The Inspiring Journey of Fr. Faustine Lucas Lobo: From Humble Beginnings to Remarkable Leadership | Global TV
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In the small village of Berva in Thumbe Village of Dakshina Kannada, nestled amidst the tranquil fields of Karnataka, a boy was born to a humble teacher and farmer. Few could have imagined that this child, raised in the simplicity of rural life, would one day rise to become a towering figure in the Catholic Church and a great hope and support for countless individuals. This is the story of Fr. Faustine Lucas Lobo; a journey of grit, grace, and greatness.
Humble Beginnings, Profound Lessons
Born on April 22, 1963, Fr. Faustine’s early life was anything but easy. His father, a schoolteacher and farmer, exemplified discipline and diligence, setting a high standard for his children. He was a man of unwavering principles, firm resolve, and clear values, embodying great discipline and focus. For Faustine, his father was his role model. He had literally imbibed the qualities in him as exactly and as perfectly that we see him with the kind of seriousness that his father had.
It is not that easy for someone even at the known circles to approach him with casual stuffs and silly thoughts. He look very serious and people take him more serious than what he is. He is always open to people who are dedicated and are true to themselves. He connects with people who are sincere, focused, and share a sense of purpose. This is how he had come up in life from his early childhood.
Neighbours would first approach his mother whenever they wanted an advice or needed to convey something to his father. Once she gave them the go-ahead, they would politely approach him and seek his advice on how to address the matter.
The daily routine in his childhood was a delicate balance of studies, farm work, and familial responsibilities. He did all of them with dedication and diligence. It was a routine for him walking five miles to school and five miles back home, assisting with household chores, and fetching water from the well every day. It has become part of his nature and he could involve in them hundred percent.
Hardship did not discourage him. He never had even felt so. Instead, it fuelled his emotional resilience. He didn’t have much, but he had a strong will. He was proud to be the son of a well-respected teacher. Young Faustine was lucky to be brought up in a systemic environment. He was giving hundred percent attention while doing whatever that he was doing. Reading was less. Study time was limited, but whatever read went right into his memory. He scored high marks in all exams; all because of his grasping power and photographic memory that he had developed in the childhood itself. Love what you do and be passionate about them; he says!
A Call to Serve: The Birth of a Priest
Fr. Faustine’s journey to the seminary wasn’t preordained; it was a calling that emerged gradually, nurtured by his deep faith and desire to serve. In 1981, he entered St. Joseph’s Seminary in Jeppu, Mangalore. A decade-long spiritual and academic formation. Ordained in 1990 at Milagres Church.
Fr. Faustine’s first significant challenge came in Bidar, a remote mission territory where he worked tirelessly with the underprivileged. He thought he was thrown out from the mainstream and there is no possibility of going back. Obedience was one of his prime virtues that he had learned at home. He took the remote posting very positively and had worked tirelessly. It was there that his resilience was tested and purpose reaffirmed: “The mission field taught me patience and compassion,” he said with a broad smile and with a sense of satisfaction.
The Reluctant Leader Who Excelled
At just 33, Fr. Faustine was thrust into the role of Director at Canara Organization for Development and Peace (CODP) Mangalore. It was a very high position, naturally reserved for senior priests. “I had no prior experience running such a significant organization, but I got into the challenge,” he shares.
For seven years, he transformed CODP into a dynamic force for social justice, addressing issues ranging from poverty to education. His philosophy was simple yet profound: “If you give your best, God will do the rest.” This mind-set would become his guiding principle, propelling him to even greater heights.
The National Stage: A Visionary’s Rise
In 2011, Fr. Faustine was appointed National Director of Pontifical Mission Societies (PMS). This was a role of immense prestige and responsibility. He was chosen for this post on account of his unparalleled dedication and track record in comparison with candidates with advanced academic credentials.
During his tenure, Fr. Faustine redefined the role of missionary work in India. He brought innovation, accountability, and collaboration to the forefront, ensuring that the Church’s outreach programs touched the lives of the most marginalized. His work got recognised and he was later invited to join PMS International’s Finance Committee. He was the first Indian to hold such a position.
Juggling Roles, Inspiring Lives
Leadership often demands sacrifices, but Fr. Faustine embraced every role with unwavering commitment. Whether serving as Public Relations Officer for the Karnataka Bishops’ Council, Director of the Pastoral Institute, or Coordinator for diocesan commissions, he managed to excel without losing sight of his core mission: to serve with humility. “I learned to balance multiple hats, but the key was staying rooted in faith,” he reflects. His tenure as Secretary of the Karnataka United Christian Forum for Human Rights further cemented his reputation as a defender of justice and equality.
A Champion of Empowerment
Fr. Faustine Lobo’s social impact extends far beyond the Church. He has been a relentless advocate for human rights, particularly for marginalized groups like domestic workers. By establishing networks like Bandhavya and registering labour rights organizations, he has given a voice to the voiceless.
His tele-serial Divya Sannidhi, showcasing the historical churches of Karnataka, reflects his creative spirit and ability to blend faith with culture. With 104 episodes aired, the series was a cultural phenomenon, inspiring countless viewers.
New Horizons: A Visionary’s Next Chapter
As Fr. Faustine prepares to assume leadership at the Father Muller Charitable Institutions in 2025, he reflects on the journey that brought him here. “Every role I’ve taken was an opportunity to glorify God and uplift others,” he says. His plans for Father Muller Institutions include expanding healthcare, education, and social outreach, ensuring that the institution becomes a lighthouse for those in need.
Legacy of Faith, Hope, and Determination
Fr. Faustine Lobo’s life is a master class in leadership, service, and unwavering faith. From humble beginnings in Berva to holding some of the most prestigious positions in the Church, he has shown that true greatness lies in serving others.
His story of total involvement and deeper dedication on all that comes on the way is a true role model. Challenges are stepping stones, not roadblocks. That is the take away. His life’s philosophy as mentioned earlier “Do your best, and let God do the rest” talks about his person and vision much louder.
He is an authentic leader. As he continues his journey, Fr. Faustine remains a shining example of what it means to lead with heart, inspire with vision, and serve with humility. Despite facing numerous challenges, Fr. Lobo persevered and went on to achieve great things. His journey was not without its obstacles, but he learned to adapt and thrive in the face of adversity. His philosophy of “putting in minimum effort and getting maximum results” may seem unconventional, but it has served him well throughout his life. That’s how he had managed to take up various works. With hard work, perseverance, and a commitment to our values, we can overcome even the most daunting challenges and achieve greatness.
