By Purushottam Nayak
Thrissur, August 19, 2026: Archbishop Raphael Cheenath, former Archbishop of Cuttack-Bhubaneswar and a courageous shepherd during the 2008 Kandhamal violence, was commemorated on his 10th death anniversary at his native parish of Pallissery in Thrissur.
A memorial Mass was celebrated on August 12, presided over by Thrissur Auxiliary Bishop Tony Neelankavil, followed by a commemorative gathering reflecting on the life and legacy of the late Archbishop.
During the Kandhamal violence, Archbishop Cheenath stood firmly with the victims, appealing to the highest authorities for protection, relief, and justice.
Despite security constraints and widespread misinformation regarding his role, he continued to advocate for displaced families and persecuted Christians and pursued justice through legal channels.
His pastoral priorities were poignantly expressed in his instruction: “Build the houses first. Churches can be rebuilt later.” For him, the restoration of dignity, safety, and stability for suffering families took precedence over the rebuilding of church structures.
The memorial gathering featured a presentation by journalist, author, and human-rights advocate Anto Akkara on Archbishop Cheenath’s life and legacy. Akkara highlighted the Archbishop’s courage, pastoral commitment, and enduring pursuit of truth, justice, and the rehabilitation of Kandhamal survivors.
Archbishop Cheenath passed away on August 14, 2016, just days after the Supreme Court delivered a significant judgment enhancing compensation for victims of the Kandhamal violence.
Ten years after his death, his legacy continues to be remembered not through the controversies and allegations that once surrounded him, but through his unwavering solidarity with the wounded and displaced.
His life remains a powerful testimony to pastoral courage, justice, and fidelity to those entrusted to his care.