Fr Mathew Areeplackal, born on December 1972 in a small village in Idukki, experienced a life-changing moment in 1986 that led him to respond to God’s call to priesthood. He joined St Joseph’s Minor Seminary, Kothamangalam, in 1990 and was ordained on 1st January 2000 by His Excellency Bishop John Punnekoottil.

He served as assistant vicar and vicar in several parishes across the Eparchy of Kothamangalam before moving to Australia in 2017. He ministered at St Alphonsa Syro-Malabar Parish, Townsville, and later at St Alphonsa Syro-Malabar Forane Parish, Parramatta. In March 2025, he was appointed as the parish priest of St Alphonsa Syro-Malabar Cathedral, Melbourne.

He has served the Church in various leadership and teaching roles, including assistant director of KCSL and Mission League, director of SMYM (Idukki), lecturer at Mary Matha Major Seminary and St Ephrem’s Minor Seminary, and Bible teacher at Denaha Institute. He is also a consultor to the Eparchy of Melbourne.

A gifted author and speaker, Fr Mathew has written two books, contributed lyrics to devotional albums, and published journal articles on Biblical studies. He played a key role in redesigning the Year 5–7 Catechism textbooks for the Eparchy of Melbourne and has served among tribal communities in Kerala.

He is a rank-holder in Philosophy, a black belt in Karate, and a recognised contributor to All India Radio and Malayalam dailies. He is also known for his pastoral dedication, academic depth, and dynamic presence in the community.