Diocese of Puttur Celebrates 15th Anniversary on 19th, 20th and 21st January

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Diocese of Puttur Celebrates 15th Anniversary on 19th, 20th and 21st January

The Syro Malankara Catholic Church Diocese of Puttur, the first Syro Malankara Catholic diocese in India’s southern Karnataka, is celebrating its 15th anniversary on 19, 20 and 21 of January 2024 at St Johns Medical College Auditorium Bangalore. The diocese, which was erected on 25 January 2010 by His Beatitude Moran Mor Baselios Cleemis Catholicos, the Father and Head of the Church, comprises of 22 churches and 36 educational and 4 charitable institutions in the civil districts of Dakshina Kannada, Udupi, Kodagu, Hassan, Chikmagalur, Mandya, Mysore, Shimoga and Chamarajanagar.

The anniversary celebration is an occasion for the faithful of the diocese to come together, celebrate their faith and share their experience from all three regions of the diocese: Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu. The theme of the celebration is “Smaraneya Hadiyalli”, which means “On the Path of Remembrance” in Kannada. The celebration will include a solemn Holy Qurbana, a cultural programme, a documentary screening and a felicitation ceremony.

On this auspicious occasion, the diocese also prayerfully commemorates its former prelates who have contributed to the growth and development of the diocese and the Church. They are:

  • Major Archbishop Cyril Baselios Catholicos (1935-2007), the first major archbishop of the Syro Malankara Catholic Church, who was elevated by Pope John Paul II in 1995. He was the Metropolitan Archbishop and head of the Syro Malankara Catholic Church from 1995 to 2007. He was instrumental in raising the Malankara Catholic Church to the status of a Major Archiepiscopal Church sui iuris in 2005.
  • Most Rev. Joseph Mar Severios (1894-1955), the Metropolitan Arch Bishop of Tiruvalla, who was born in the Malankara Syriac Orthodox family and ordained a bishop in 1933. He was a close friend of Archbishop Mar Ivanios, the founder of the Malankara Catholic Church, but initially opposed the reunion with the Catholic Church. However, after studying the history of the Church, he professed the Catholic faith and was received by Mar Ivanios in 1937. He became the Auxiliary Bishop of the Archeparchy of Tiruvalla in 1938 and later succeeded Jacob Mar Theophilos as the Metropolitan.
  • Most Rev. Dr. Geevarghese Mar Divannasios (1950-2018), the first Bishop of the Eparchy of Puttur, who was born in the ancient Syrian Christian family of Ottathengil. He was ordained a priest in 1978 and a bishop in 1996. He was the Bishop of Bathery from 1996 to 2010 and the Administrator of the Malankara Catholic Church after the demise of Moran Mor Cyril Baselios Catholicos. He was appointed as the first Bishop of the newly erected Eparchy of Puttur in 2010 and resigned due to health issues in 2017.
  • Rev. Fr. Abraham Kalapattu (1984-2018), a priest of the Eparchy of Puttur, who served as a missionary, a seminary professor, a parish priest and a spiritual director in various places. He was known for his simplicity, humility and dedication to the Church. He passed away on 14 January 2018.

The diocese expresses its profound reverence, gratitude and affection to these departed souls and presents a documentary titled “Smaraneya Hadiyalli” to honour their memory and legacy. The documentary, which is produced by Shanthivani Communications under the aegis of MCA Bengaluru, showcases the life and ministry of these former prelates and their impact on the diocese and the Church. The documentary will be screened at the anniversary celebration and will be available on YouTube and other social media platforms.

The diocese invites all the faithful, clergy, religious and well-wishers to join the anniversary celebration and to pray for the intercession of the former prelates. The diocese also requests the prayers and blessings of His Holiness Pope Francis, His Beatitude Moran Mor Baselios Cardinal Cleemis Catholicos, the Major Archbishop of the Syro Malankara Catholic Church, Bishop Geevarghese Makarios Kalayil, Metropolitan of the Diocese of Puttur and all the bishops and priests of the Universal Church.

Pathanamthitta Eparchy Revamps MCYM Constitution

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Pathanamthitta Eparchy Revamps MCYM Constitution

Pathanamthitta: In a significant development, the Malankara Catholic Youth Movement (MCYM) of the Pathanamthitta Eparchy has undergone a crucial amendment to its constitution. The updated constitution was officially handed over by the Eparchy’s head, the esteemed Bishop Samuel Mar Irenios, Metropolitan, to Mr. Ajosh M. Thomas, President of the MCYM committee for the year 2022-23.

