In one of the most underdeveloped regions of India, the Utkela Mission is lighting the lamp of hope and transformation.
Utkela Mission:
History of the Mission: St. Michael’s Mission, widely known as Utkela Mission, was established in 2022 by the Eparchy of Kothamangalam as an ad gentes mission, within the Eparchy of Shamshabad in the civil state of Odisha. Inspired by the powerful words of His Beatitude Mar Raphael Thattil, “A Church is dead unless it is missionary,” Bishop Mar George Madathikandathil commissioned Fr. Joseph Koonanical and Fr. Mathew Plathottathil as the pioneer missionaries. After initial language training and groundwork in Kalahandi and Nuapada districts, the mission was formally inaugurated in Bhawanipatna. Despite linguistic, cultural, and geographical challenges, the missionaries laid a strong foundation through perseverance and deep faith. Today, regular prayer gatherings are held in five villages, and Holy Qurbana is celebrated in one of them, drawing around 200 faithful from 52 families. Through consistent prayer, preaching, and the celebration of feasts, the St. Thomas Christian tradition began to take root in the hearts of the people. A significant milestone in the mission’s growth was the introduction of a one-year missionary formation programme for seminarians, which has proved highly effective in shaping committed missionaries and creating vibrant communities. The blessing of Jeeva Bhavan, the mission’s central house, in 2025, marked a new era of growth and permanence.
Social Works and Achievements: From the outset, the mission has prioritized education, charity, and community development. The formal registration of the Jeevajyoti Trust Utkela enabled a broader reach in social services. Over 25 tuition centres were set up in remote villages to support underprivileged children. Scholarships, school supplies, and educational aid continue to uplift many families. The mission also provides medical assistance, distributes clothing, facilitates clean water sources like wells and tube wells, and supports house construction for the needy.
Vision and Scope: Looking forward, Utkela Mission envisions becoming a vibrant spiritual and social centre in Western Odisha. Future planning includes constructing village churches, expanding women’s empowerment initiatives, and enhancing educational and charitable outreach. The recent arrival and commitment of the MSJ Sisters opens new opportunities, especially in the medical field. Rooted in faith, the mission aspires to be a beacon of hope and transformation in one of India’s most underserved regions.
Rev. Fr. Mathew Plathottathil
