About Us
The heart of Our Lady of the Shoals is the faith, work and generosity of good people bringing God’s presence into the world, inspiring a conversation among the generations. It is here that the faithful gather to worship God, give honor to Mary, and are sent to spread God’s word wherever they go.
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Our former pastor, Fr. Benny, returned to his home in India after 5 years of graciously serving at Our Lady of the Shoals. We anticipate welcoming a new pastor in July 2026.
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About Fr. Benny Karimalikkal
Hello,
I am Fr. Benny Karimalikkal. You may call me Fr. Benny.
I was born on September 16, 1967, in Kerala, Southern India. I received my degree of Philosophy and Theology from Paurastya Vidhyapitham in Kottayam, India and earned a Master’s degree in Social Work (M.S.W) and in Psychology (M.S.). I was ordained a priest on December 27, 1993. Saint Anthony is my patron saint, and my feast day is June 13. My parents went to their heavenly home for eternal rest. Now I have one brother and one sister. My sister is a nun.
I have served as a pastor and diocesan director of pious associations and as executive director of a drug and alcohol addiction center. At the invitation of the Most Reverend Steven J Raica, Bishop of Birmingham in Alabama, seven priests of the Diocese of Irinjalakuda, India, including myself, are working in the Diocese of Birmingham at present. I arrived in the U.S. on March 7, 2021, and was associate pastor at Saint Francis University parish at Tuscaloosa and Decatur. Now I am honored so much with the chance to serve you in Tuscumbia at Our Lady of the Shoals.
I would like to be here for you in your spiritual needs. I am ever ready to serve you in Tuscumbia. Your suggestions are always welcome. My prayers are there for you as well. I humbly request you keep me in your daily prayers.
Thank you one and all.