Meet Fr. Tomy Philip, SAC
Greetings in the peace and love of our Lord Jesus Christ!
It is with great joy and gratitude that I introduce myself to you as Fr. Tomy Philip, SAC, a member of the Pallottine Fathers and Brothers. I have been entrusted with the privilege of serving as your Pastor, and I look forward with great anticipation to beginning this new chapter of faith and ministry together with you.
I was born on May 24, 1974, in the beautiful state of Kerala, India, affectionately known as “God’s Own Country.” I come from a loving family that has always been a source of faith, encouragement, and support. My parents are now enjoying their golden years, and I have one brother and three sisters, all of whom are happily married.
Following my priestly ordination on May 5, 2004, I spent my first year serving in the remote mission areas of India. That experience profoundly shaped my priesthood, teaching me the joy of walking with people in every circumstance of life. I then served for four years as the Vocation Director for my congregation, accompanying young men as they discerned God’s call to the priesthood.
In 2009, I was blessed to continue my studies in Rome at the Pontifical Gregorian University, where I earned a Master’s Degree in Priestly Formation and later completed my doctoral studies. During my nine years in Rome, I also had the privilege of serving as Associate Pastor at Regina Apostolorum Parish, an experience that enriched both my pastoral ministry and my appreciation for the universality of the Church.
Returning to India in 2018, I was appointed Rector of our Minor Seminary, where I also taught theology and spirituality in various seminaries while serving as a parish pastor. One of the greatest blessings of my priesthood has been spending more than thirty years working with young people, helping them grow in faith, discover their gifts, and deepen their relationship with Christ.
In November 2024, I began my ministry in the Diocese of Springfield in Illinois as Parochial Vicar at Blessed Sacrament Parish in Springfield. I later served as Parochial Administrator of St. Thomas the Apostle Parish in Newton and St. Mary of the Assumption Parish in Ste. Marie, followed by a brief assignment at St. Jude Parish in Rochester. Each of these communities welcomed me with great kindness and became a cherished part of my priestly journey.
Now, God has graciously led me to St. Mary’s Parish in Taylorville and Holy Trinity Parish in Stonington, and I receive this new mission with a grateful heart and joyful hope. I believe every parish is a family where faith is nurtured, friendships are formed, and Christ is encountered in one another. I come not simply to serve you, but to walk with you—to pray with you, celebrate with you, support you in times of joy and sorrow, and grow together as disciples of Jesus Christ.
As we begin this journey together, I invite you to embrace with me the inspiring vision of St. Vincent Pallotti: “Reviving Faith, Rekindling Charity.” May this become the heartbeat of our parish family. Together, let us deepen our love for the Eucharist, strengthen our families, encourage our young people, reach out to those in need, and build welcoming communities where everyone feels at home. May our parishes become places where faith is continually renewed, charity is joyfully lived, hope is restored, and every person experiences the transforming love of Christ. United in prayer and guided by the Holy Spirit, let us walk together as missionary disciples, building God’s Kingdom with joyful hearts and generous hands.
I am truly looking forward to meeting each one of you personally, listening to your stories, learning about the rich traditions of our parishes, and sharing in the many blessings that God has prepared for us. I kindly ask for your prayers as I begin this ministry among you, just as you can be assured of my daily prayers for you and your families.
Thank you in advance for your warm welcome and your friendship. May the Lord bless each of you abundantly, and may our Blessed Mother continue to watch over our parish family.
I look forward to seeing you soon!
With prayers and every blessing,
Fr. Tomy Philip, SAC