Mar Jose Pulickal

His Excellency Mar Jose Pulickal is the Bishop of the Eparchy of Kanjirapally of the Syro-Malabar Catholic Church, Kerala, India. Born on March 3, 1964, in Inchiyani, Kerala, Mar Pulickal pursued his early education before joining Mary Matha Minor Seminary at Podimattam to begin his spiritual journey. He then completed his priestly studies at St. Thomas Apostolic Seminary, Vadavathoor, and was ordained a priest on January 1, 1991, for the Diocese of Kanjirapally.

Following his ordination, Fr. Jose Pulickal was appointed as the Assistant Vicar of Kanjirapally Cathedral and Director of Vettukadu Snehashram (Jesus Fraternity). He later pursued higher studies and obtained a Master’s degree in Biblical Theology from St. Peter’s Institute, Bangalore, and a Doctorate from the Dharmaram Vidya Kshetram, also in Bangalore. These academic achievements provided him with a deep understanding of the Scriptures, enriching his pastoral ministry and theological insights. Mar Pulickal has held several key roles within the diocese. He served as the Director of Catechesis, Vicar of Pathanamthitta Forane, diocesan consultor, and Protosyncellus (the Bishop’s Deputy) for Ranni and Pathanamthitta. His leadership skills, spiritual guidance, and administrative acumen were highly regarded, making him a prominent figure in the diocese's ecclesial life.

In recognition of his dedicated service and leadership qualities, the Syro-Malabar Synod elected him as the Auxiliary Bishop of the Eparchy of Kanjirapally. On January 12, 2016, Pope Francis confirmed his appointment as Auxiliary Bishop of Kanjirapally and concurrently as the Titular Bishop of Lares. His Episcopal Consecration took place on February 4, 2016, at St. Dominic’s Cathedral, Kanjirapally, where he officially took charge of his duties. As the Titular Bishop of the Episcopal See of Lares, he continued to serve the diocese with great commitment.
Upon the retirement of Mar Mathew Arackal, Bishop of the Eparchy of Kanjirapally, Mar Jose Pulickal was elected by the Synod of the Syro-Malabar Major Archiepiscopal Church as the new Bishop of Kanjirapally. The official proclamation of his appointment was made on January 15, 2020, at the Vatican and Mount St. Thomas, Kakkanad. His Episcopal enthronement took place on February 3, 2020, at St. Dominic's Cathedral, Kanjirapally, where he assumed office as the Bishop of the diocese.

As the Bishop of Kanjirapally, Mar Jose Pulickal has focused on promoting spiritual growth, community development, and pastoral care within his diocese. He emphasizes the importance of education, family welfare, youth empowerment, and interreligious dialogue. His Excellency Mar Jose Pulickal continues to inspire and lead with humility, compassion, and a deep commitment to serving the Church and its people. His life and ministry are a testament to his unwavering dedication to the faith and his enduring commitment to the service of God and His people. Currently, Mar Jose Pulickal also serves as the Ecclesial Patron of St. Rosello's Global Ministries, guiding and leading all ministries under this organization. His role as patron underscores his commitment to spreading the Gospel and supporting apostolates that address the spiritual and social needs of the faithful.