Dr.Francis Kallarackal was born on Oct 14, 1941 to Joseph and Bridgitte Kallarackal as the youngest of eight children. He belonged to the St.Micheals' Church , erstwhile Verapoly Archdiocese. He joined St.Joseph's Minor Seminary in 1956, after his primary schooling. After pre-degree in St.Albert's College, Ernakulam, he did completed his Philospohy Degree from Carmelgiri St.Josephs Seminary, Aluva and later Theology from Propoganda College in Rome. He was ordained priest on June 29th, 1968 by Cardinal Agajiania in Rome.
Archbishop Kallarackal obtained his licentiate degree from Urbana University in Rome for Theology. He later got his Post-Graduation from Fairfield University , USA in Public Education. He returned to Verapoly Archdiocese in 1970 and was posted as secretary to then Bishop Joseph Kelanthara. From 1978 to 1986 he was in charge of Social Action as Director for the Archdiocese.
In 1986 June, he was posted as the Administrator of Bangalore St.John's Medical College. He was instrumental in making the college one of the most prestigious and innovative institutions both in medical science and education.
In 1987 August 1st, as per Pope John Paul II's papal order 'Que Aptius', the Verapoly Archdiocese was divided into Verapoly and Kottapuram, and Dr.Kallarackal was appointed the first Bishop of the newly formed diocese. He took charge of the Diocese on October 4th of the same year. Taking to heart his motto for the diocese 'For God and God's People, Dr.Kallarackal led the diocese from infancy to full self-sufficiency and greater heights.
Dr.Franci Kallarackal has returned to Verapoly Archidiocese following the footsteps of late Dr.Daniel Acharuparambil. He brings to this very important and spiritual role over 22 years of experience as a Bishop, and 20 years as a priest.
