Joseph Vithayathil was an Indian Catholic priest born in 1865 in the Ernakulam district of Kerala. Following his ordination in 1894, he became well known for his spiritual role in the life of the mystic Mariam Thresia. He served as her spiritual director and assisted in the founding of the Congregation of the Holy Family. Throughout his long ministry, he provided significant guidance to the religious community and supported various educational initiatives for women.