A. Discourses by De Lannoy :
Eustache De Lannoy, a devout believer, was known for his resemblance to his patron Saint Eustachius. He possessed the same qualities of bravery, intelligence, holiness, and sincerity. In an effort to console his friend Nilakandan, De Lannoy shared his Christian faith with him. He recounted the story of Job from the Old Testament, highlighting Job's unwavering trust in God despite facing immense tragedy. Nilakandan found solace in Job's absolute confidence in God, which he felt was lacking in his own understanding of Hinduism.
This conversation planted the seed of God's word in Nilakandan's heart. "Just as a pearl develops within an oyster, the teachings of Jesus matured within his soul." Through ongoing discussions, Nilakandan became convinced of the truths of the Christian faith and made the decision to be baptized. He shared his decision with his friend De Lannoy, showcasing the powerful impact of De Lannoy's lay evangelization ministry. De Lannoy then entrusted Nilakandan with a letter to Fr. Giovanni Battista Buttari, S.J., the head of the Neman Mission in Vadakkankulam.
De Lannoy had a specific reason for sending Nilakandan to the Jesuit Mission in Vadakkankulam, which was located outside the kingdom of Travancore. De Lannoy was well aware of the Travancore Government's prohibition on new conversions to Christianity. With the exception of the fisher people residing along the coast and in the interior hamlets, who had already embraced Christianity, no one else was allowed to convert to the faith.
De Lannoy had to find a way to get Nilakandan Pillai baptized without risking his life. This led him to take an escape route to the Neman Mission near Vadakkankulam, beyond the Travancore border. The Captain was well aware of the dangers involved in this decision, especially considering Nilakandan Pillai's noble status. The king of Travancore had made it clear that any nobleman who converted to Christianity would face imprisonment or death if they left his court.
B. Meeting with Giovanni Battista Buttari, S.J. :
Upon reaching Vadakkankulam, Nilakandan Pillai approached Fr. Buttari expressing his strong desire to convert to Christianity and requesting baptism. Nilam insisted on an immediate baptism, but Fr. Buttari, for valid reasons, preferred to postpone it. Fr. Buttari advised Nilakandan to undergo a period of catechumenate, without specifying its duration. This cautious approach was taken due to Nilakandan's high social status, which could pose a threat if the king discovered his conversion. Fr. Buttari aimed to assess the sincerity of Nilakandan's decision and the depth of his commitment to the Catholic Faith. There may have been doubts regarding Nilakandan's true intentions, as Fr. Buttari feared he might renounce his faith due to worldly temptations or his societal position.
C. Catechumenate and the Testing of Nilakandan Pillai by the Priest :
Throughout the nine-month period of catechumenate, Nilakandan frequently resided in Vadakkankulam. This stay in Vadakkankulam provided him with an additional opportunity to examine his motivations for embracing Christianity.
The village itself was plagued by a deep-rooted caste consciousness, particularly between the Nadars and the Vellalas, both of whom were Catholics. This raised a fundamental question for Nilakandan: could one truly be a Christian while still adhering to the caste system? Contemplating this dilemma, Nilakandan resolved within himself that he aspired to embody the essence of Christianity. He made the firm decision to become a devoted follower of Christ and dismantle the oppressive caste system.
Nilakandan's choice to embrace Christianity carried significant implications. By converting, he would relinquish his higher social status and be regarded as equal to other Christians, who were often considered the lowest in society. In the region of Travancore, the initial growth of Latin Catholicism primarily occurred among the lower castes. Thus, Nilakandan's alignment with this marginalized group would result in a downward shift in various aspects of his life, including social standing, economic opportunities, and even political influence.
Additionally, not a single individual from his social group had embraced Christianity. The royal court where he served was predominantly composed of Brahmins, who would strongly disapprove of his conversion to Christianity. This decision posed a significant threat to his life. Nevertheless, the devoted servant of God remained resolute in his choice and assured Father Buttari that he was willing to relinquish his position in the King's service in order to seek the true God. He was prepared to sacrifice all worldly benefits, even his own life.
Over a span of nine months, Nilakandan Pillai journeyed to Vadakkankulam to deepen his understanding of the Catholic faith and interact with the Christian community in the vicinity. His godfather-to-be, Chithambram Pillai, accompanied him briefly in Travancore, facilitating his exposure to various Christian congregations. This exposure allowed him to familiarize himself with the traditions and lifestyle of ordinary Christians during that era. The desire for baptism had already taken root within him, driving him forward with unwavering determination. His decision to be baptized stemmed from a profound personal conviction, as he reiterated his commitment to the priest once more.
Father, I am not forced to embrace Christianity. My unwavering Faith has led me to you, willing to give up everything - wealth, status, family, and even life itself - for what I believe in.
D. Baptism :
Under the guidance of De Lannoy, Nilakandan underwent the sacrament of baptism in Vadakankulam, administered by Fr. Buttari. During this ceremony, Nilakandan was given the Christian name Devasahayam, which translates to Lazarus. Fr. Buttari recognized in Nilakandan not only a desire to be baptized, but also a fervent zeal to sacrifice his life and shed his blood for his faith. Impressed by his commitment, Fr. Buttari agreed to baptize him on May 14, 1745, when Nilakandan was 32 years old. The ancient chapel of the Holy Family in Vadakkankulam still bears an inscription commemorating this significant event of spiritual rebirth.
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In order to adapt to the local culture, the Jesuit missionaries translated biblical names into Tamil. As a result, Nilakandan's baptismal name became "Devasahayam," which corresponds to the biblical name "Lazarus." Interestingly, Fr. Buttari himself adopted the Tamil name "Paranjyothinathar." As a newly baptized Christian, Devasahayam found great joy in his faith and eagerly participated in the Eucharist alongside other Christian communities. He also received the sacraments of Confession and Communion during his time in the Vadakkankulam area, further deepening his spiritual journey.