This constitutional amendment marks a pivotal moment in the history of the Pathanamthitta Eparchy since the initial MCYM Eparchial Constitution came into effect in 2011. The idea of revising the constitution, with timely and appropriate changes, was brought forward in the Senate, leading to the commencement of the amendment process by the 2021-22 Eparchial Committee. After extensive discussions, meetings, and meticulous planning, the 2022-23 Committee successfully completed all necessary activities to finalize and publish the revised constitution.

The successful amendment of the constitution is the result of relentless efforts and dedication of numerous individuals over the years. The MCYM of Pathanamthitta Eparchy extends its heartfelt gratitude to everyone who tirelessly worked behind the scenes, contributing to this significant achievement. The revised constitution is seen as a testament to the collective hard work and commitment of the community towards fostering a dynamic and evolving youth movement within the church.

The MCYM, an integral part of the Malankara Catholic Church, plays a pivotal role in guiding the youth of the community in spiritual, cultural, and social dimensions. The revised constitution is expected to further strengthen the functioning of the MCYM, enabling it to better serve the youth of the Eparchy and to adapt to the changing times while staying rooted in its core values and traditions.

Inaugural Celebration of Malankara Catholic Mass Center in Galway, Ireland

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Inaugural Celebration of Malankara Catholic Mass Center in Galway, Ireland

Galway, Ireland – The Syro-Malankara Catholic community in Galway, Ireland, joyously celebrated the inauguration of their new Malankara Catholic Mass Center on January 14, 2024. The historic event, which marked the official beginning of the center, was held at St. Patrick’s Church in Galway at 2:00 PM.

Coordinated by Fr. Cheriyan Thazhamon, the Ireland Coordinator of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church, the inauguration was a significant moment for the Indian Christian community in Ireland. Fr. Shinu Varghese Angadiyil and Fr. Jijo Abraham Ashariparambil co-celebrated the Holy Mass, which was attended by the faithful from various parts of Ireland, including Dublin and Cork.

The inauguration ceremony was a vibrant display of faith and culture, reflecting the rich heritage of the Malankara tradition. The community’s participation highlighted the growing presence and unity of the Indian Christian diaspora in Ireland.

St. Patrick’s Church, a prominent and historic location in Galway, provided a fitting venue for the inauguration. The celebration of the Holy Mass in the Malankara Rite, a tradition deeply rooted in the Syriac liturgical heritage, was a momentous occasion, bringing together the Indian Christian community in a display of their faith and traditions.

The new Mass Center is an important addition to the spiritual landscape of Galway, offering a home for the Malankara Catholic faithful in the region. It stands as a testament to the growing diversity within the Irish Catholic Church and the integration of Eastern Catholic traditions into the broader Catholic community.

Rev. Fr. Cheriyan Thazhamon, in his role as the coordinator, expressed his joy and gratitude for the establishment of the center, emphasizing its significance in catering to the spiritual needs of the Malankara Catholic faithful in Ireland. He also highlighted the center’s role in fostering a sense of community and belonging among the faithful.

The event was marked by a sense of unity and solidarity among the attendees, who came together to celebrate not just a new beginning for their community, but also the continued growth and vibrancy of the Malankara Catholic Church in Ireland.

In his message, Fr. Shinu Varghese Angadiyil and Fr. Jijo Abraham Ashariparambil extended their blessings and best wishes to the community, encouraging them to continue nurturing their faith and traditions in their new spiritual home.

The Malankara Catholic Mass Center in Galway is more than just a place of worship; it is a beacon of cultural heritage, bringing together people from different walks of life to celebrate and practice their faith in a welcoming and inclusive environment. The successful inauguration of the center marks a new chapter in the history of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church in Ireland, one that promises growth, unity, and a deepened sense of community.

If you are a Malankarite living in and around Galway, you can attend mass at this location – https://maps.app.goo.gl/1zqaDugF39nUVF9v5

MCYM Pathanamthitta Holds Annual Senate Meeting and Elects New Office Bearers for 2024-2025

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MCYM Pathanamthitta Holds Annual Senate Meeting and Elects New Office Bearers for 2024-2025

Pathanamthitta: The Malankara Catholic Youth Movement (MCYM) of Pathanamthitta Bhadraasanam conducted its annual Senate meeting at St. Antony’s Church, Vadaserikara. The event saw the election of new office bearers for the Bhadraasanasamithi, marking a significant moment for the youth movement.

The meeting was inaugurated by Animator Sister Joan, who hoisted the MCYM flag, setting the stage for the day’s events. Malankara Catholic Youth Movement General Secretary Bibin Abraham, Director Fr. Job Pathalil, and Pathanamthitta Bhadraasana Vicar General Msgr. Varghese Mathew Kalayil addressed the attendees, imparting words of wisdom and encouragement.

