Welcome Fr. Prijo!

With great joy, we welcome Fr. Prijo Joseph to the St. Al’s community! Originally from Kerala, India, Fr. Prijo will serve as the associate pastor at both St. Al’s and St. Anne’s parish where he will assist Fr. Ben in all the everyday tasks of parish life and the outreach to college students, including our graduate and international students. 

Fr. Prijo, could you tell us a brief history about who you are and where you’ve served. “I first served for two years in Kerala as an assistant pastor, which gave me a strong foundation in ministry and pastoral care. After that, God opened the door for me to serve as a pioneer missionary in Tanzania, where I spent fourteen years. Those years were a great blessing, learning a new language, filled with challenges, learning their culture, and the joy of witnessing how God works in people’s lives and communities.”
 What led you to becoming a priest?
“What led me to become a priest was a deep sense of God’s call in my life. From an early stage, I felt drawn to serve Him and His people, and through prayer, guidance, and the encouragement of my community, I realized that the priesthood was where God was leading me. My desire has always been to give my life for the Gospel, to walk with people in their joys and struggles, and to bring Christ’s love to those in need.” 
What is your favorite part about being a priest? “My favorite part about being a priest is journeying with people in their faith—whether it is celebrating the sacraments, Welcome, Fr. Prijo preaching the Word of God, or simply being present in their daily struggles and joys. It is a blessing to witness how God touches lives, brings healing, and strengthens people through His grace. For me, the greatest joy is knowing that God uses my priesthood as an instrument to draw others closer to Him.” 
What has been your initial impression of the UP, and what are you looking forward to most while on mission here at St. Al’s?
 “My initial impression of St. Al’s and the UP community is that it is warm, welcoming, and faith-filled. I can already see a strong sense of fellowship and a deep love for the Church, which makes me excited to be part of this journey together. I am most looking forward to serving the community of St. Al’s, sharing God’s Word, and growing together in faith as we build a strong, welcoming parish family."