Prominent Figures of the Kerala Church – 6: N.U. Joseph
N.U. Joseph is a distinguished figure in the Kerala Church, known for his writings aligned with church studies. He was born on December 24, 1913, in Naduvilaveettil, Rivot, Idappally, as the son of Shauri Unni Mariamma and was a native of the area. Following the local tradition, he began his education at Kudippally. He completed his high school education at St. Raphael L.P. School, Krishna Vilasam Middle School, and St. Albert’s High School. He then passed the Teachers’ Training Course and started his career as a teacher, retiring in 1974. Joseph also worked as a member of the Technical Division of the P.O.C. Bible (1981). He was associated with the editorial boards of notable publications such as the Don Bosco Bulletin, Thalath Monthly, and Pax Monthly.
Joseph has reviewed handwritten manuscripts of numerous texts and has written stories, poems, and articles, contributing to various periodicals. He was a regular contributor to newspapers and magazines including Malabar Mail, Kerala Times, Thozhilali, Chitrudayam, Karmalakusumam, Satyadeepam, Sathyanadam, and Cherupushpam. He has published a collection of poems titled Uthirmanikal.
Joseph’s writings are in line with church studies. His guiding principles are “Pride is a Sin, Charity is a Virtue, and Oppression is Wrong.” He has received commendations from notable figures such as Cardinal Joseph Parecattil, Fr. Vadakkan, M.M. Varkey, Fr. Abraham Attappur, and Prof. Matthew Ulakamthar for his literary efforts.
In recognition of his services, the K.C.B.C. honored him with a shawl in 1997. He also won first prize in the State-level Music Competition organized by the Palai Forona C.L.C. in 1989. The St. John Baptist Church Family Association also honored him with a shawl on the occasion of his 90th birthday. He has received many other awards and certificates. N.U. Joseph writes under the pen name “Anilan.”
