A Day of Grace: Priestly Ordination in Bethany Navajyothi Province

On a radiant morning of 4 January 2025, the Bethany Navajyothi Province witnessed a profound moment of joy and spiritual fulfilment as three deacons of the Order of the Imitation of Christ (OIC)—Dn. Varghese Mundamattam OIC, Dn. Jibin Sakkariya Pambooreth OIC, and Dn. Linson Mathew Vellamkuzhiyil OIC—were ordained to the sacred priesthood at Girideepam Bethany Ashram, Kottayam. This remarkable event, marking their commitment to the mission of Christ, was attended by clergy, religious, and faithful, all gathered in thanksgiving for this blessing upon the Church.

His Excellency Mor Pachomios: A Shepherd for His Community

The Holy Ordination was officiated by His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Mathews Mor Pachomios, Bishop of the Eparchy of Khadki–Pune, himself a member of the Order of the Imitation of Christ and a son of the Bethany Navajyothi Province. His Excellency’s journey of formation began in December 1979 within the Bethany community, making his presence on this occasion particularly meaningful. Drawing from his own life of dedication and service, His Excellency imparted a heartfelt exhortation to the newly ordained priests, calling upon them to embrace their priestly ministry with humility, devotion, and an unwavering commitment to the Gospel.

A Communion of Hierarchs

Adding to the spiritual significance of the occasion was the presence of His Grace Most Rev. Dr. Thomas Mor Koorilos, Metropolitan Archbishop of the Archieparchy of Tiruvalla, whose words of encouragement and prayers uplifted all those present. His Grace reminded the faithful of the vital role of priests in the life of the Church, as they bring Christ’s love and mercy to the world.

The Newly Ordained Priests: Servants of Christ

• Rev. Fr. Varghese Mundamattam OIC will offer his First Holy Qurbono on 5 January 2025 at St. Mary’s MSCC, Chettukuzhy, Tiruvalla, at 2:30 PM.
• Rev. Fr. Jibin Sakkariya Pambooreth OIC will celebrate his First Holy Qurbono on 8 January 2025 at St. Thomas MSCC, Chokkad, Bathery, at 9:00 AM.
• Rev. Fr. Linson Mathew Vellamkuzhiyil OIC will offer his First Holy Qurbono on 12 January 2025 at Holy Redeemer’s MSCC, Kalewadi, Khadki–Pune, at 9:00 AM.

These young priests, having dedicated themselves to a life of prayer, service, and mission, now stand ready to serve the Church and its faithful with zeal and love.

A Witness to the Bethany Legacy

The Order of the Imitation of Christ, founded by Venerable Archbishop Mar Ivanios, has always stood as a beacon of spiritual renewal within the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church. The ordination of these three priests reflects the enduring vitality and missionary spirit of the Bethany community, particularly within the Navajyothi Province.

His Excellency Mor Pachomios, himself a testament to the fruits of this community, expressed his deep joy and gratitude for this occasion, urging the faithful to continue to pray for vocations and to support the ministry of these new priests.

Gratitude and Hope

The celebration concluded with heartfelt expressions of gratitude to all who contributed to the spiritual and logistical preparations of this event. The faithful departed with a renewed sense of hope and joy, witnessing the continued blessings of the Lord upon the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church.

Let us join in prayer for Rev. Fr. Varghese Mundamattam OIC, Rev. Fr. Jibin Sakkariya Pambooreth OIC, and Rev. Fr. Linson Mathew Vellamkuzhiyil OIC, that their ministry may bear abundant fruit for the glory of God and the salvation of souls. May their lives shine as a testament to the love of Christ, bringing His light to the ends of the earth.