On 26th December 2024, the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church marked a momentous occasion as five deacons were ordained into the sacred priesthood for the Eparchy of Parassala. The ceremony was conducted at St. Mary’s Cathedral, Parassala, and presided over by His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Thomas Mar Eusebius, Bishop of Parassala. This important event was a witness to the Church’s continued growth and spiritual renewal.
Five New Shepherds for the Church
The following deacons were ordained as priests, committing their lives to the service of God and His Church:
- Rev. Fr. Anit Francis Mullassery
- Rev. Fr. Sibi Thundiyil
- Rev. Fr. Bosco Karavila (Jino)
- Rev. Fr. Philip Christ Nivas
- Rev. Fr. Uzhunnuvila Alphonsus
The solemn ordination ceremony marked their transformation into priests, a role that calls for dedication, humility, and unwavering faith. The newly ordained priests pledged to shepherd their flocks with love and compassion, spreading the Gospel and embodying Christ’s teachings in their ministries.
Presided Over by His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Thomas Mar Eusebius
The ordination was graced by the presence of His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Thomas Mar Eusebius, who led the rites with spiritual depth and reverence. Known for his pastoral dedication, Mar Eusebius exhorted the new priests to uphold their duties with humility and a deep commitment to serving the faithful.
During the ceremony, His Excellency emphasized the sacred responsibility of the priesthood and the importance of embodying Christ’s love in every aspect of their ministry. His presence and blessings inspired not only the new priests but also the faithful gathered in prayer.
A Moment of Unity and Grace
The ordination was a deeply moving experience for the faithful present. The cathedral resonated with hymns of praise, prayers of consecration, and a collective sense of joy as the Church celebrated this milestone. Families, friends, and the clergy gathered to offer their blessings to the new priests, reflecting the unity and vibrancy of the Syro-Malankara Catholic community.
The sacred rites and liturgical beauty of the ceremony reminded everyone of the Church’s timeless traditions and its mission to bring hope and grace to the world.
Carrying Forward the Mission of the Church
As they embark on their priestly journey, the newly ordained priests will take on the responsibility of serving in various parishes and institutions across the Eparchy of Parassala. They are now called to be shepherds of the faithful, guiding their communities with love, wisdom, and compassion.
The simultaneous ordination celebrations in Tiruvalla and Parassala on the same day highlight the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church’s commitment to nurturing vocations and ensuring pastoral care for its faithful across regions.
Gratitude and Prayers for the New Priests
The ordination ceremony at Parassala was not only a considerable milestone for the Church but also a powerful reminder of its spiritual strength and unity. As these five priests step into their sacred ministry, they carry the prayers and blessings of their community.
Let us continue to pray for Rev. Fr. Anit Francis Mullassery, Rev. Fr. Sibi Thundiyil, Rev. Fr. Bosco Karavila, Rev. Fr. Philip Christ Nivas, and Rev. Fr. Uzhunnuvila Alphonsus, that they may be strengthened in their vocation and inspired by Christ’s love to serve faithfully and joyfully in the years ahead.