I am Fr. Vijay Bandanadam. I come from Veeravally, a small and beautiful Catholic village in the south of India. I am one of eight children in my family – the second youngest – with four brothers and three sisters. My childhood was filled with happiness and joy, growing up in a faith-filled environment surrounded by good, caring people who nurtured my spiritual growth.

From a young age, during my school years, I felt a deep desire to become a priest. This decision was strongly supported by my parents and my family. I am blessed to come from a family where another brother of mine also became a priest with the Divine Word Missionaries, making me the second priest in our family.

I belong to the Order of the Holy Spirit Fathers (ALCP/OSS), India Province. I joined the Order in 1997 after completing my 10th class, and my formation journey spanned over 13 years in different parts of India. I was ordained a priest on 2nd December 2009 at St. Francis Xavier’s Church in Veeravally.

After ordination, I served in various parishes and worked in the minor seminary as the Superior of the formation house. In 2018, I was invited to Australia for pastoral ministry – a great opportunity and blessing in my life. I began my ministry in the Diocese of Sandhurst, first appointed as an Assistant Parish Priest in the Wangaratta parishes. After 10 months, I was asked to take up the parish at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Benalla.

Initially, I served as Administrator for two years, and later Bishop Shane appointed me as the Parish Priest. I have been here at St. Joseph’s for six years now, and I feel deeply happy and blessed in my ministry. The people here are so supportive, caring, and loving, always encouraging me and working together to build a strong faith community.

My priestly life and ministry have been truly joyful and fulfilling. I am grateful for the love, respect, and cooperation I receive from all the parishioners, which inspires me to serve them with dedication and love each day.

Thank you to each and every one of you for your constant support, prayers, and encouragement.