Incredible, Inspiring & Intriguing

It has been an overwhelming feeling of excitement and numbness from the moment I landed in Patnam for the historical quasquicentennial celebration of our very own Patnam’s greatest wealth, St. Thomas Church. My mind drifted 25 years back when we celebrated the 100^th year anniversary of our church in 1986 (I was in 10^th standard.), which was a lifetime experience by itself. Nevertheless, there is something very different this time and there is a special feeling in the air during the quasquicentennial celebrations. As I earnestly pondered over the reasons, I realized that there are a few:

Pattanathaars have become prosperous and generous. The initial budget for the celebration was Rs. 20 Lakhs and then the budget grew higher to 58 Lakhs to 68 Lakhs to 78 Lakhs to 98 and now it is Rs. 1.2 Crores. Now, that’s inspiring!! Mind you, nobody had the actual-collected-amount in mind, but Pattanathaars around the world have contributed voluntarily. But, now the budget has been accomplished with a deficit of Rs. 9 Lakhs. According to the committee members, although they are very excited about the significant collection, they are not very surprised about it and the reason for that is a priceless blessing that has been bestowed upon pattanathaars for many generations: the catholic faith. They strongly feel that it is the repeat of the miracle at the Wedding of Cana where the empty jars were filled. It’s incredible!!

The Internet Age/Flat World that has brought the celebrations to the doorstep of every pattnathaar around the world. Thanks to Derric Rayen and team that persevered and triumphed over many hassles to webcast live the celebrations.

Our Parish Priest Rev. Father G. Joseph has been one of the strongest pillars of success. The best way to describe him is “He is different.” He is a very staunch priest at church, a good friend outside the church and a good sport with a remarkable sense of humor. His greatest contribution to this celebration, among many other wonderful things that he has done, is the freedom he gave to the committee members and the rapport he had developed with the pattanarthaars from all backgrounds.

One of the most of important reasons is the passion of pattanathaars for Patnam, especially the 51 committee members!! It is incredible, inspiring and intriguing!! What drives them is a mystery, for Patnam by itself is a mystery!!