Sojan Mathew, who was born into the Kottarathil family in Jadkal, in the south Indian state of Karnataka, embarked on this priesthood journey when he realized God was calling him to be His instrument. Sojan was born to Soby Mathew and Shobha on February 5, 1991. The Catholic formation that he received from his parents had a huge impact on him.
After completing his education, Sojan joined the seminary in 2009. He did his theology and philosophy studies at St Thomas Apostolic Seminary in Vadavathoor, Kottayam, in the neighboring state of Kerala. Following the priestly formation, Sojan was ordained to the priesthood by Mar Lawrence Mukkuzhy, bishop of Belthangady, on December 29, 2018. Fr Sojan's first appointment was at St Alphonsa Church, Nellyadi, where he served as an assistant vicar.
In 2021, while serving as the vicar of St Sebastian's church in Shirady, he was diagnosed with blood cancer. Before starting chemotherapy, Fr Sojan offered a Mass and prayed, “Jesus, let Your will be done.” He also sought the intercession of Blessed Carlo Acutis, who died of the same disease. Fr Sojan became paralyzed in the month of August. Although the cancer diagnosis took him by surprise, he never questioned God's plan. He believes that the sickness will bring about his own sanctification and greater glory to God. Since then, Fr Sojan has been serving God in a wheelchair, firmly believing that Jesus is with him every moment.
"I am not worried about cancer, I consider it as a part of God's plan for me," Fr Sojan told SW News. He never misses celebrating Mass at home where he is now undergoing treatment. When people visit Fr Sojan, they feel drawn to Jesus, as he shares the love and hope he finds in God. Fr Sojan believes that Jesus is using him as an instrument to lead others to Him even though he is unable to preach or celebrate Holy Mass publicly. Fr Sojan has a special devotion to Blessed Acutis, who was born in the same year as him.
Fr. Sojan’s unwavering trust in God’s goodness is a great inspiration to every Christian to take up his or her own cross and follow Christ.
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