Mangaluru: The Catholic community of Mangaluru mourns the passing of Venerable Fr Vincent Monteiro (71), a senior priest of the Mangalore Diocese, who breathed his last on August 29 at St Joseph’s Home, Jappu. A former National Director of Young Christian Students (YCS) and Young Students Movement (YSM) and Chaplain of the Asia Division of YCS, Fr Monteiro is remembered as a visionary leader who dedicated his life to guiding youth and strengthening the Church.
A life of priestly service
Born and raised in Angelore parish, Mangaluru, Fr Vincent was ordained a priest in 1981. His pastoral journey of more than four decades reflected an unwavering commitment to both the Church and youth. He began as an assistant parish priest at Kirem Church near Kinnigoli, later serving as assistant director at St Anthony’s Ashram, Jeppu.
Over the years, he ministered at Pangala, Kinnigoli, and Bendur parishes, leaving a deep impression on each community he served. He also held the role of Spiritual Director of the Catholic Congregation, where his compassionate guidance and pastoral care were highly valued.
Leadership in youth movements
Fr Vincent was especially known for his association with youth movements. He served as director of ICYM, YCS, and YSM in the Mangaluru Diocese before taking up larger responsibilities as regional director and eventually national director of YCS/YSM between 1989 and 1995.
His efforts in mentoring young students and inspiring them to lead socially responsible lives earned him widespread respect. In 2004, his dedication was further recognised when he was appointed Chaplain of the Asia Division of YCS, bringing international visibility to his leadership.
Remembered as a visionary
Church leaders, colleagues, and lay faithful remember Fr Vincent as a priest who blended pastoral care with a focus on education, youth empowerment, and social awareness. Even in his retirement at Sant Juge Vaz Home, Jeppu, he continued to remain an inspirational figure for many.
The Catholic Central Committee President Santosh D’Souza and other office-bearers expressed their grief at his passing. “Fr Vincent Monteiro was more than a priest; he was a mentor and guide to thousands of youth across India. His loss will be deeply felt,” they said in a condolence message.
Final rites
His funeral mass and last rites will be held on Sunday, August 31, at 4 p.m. at St Vincent Ferrer Church, Valencia. Parishioners, youth leaders, and clergy are expected to gather in large numbers to pay their final respects to the much-loved priest.
As the community bids farewell, Fr Vincent Monteiro will be remembered for his visionary leadership, his tireless service to youth, and his unwavering commitment to the Church. His legacy will continue to inspire both clergy and laity in the years to come.