Father Al Pakianather

At a very early age Father Al Pakianather knew he wanted to be a priest. Instead of playing with action figures or other toys, imagine a young boy, around six or seven years old, playing the role of a priest in his own play session called ‘church’. Props included different color towels for vestments, a small chalice and a make-shift altar. While at that time he had all intentions of following his dreams, little did he know that his ministry would eventually reach far beyond Sri Lanka and India – taking him all the way to the east coast of the United States.

Growing up in a religious environment, Father Al attended the Christian Brothers School and College. He then attended Sacred Heart Seminary in India, where he studied for seven years. During this time he had the privilege of meeting Mother Theresa twice. Mother Theresa’s simple words had profound meaning and became an inspiration for him. He still quotes her often as he carries out his ministry. After his ordination, Father Al returned to the island of Sri Lanka and began his missionary work. Working at six different churches, sometimes traveling by boat to reach people, Father Al ministered to more than 700 families. As he carried out his work the conditions in Sri Lanka continued to deteriorate, the result of a Civil War that began in 1983.

A motorcycle accident resulting in a serious back injury led Father Al to seek medical treatment in the United States. While he was here the situation in Sri Lanka continued to worsen. Many of his parishioners went to India and even his family left their home, with only the clothing they had on their back. At that time, the Bishop instructed him to remain in the U.S. and Father Al was placed at Blessed Sacrament Parish in Valley Stream.

At Blessed Sacrament Father Al was involved in the Baptism program and was the moderator for the Rosary Society, The Holy Name Society and the Over 50 Society. He also began a Nocturnal Adoration Program, which drew nearly 300 devoted parishioners every Friday evening. During this time, Father Al also started working on his Masters degree at Iona College, attending class every Friday for three years. He pursued pastoral and family counseling to take a step beyond philosophy and theology, so he could better help others with the different stresses and challenges that are a part of today’s society.

After ten years, Father Al was transfered to St. Rose of Lima. Facing a parish that was twice the size of Blessed Sacrament was a little challenging. However, Fr. Al quickly adjusted to the busy parish schedule. He now serves as moderator of the Rosary Altar Society and coordinator for Pre-Cana. He also visits St. Rose of Lima School, spending time with the children who especially love all of his gadgets! Father Al has quite a collection – ranging from singing fish and turkeys to dancing pumpkins and spiders. He believes these simple, different tools can help children remember the real message he delivers through them. And yes, it works on adults too!

Father Al is a believer in simplicity. “We can find spirituality in simple things in much of our life,” he says. “The simple ways God presents Himself to us can be surprising and enlightening.”

Fr. Al celebrated his 25^th anniversary as a priest in September 2003. He continues to inspire and nurture those around him, bringing Christ’s messages to all in simple ways.