The newly elected office bearers for the Bhadraasanasamithi are as follows:

  • Ajosh M Thomas – President
  • Bibin Abraham – General Secretary
  • Lijo Philip – Treasurer
  • Aleena Joseph, Jijo C. Y. – Vice Presidents
  • Jitty K. Abraham, Libin C Mathew, – Secretaries

Ajosh M. Thomas, MCYM Bhadraasana President, presided over the meeting. The event also included the presentation of the annual report, along with farewell and felicitation ceremonies, acknowledging the efforts and contributions of the members.

The event highlighted the vibrancy and dedication of the MCYM in Pathanamthitta, as they continue to engage and empower the youth within the Malankara Catholic Church community.

Bishop Philipos Mar Stephanos Celebrates with South Florida Parishioners in a Festive Gathering

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Bishop Philipos Mar Stephanos Celebrates with South Florida Parishioners in a Festive Gathering

HOLLYWOOD, January 14, 2024: In a heartwarming display of faith and fellowship, Bishop Philipos Mar Stephanos Thottathil graced the St. Mary’s Syro-Malankara Catholic congregation in South Florida with his presence, fostering a day of celebration that highlighted the vibrancy of our community and the rich mosaic of our shared heritage.

The event, which took place at Nativity Church, was initially a routine visit but blossomed into a grand festival that attracted our brothers and sisters from Kerala, the bastion of our faith in South India. Together, Catholics and the Eastern Orthodox faithful participated in a communal worship in the chapel and a cultural festival in the parish hall, reiterating the unity of our church.

“Our faith is a harmonious blend of diverse cultural expressions, and yet we stand united in Christ,” Bishop Philipos, the esteemed primate of our Eparchy of Queen of Peace, remarked. His words echoed through the congregation, reminding us of our dual heritage as Indians in culture and Christians in faith.

Despite the short notice to the 27 families in Florida, the event drew a crowd of about 150 people, a testament to the close-knit nature of our Syro-Malankara families here and abroad. This familial spirit transcended geographical boundaries as attendees arrived from regions as distant as Orlando and New York, bringing together a larger family under the auspices of our cherished Bishop.

The celebration was marked by a Qurbono, where Bishop Philipos donned the traditional head veil adorned with the stars representing Jesus and His apostles, a unique aspect of our Syro-Malankara liturgical tradition. This was followed by a cultural fiesta that showcased the talents of our youth in song, dance, and the ancient martial art of Kalaripayattu, illustrating the dynamism of our living faith.

Archbishop Thomas Wenski lights a nilavilakku, a traditional Indian lamp, during a festival Jan. 14, 2024, with St. Mary’s Syro-Malankara Church. The festival was held at Nativity Church in Hollywood. At left is Bishop Philipos Mar Stephanos Thottathil, head of Syro-Malankara Catholics in the U.S. and Canada.

Archbishop Thomas Wenski of the Archdiocese of Miami participated in the festival, lighting the nilavilakku alongside our clergy, symbolizing the light of Christ that guides us all. His gesture was a poignant reminder of the universality of our Catholic faith, encompassing various rites and traditions.

The event not only celebrated our spiritual and cultural roots but also served as an ecumenical bridge, occurring just before the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity. It was a moment of solidarity, illustrating how our small yet spirited community contributes to the tapestry of the universal Church.

The festival concluded with a feast that included traditional Kerala cuisine, further reinforcing our connections to the homeland. The laughter and camaraderie that filled the parish hall were emblematic of the joy that our faith brings to our lives.

As we move forward, the success of this gathering has inspired us to make it an annual tradition, allowing us to come together to celebrate our faith, culture, and community. It is our sincere hope that such events continue to strengthen the bonds of our Syro-Malankara family here in South Florida and across the diaspora.

Sister C. Leticia SIC (76) called to eternal abode

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Sister C. Leticia SIC (76) called to eternal abode

Sister C. Letticia SIC (76), a member of the Bathany Sisters of the Imitation of Christ Congregation and the Thiruvananthapuram Province, passed away on 13.01.2024. Her mortal remains will be brought to the Provincial House at Nalanchira at 5 pm on Monday, 15.01.2024. The funeral services will be held at the Nalanchira Seminary on Tuesday, 16.01.2024 at 10 am. May her soul rest in eternal peace.

