In the Acts of the Apostles, 4:20 there is an expression, ‘As for us, we cannot but speak of what we have seen and heard’. Here I come up with my own expression saying, ‘I cannot but stop sharing something about this great human being Rev Fr Joel Pinto’. He was a Capuchin religious priest loved and revered by many from the beginning of his priestly ministry. Just like some of you I too have had the opportunity to live around him for four years during my theological studies at Deena Seva Ashram, Bangalore.
According to the norms of seminary, every seminarian has to have a spiritual guide who keeps a track of the spiritual journey and motivates that candidate to reach the final stage of the priestly formation.
Soon after our arrival to the theologate, we were advised by the Rector to approach any senior priest and have him as our spiritual guide. Fr Joel, a white-bearded smiling priest was the choice of many. He was sick. The primary reason of his being here was to take rest. But his zeal to work in spite of the ill health was what drawing the young seminarian towards him. A few days later I approached this white bearded red skinned handsome 73-year-old priest and expressed my desire to be his spiritual son. He, with his signature smile, accepted and agreed to be my spiritual master who would guide and lead me to the Lord. I met him regularly (every month) and gained insights and sparks for my religious life. Our spiritual bond lasted for 4 short years.
I have not known his family or his achievements nor have I known his past. But living in the Capuchin Order for the last 15 years I have come across those people who have shared the beautiful heart warming stories about his life and mission. His enthusiasm and zeal to live life to the full were always highlighted. He was a gifted man. He showcased his talents not just to gain the fame and name rather bring people to one fold, ‘the love of God’. His early years of priesthood were spent among the young students in the school of Goa. There he was a strict disciplinary teacher as well as a caring father. Later on, he took up the social work ministry and thrived both in Karnataka and Uganda, Africa. He worked towards giving dignity and status to the poor children, women, and families.
I can still feel the echoes in my ears when I remember few of his admonitions and words of guidance during the spiritual guidance meeting. ‘Jawahar, you know the purpose of our meeting here today?’, he would ask in a mellow voice as I enter his room. ‘Yes father’, would be my readymade reply. He would welcome me with his reddish smile invoking the Holy Spirit. This smile was genuine, the outpouring of spiritual energy. In spite of his illness, he would talk of the spiritual realities and their influence on my priestly life. He was truly a suffering servant, who even though in his pain had time for me and many seminarians like me.
‘When you enter the holy church or chapel there is Lord waiting for you, the angels are surrounding the Blessed Sacrament. Honour them. Revere the Lord. Enjoy the presence of the Lord. Talk to him like a friend. Share all your pains, sorrows and worries. This is enough,’ these were his simple words that motivated us to Love the Lord and enjoy his presence.
Today I thank God for this holy priest in my life. Indeed he has touched me. During the moments of crisis, he stood beside me as a strong spiritual pillar. His words, though feeble in nature have ignited sparks and enlightened my journey towards priesthood.
He has played a greater role in my life. He has contributed a greater share in forming my attitudes and behaviors. His journey of Life was beautiful!
May you Rest in Peace Dear Fr Joel, The Teacher.
