Joseph Parecattil was born in Kidangoor, Kerala, and studied at the minor seminary of Ernakulam and the major seminary of Kandy, from where he obtained a doctorate in theology (with a dissertation entitled: "Augustine vs. Pelagius on Grace"). Servant of God Fr.Varghese Palakkappillil (Payyappilly) was the manager of St.Mary's High School, Alwaye where he had his boarding life. He also attended the University of Madras, where he specialized in economics. Ordained to the priesthood on August 24, 1939, he then did pastoral work in the Archdiocese of Ernakulam, serving as assistant pastor at Narakal and North Paravur and as pastor at Chunangamvely. He was also editor of the weekly Sathyadeepamn ("Truth's Light").