Reverend Fr. John Varghese Palanilkunnathil Celebrates 25 Years of Priestly Service

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Reverend Fr. John Varghese Palanilkunnathil Celebrates 25 Years of Priestly Service

Reverend Father John Varghese Palanilkunnathil, marks a significant milestone in his spiritual journey. The community celebrated his 25 years of devoted service since his ordination on February 11, 1999. Born on May 18, 1972, Fr. John Varghese has become a pillar of strength and guidance for his congregation.

A Journey of Faith and Service: Fr. John Varghese’s commitment to his calling has seen him serve in various capacities within the church and the wider community. He has been closely associated with St. Behnan’s Malankara Syrian Catholic Church in Kodumon, a part of the Ecclesiastical district of Adoor in the Major Archdiocese of Trivandrum. Additionally, he served as the former vicar at St. Mary’s Malankara Syrian Catholic Church in Avaneeswaram.

A Distinguished Educator: Apart from his religious duties, Fr. John Varghese has made significant contributions to education. Holding a Post Graduate Degree in Public Administration and Philosophy, as well as B.Ed and M.Phil degrees, he assumed the role of Bursar at Mar Baselios College of Engineering and Technology on March 19, 2022. His experience as a teacher and administrator in various educational institutions under the Major Archdiocese has been invaluable.

Global Footprint: Fr. John Varghese’s influence extends beyond local boundaries. He has traveled extensively across India and abroad, engaging in various missions that underscore his commitment to the church and its teachings.

A Special Day of Celebration: The Silver Jubilee of his priesthood was commemorated in a special ceremony at Kodumon Church. His Eminence Cardinal Baselios Cleemis Catholicos shared his blessings with Fr. John Varghese, recognizing his 25 years of faithful service. Reverend Irenios Thirumeni also participated and conveyed greetings. The day was marked with joy and gratitude by the congregation and community members alike.

Fr. John Varghese celebrates his feast day on June 24, coinciding with the commemoration of the nativity of St. John the Baptist, the patron saint after whom he is named.

As Fr. John Varghese continues his journey, his life of service remains an inspiration to many within and beyond the ecclesiastical community. His dedication to faith, education, and the upliftment of the community will be remembered and celebrated for many years to come.

Kerala Catholic Students League holds 109th annual conference and state festival

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Kerala Catholic Students League holds 109th annual conference and state festival

The 109th annual conference and state festival of the Kerala Catholic Students League (KCSL) was held at the Bathany Central School in Nangyarkulangara under the auspices of the Mavelikara Bhadrashan. The event was organized by the KCSL State Committee and the Mavelikara Bhadrashan, which is one of the 14 regional units of the KCSL in Kerala.

The inaugural conference was preceded by a colorful rally that started from the Bathany Girls High School and ended at the Bathan yCentral School. Father Joseph Padippura, the director of the Mavelikara Bhadrashan, welcomed the conference, which was inaugurated by HE Rt. Rev. Dr. Joshua Mar Ignathios, the president of the Mavelikara Bhadrashan and the chairman of the KCBC Education – KCSL Commission. He urged everyone to live a life of faith, study and service, which is the motto of the KCSL.

The conference, chaired by Rose Shibu, the state chairperson of the KCSL, was attended by renowned cine artist Alice Christy as the chief guest. Rev. Father Antony Arackal, the secretary of the KCBC Education Commission, Baby Thadaus Cruz, the state president of the KCSL, Varghese K Samuel, the president of the Bhadrashan, and others spoke. Manoj Chacko, the state general organizer of the KCSL, thanked the conference.

The cultural festival, which will be attended by more than a thousand children from the zones from Parassala to Kasaragod, will be held on Saturday, January 13, 2024. The state festival of the 109th KCSL will conclude with the award ceremony.

The KCSL is the world’s first Catholic students’ organization, founded in 1915 by a group of Malayalee students at St. Joseph’s College, Trichinappally, Tamilnadu. The KCSL aims to provide holistic formation to Catholic students in schools, based on the motto of faith, study and service. The KCSL operates under the patronage of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI) and the Kerala Catholic Bishops’ Council (KCBC). The KCSL conducts various activities such as camps, seminars, workshops, competitions, rallies, social service projects, etc. for the spiritual, intellectual, cultural and social development of its members.

Mar Raphael Thattil becomes the fourth head of Syro-Malabar Church

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Mar Raphael Thattil becomes the fourth head of Syro-Malabar Church

Kochi: In a historic and grand ceremony held at Mount St Thomas in Kakkanad on Thursday, January 11, 2024, Mar Raphael Thattil, the Bishop of Shamshabad, was officially installed as the Major Archbishop of the Syro-Malabar Church. This significant event marks a new era for one of the largest Eastern Catholic Churches globally.

