A Celebration of Faith and Fellowship: Feast Day at Sts. Peter & Paul Syro-Malankara Catholic Church, Niagara

The annual Feast Day celebrations of Sts. Peter & Paul Syro-Malankara Catholic Church, Niagara, on July 5th and 6th, 2024, stood as a profound expression of faith, unity, and community spirit. Graced by the presence of His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Philipos Mor Stephanos, the Eparchial Bishop of St Mary, Queen of Peace, USA & Canada, the event was a spiritual and cultural beacon for all who attended.

Day One: A Cultural Prelude

The celebrations began on July 5th, with an air of anticipation and reverence. The Evening Prayer and Flag Hoisting at 6:30 PM marked the official start of the festivities, symbolising the parish’s deep-rooted devotion and heritage.

At 7:30 PM, the parish hall came alive with a vibrant Cultural Evening, where members showcased their talents and celebrated their rich traditions. The gathering reflected the joyful spirit of the parish community, with heartfelt performances and expressions of gratitude for God’s blessings. Distinguished guests, including Rev. Fr. Jobin Thomas, Rev. Fr. Varghese Anchanithadathil, and Brother Christopher Thomas, enriched the evening with their presence and words of encouragement.

Day Two: Spiritual Enrichment and Holy Communion

The celebrations reached their spiritual zenith on July 6th. The day began at 5:30 PM with a Liturgical Reception for His Excellency Mor Stephanos, warmly welcomed by the faithful amidst prayers and hymns that filled the church with an atmosphere of reverence and joy.

The highlight of the celebrations was the Holy Qurbono, the sacred liturgy central to the Syro-Malankara Catholic tradition, celebrated by Mor Stephanos. This service became a moment of deep communion, fostering unity among the parishioners and strengthening their faith.

Adding to the significance of the day, seven young members of the community received their Solemn Reception of Holy Communion, marking a pivotal milestone in their spiritual journey. The sight of these children taking this sacred step was a testament to the vibrant faith and dedication of the parish in nurturing its younger generation.

The Feast Day also welcomed the participation of Rev. Fr. Stephen Joseph Bruzzese, Pastor of St. Denis Roman Catholic Church, which currently serves as the Malankara community’s place of worship, and Rev. Fr. Cherian Paulose of St. Kauma Jacobite Church, Niagara Falls. Their presence highlighted the spirit of ecumenism and collaboration that binds Christian communities together.

A Community United in Gratitude

Throughout the two-day celebrations, the community of Sts. Peter & Paul Syro-Malankara Catholic Church exemplified a profound commitment to their faith and fellowship. The inspiring presence and guidance of His Excellency Mor Stephanos added a deeper spiritual dimension to the event, leaving a lasting impression on all participants.

In closing, Rev. Fr. Aji Varghese, the parish’s Vicar, expressed heartfelt gratitude on behalf of the community to His Excellency Mor Stephanos, the esteemed guests, and all contributors who worked tirelessly to make this Feast Day celebration a meaningful and spiritually enriching experience.

This year’s Feast Day was not merely a commemoration but a living expression of the Church’s mission to bring people closer to God and to one another, embodying the timeless values of faith, love, and service.