After touching hearts in Musaffah and Abu Dhabi, His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Thomas Mor Anthonios, the shepherd of the Gurgaon-Delhi Eparchy, reached Dubai on 16th November to continue his mission of care and connection. This visit to St. Mary’s Catholic Church became a powerful reminder of the spiritual ties that bind the Syro-Malankara faithful, even in faraway lands.
A Heartfelt Welcome
The afternoon at St. Mary’s came alive with anticipation and joy. Clergy, parish representatives, and families lined the entrance to receive Mor Anthonios with warmth and reverence. Every detail, from the gathering of the faithful to the organisation of the reception, reflected the deep regard the community holds for their spiritual leader.
The Holy Qurbono, celebrated by Mor Anthonios, stood at the centre of the evening. The church resounded with prayers and hymns, as the congregation joined in a spirit of unity. In his homily, he spoke not just of faith but of living it meaningfully—urging all present to let the Word of God take root in their everyday lives. It wasn’t just a sermon; it was a call to weave spirituality into the fabric of daily struggles and joys.
Moments of First Grace
For some, this evening carried an even deeper meaning. Among the many gathered were young members of the community receiving their First Holy Communion. Mor Anthonios presided over the ceremony with tenderness, guiding the children through this sacred milestone. Parents watched as their little ones took their first steps into the fuller life of the Church—a moment of grace not just for the children but for every witness present.
Fellowship and Reflection
After the Holy Qurbono, the evening transitioned into a fellowship meal. This wasn’t merely an occasion to break bread; it became a moment to reflect on shared faith and unity. Parish leaders took the opportunity to thank Mor Anthonios for his tireless efforts in spiritually nurturing the Syro-Malankara diaspora in the UAE. Conversations flowed, as did the spirit of togetherness.
The Journey Continues
This visit to Dubai is just one part of Mor Anthonios’ ongoing mission across the UAE. In the days to come, he will journey to Ras Al Khaimah and other regions, continuing to meet with Syro-Malankara families, celebrating sacraments, and extending his guidance. Each step of this journey reinforces the enduring bond between the Church and its people, no matter the miles that separate them from their homeland.
A Living Connection
What makes this visit significant isn’t just the presence of Mor Anthonios—it’s what his presence represents. For the diaspora community, often navigating the challenges of a foreign land, his visit is a reminder of the Church’s embrace and its unwavering support. It is a thread that ties those in Dubai, Ras Al Khaimah, and beyond to the wider tapestry of the Syro-Malankara tradition.
In these moments, as prayers rise in unison and hymns echo through sacred spaces, the faithful are reminded of a truth that transcends geography: the Church is not just a building, and faith is not bound by borders.
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