Fr.Idichandy

Thoughtful reflections on faith, community, and following Christ in everyday life.

Rev. Fr. Idichandy Philip Varghese

Biography

Rev. Fr. Varghese Philip Idichandy was born on December 21, 1973, as the son of Mr. C. I. Philip and Mrs. Sosamma Philip of the Kallumala Panackal Thekkethil family, belonging to St. Mary’s Orthodox Church, Puthiyacavu, Mavelikara.

He completed his early education at Bishop Hodges High School, Mavelikara. He then pursued higher studies at the University of Kerala, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry and a Master’s degree in Sociology. He later obtained his G.S.T. from the Old Seminary, Kottayam, and a degree in Theology from Serampore University.

After serving as the Secretary to His Holiness Baselios Marthoma Mathews II Catholicos, he was ordained to the priesthood by H.G. Dr. Yacob Mar Irenaeus. He went on to serve in various parishes under the Madras Diocese with dedication and commitment.

Alongside his parish ministry, Fr. Varghese has shown exceptional dedication to academic excellence. He has earned postgraduate degrees in a wide range of disciplines from various universities across India, including Philosophy, Environmental Economics, Public Administration, Malayalam, Linguistics, Gandhian Philosophy, Anthropology, Journalism, and Mass Communication. He continues his studies in multiple fields, reflecting his deep passion for knowledge.

He has served in several parishes under the Madras Diocese and later in the Bangalore Diocese. Currently, he serves as the Vicar of St.Gregorios Orthodox Cathedral, Hyderabad.

Beyond Kerala and even internationally, he is recognized as a spiritual mentor and guide among the youth of the Malankara Orthodox Church. He presently serves as a member of the Bangalore Diocese MOSC P.R.O. Committee, Coordinator of the Diocese Gospel Team, and Vice President of MGOCSM-OCYM.

Fr. Varghese has worked tirelessly for the spiritual and material growth of the parishes he has served. He also took initiative in establishing worship centers for the Church in various parts of New Zealand.

During his tenure as Vicar, he led the renovation of St. Gregorios Orthodox Church, Mathikere, Bangalore, transforming it into one of the most distinctive and beautiful churches in the region within a short span of time. Similarly, he contributed significantly to the growth of St. Mary’s Orthodox Church, Begur, by expanding its membership and overseeing the construction of a wayside cross (Kurishumthotty) and a parsonage.

He has also made his mark in literature and Christian music, authoring several books and composing devotional songs.

📚 Major Works:

  • Unknown Truths
  • Christ and the Saints on Holy Days
  • The Face of Nineveh – A Spiritual, Social, and Philosophical Perspective
  • Banyan Trees that Defeated Ignorance
  • The Radiance of Letters
  • The Hidden Facets of Truth
  • Studies on Chattampi Swamikal (D.C. Books)
  • Analysis of the Divinity of Jesus (Vol. 3)

🎶 Music Albums:

  • Messengers of Goodness
  • Holy Saints Filled with Grace
  • Saints in Eternal Praise
  • In the Glory of the Word
  • On the Sacred Shore
  • Seeking the Sheep
  • Eternal Presence
  • Eternal Love

He was also the visionary and designer behind the Bangalore Diocese Convention MELTHO Calendar (2008–2022).

Helping the needy and supporting the underprivileged is an integral part of his ministry.

With a unique blend of spiritual depth and intellectual insight, Fr. Varghese Philip Idichandy continues to inspire and guide the younger generation.