KOTHAMANGALAM: Rev. Fr. Sebastian (Sabi) Kochikunnel CMF (55), Director of Cheeral Care Home in Wayanad and former Jesus Youth Kothamangalam Zonal Coordinator, passed away suddenly on Monday following a heart attack. He belonged to the Claretian Missionaries (St. Thomas Province).

Hailing from Kochikunnel House, Thrikkariyoor, Kothamangalam, Fr. Sabi was born on January 6, 1971. Prior to entering consecrated life, he was actively engaged in Catholic youth leadership, serving as the Jesus Youth Kothamangalam Zonal Coordinator from May 1997 to May 1999. He joined the Claretian Congregation in 2001 and was ordained into the priesthood on January 4, 2011.

During his priestly ministry, Fr. Sabi served extensively across pastoral care, social rehabilitation, and youth animation. In the Latin Archdiocese of Trivandrum, he served as the Director of the Santhwana Rehabilitation Centre in Puthenthope and was closely associated with the Sadhana Renewal Centre in Manvila. He was also widely appreciated for his pastoral accompaniment of young IT professionals across the Technopark campus in Thiruvananthapuram.
At the time of his demise, he was serving as the Director of Cheeral Care Home in East Cheeral, Wayanad.

Funeral Service Notice:

The funeral services for Fr. Sabi Kochikunnel CMF will take place on Wednesday, October 7, 2026, at Claret Bhavan, Kuravilangadu. 

9:00 AM: Arrival of mortal remains and public homage  

2:00 PM: Holy Mass and burial service, followed by the burial