. John Tharappel, elected as a member of Thalayolaparambu Grama Panchayat, was honored with a shawl by Most Rev. Dr. Sebastian Thekethecheril.
Rev. Dr. Sabas Ignatius, Director of the Kerala Social Service Forum, presented the award for the best People’s Development Committee (Janakeeya Vikasana Samithi).
Rev. Fr. Michael Vettickatt, Managing Director of Deepika, released the rulebook of the Vijay Elder’s Forum. Smt. Mary Mathew, Unit President of the Vijay Elder’s Forum (Cheinthalar), delivered the felicitation address.
Rev. Fr. Anas Paul Karottunallunnel, Assistant Director of VSSS, delivered the vote of thanks. This was followed by various cultural programs and a fellowship meal.
