Faith Tested by Fire
Saint Devasahayam Pillai, born as Neelakandan Pillai in 1712 and baptized as Lazarus, is one of the most inspiring witnesses of Christian faith in Indian history. Born into an affluent Hindu family in the kingdom of Travancore, he rose to prominence as a trusted royal official, reminding us that God calls people from every background to holiness.
“The Lord does not see as mortals see; they look on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.” — 1 Samuel 16:7
Through his friendship with Captain Eustachius De Lannoy, a Dutch naval commander who trained the Travancore army, Neelakandan encountered the Christian faith and chose to follow Christ. Baptized in 1745, he took the name Devasahayam, meaning “God is my help” echoing the psalmist’s trust
“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” — Psalm 46:1
His conversion provoked hostility. Falsely accused, imprisoned, tortured, and exiled, Devasahayam endured suffering with remarkable patience and forgiveness. Even in pain, he prayed for his persecutors, living out Jesus’ command:
“Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” — Matthew 5:44
In 1752, he was martyred for refusing to renounce his faith. On 28 June 2012, Pope Benedict XVI authorized the Congregation for the Causes of Saints to promulgate a decree regarding the martyrdom of Pillai and he was granted the title “Venerable”. Pillai is the first Indian layman who is not part of any religious institute to be elevated to the rank of “Blessed“.
“Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life.” — Revelation 2:10
“For to me, living is Christ and dying is gain.” — Philippians 1:21
Reflection
On 21 February 2020, Pope Francis recognized a miracle attributed to the intercession of Devasahayam, clearing his way to canonisation. He is the first Catholic in India who is neither an ordained minister nor a religious to be officially recognized as a saint. On 15th May 2022, the Pope Francis raised Devasahayam Pillai to sainthood along with nine other candidates.
Saint Devasahayam Pillai lived the Gospel fully, proving the truth of Scripture. His feast is celebrated on January 14, calling us to courageous faith, selfless service and unwavering trust in God.
🕊️ Peace Sunday 2026 — Pax Christi
Peace be with you all: towards an ‘unarmed and disarming’ peace
(Pope Leo) paxchristi.org.uk
Peace Sunday 2026 is observed on Sunday, 18 January, across England and Wales. Guided by Pope Leo XIV’s message for the World Day of Peace, the theme calls us towards an “unarmed and disarming peace,” rooted in nonviolence, dialogue, and mutual trust.
Pax Christi England and Wales invites parishes to reflect on how peace is built through love, justice, reconciliation, and faithful witness. Peace is not merely the absence of conflict, but the presence of right relationships grounded in Christ.
The life of Saint Devasahayam Pillai speaks powerfully to this call. His response to injustice was not violence but faith, forgiveness, and steadfast trust in God— showing how Christian discipleship builds true peace.
Our Call
As we honour Saint Devasahayam Pillai and observe Peace Sunday together, we are invited to be courageous in faith and active builders of peace in our homes, parish, and society.
May Christ, the Prince of Peace, guide us to reject hatred, choose forgiveness, and live the Gospel with humility and love.
