Dear Advocates of the Multi-faith ACTION Coalition,
It is with great sadness and a heavy heart that we inform you of the tragic and sudden death of Father Mathew Vellankal, the pastor of St. Bonaventure Roman Catholic Church, Concord, CA.
Father Mathew and Dominic Jala, an archbishop from the northeast Indian state of Meghalaya, were tragically killed in a car accident. Father Joseph Parekkatt of St. Anne Parish in Walnut Creek was also in the car and suffered major injuries.
For those who knew Father Mathew, you know that he was an incredible person with many remarkable qualities; but especially, he was kind, joyous, caring and compassionate. He always met you with a friendly smile and a warm greeting. His calming presence made you feel that no matter the challenge, all would be ok! He was deeply concerned about the poor and the underserved. So many of us, at the Multi-faith ACTION Coalition were excited to work with Father Mathew, knowing that he was a committed partner who would work hard along side us to confront poverty. He will be terribly missed.
We know this is a terribly difficult and uncertain time. Please join us in conveying our deepest sympathy and condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues as well as all of the members of his parish, St. Bonaventure Catholic Church.
Vigil Service
Sunday, October 20th at 7pm
Holy Spirit Fremont
Funeral Mass
Monday, October 21st at 10:30am
St. Bonaventure Church
We thank God for Father Mathew and his testimony to life. May his memory be a blessing to all who knew and loved him.
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