The installation ceremony was led by Mar Sebastian Vaniyapurackal, the Curia Bishop of the Syro-Malabar Church. It was attended by a distinguished gathering of archbishops, bishops, priests, Vatican representatives, and other dignitaries from various Catholic Churches.

A pivotal moment of the ceremony was the reading of a letter from Pope Francis, which confirmed Mar Raphael Thattil’s canonical election as the Major Archbishop. The Pope’s letter also extended apostolic blessings and prayers to the new leader and the faithful of the Syro-Malabar Church.

At the age of 67, Mar Raphael Thattil becomes the fourth Major Archbishop of the Syro-Malabar Church, succeeding Cardinal Mar George Alencherry following his resignation. Notably, Mar Raphael Thattil is the first Major Archbishop elected from outside Kerala, reflecting the growing diversity of the Church.

Born in Thrissur, Mar Raphael Thattil’s ecclesiastical journey began with his ordination in 1980. He has since served in various roles within the Thrissur Archdiocese, including his appointment as Auxiliary Bishop in 2010 and later as the first Bishop of the Syro-Malabar Catholic Eparchy of Shamshabad in 2017.

In his new role, Mar Raphael Thattil will steer the Syro-Malabar Church, a community deeply rooted in the traditions brought by St Thomas the Apostle to India in the first century. The Church is known for its unique East Syrian liturgy, customs, and canon law.

The enthronement ceremony was a blend of solemnity and cultural richness, live-streamed for thousands of global Syro-Malabar Catholics. It featured prayers, hymns, and cultural programs, symbolizing the unity and diversity of the Church.

During the enthronement speeches, Bishop Cleemis of the Syro-Malankara Church emphasized the historical significance of the event. He conveyed the prayers and greetings of the Kerala churches and the Malankara Church. He highlighted Mar Raphael Thattil’s role as the shepherd of the large and historic Syro-Malabar Church, expressing confidence in its prosperous future under his leadership.

Bishop Mar Cleemis, in his heartfelt message, said, “We are witnessing history. As Mar Thomas the Apostle’s legacy continues, Mar Raphael Thattil is enthroned as the father and head of the Syro-Malabar Church. I convey the prayers and greetings of the churches in Kerala and the Malankara Church. Mar Joseph Pamplany, in his sermon, has already imparted wisdom beautifully. In your installation as bishop, you had sought my presence. At that time you asked for the ‘arthavakyam’ – to be broken and given. Now, as the shepherd of this historic church, your journey will be blessed with the responsibility of nurturing its relationships and steering its future.”

Responding to Bishop Cleemis, Mar Raphael Thattil expressed his gratitude: “Dear Bishop Cleemis, your presence and words have always been a source of strength for us. Your presence today, despite difficulties, shows the close bond between our churches. I promise that the Syro-Malabar Church, the Malankara Church, and the Latin Church will stand united like three flowers of one plant. Your consistent thoughtfulness and support for us are deeply appreciated and strengthen us.”

Mar Raphael Thattil’s installation as the new Major Archbishop is a momentous event, heralding a period of continuity and growth for the Syro-Malabar Church, as it upholds its rich traditions while adapting to contemporary challenges. The Church looks forward to his guidance in fostering unity among the various Catholic rites in India and beyond.

Syro-Malabar Church elects new Major Archbishop, Bishop Raphael Thattil of Shamshabad, Telangana

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Syro-Malabar Church elects new Major Archbishop, Bishop Raphael Thattil of Shamshabad, Telangana

Kochi, India – The Syro-Malabar Catholic Church, one of the 23 Eastern Catholic Churches in full communion with Rome, has elected a new Major Archbishop to lead the Church and the Archdiocese of Ernakulam-Angamaly. Bishop Raphael Thattil of Shamshabad, Telangana, was chosen by the Holy Synod of the Syro-Malabar Church on January 9, 2024, to succeed Cardinal George Alencherry, who resigned on December 7, 2023. The election was announced simultaneously at the Vatican and the Major Archiepiscopal Curia at Mount St. Thomas in Kakkanad on January 10, 2024. The installation of the new Major Archbishop will be held at 2.30 pm on Thursday, 11 January 2024, at the Major Archiepiscopal Curia of the Syro-Malabar Church, Mount St. Thomas, Kakkanad.

Bishop Thattil, 67, is the fourth Major Archbishop of the Syro-Malabar Church, which traces its origins to the missions of Thomas the Apostle in the 1st century. The Church has more than 4.6 million members worldwide, mostly in Kerala, India, and uses the East Syriac Rite liturgy. The Major Archbishop is the head and father of the Church and the president of the Major Archiepiscopal Synod, which is the supreme authority of the Church. The Major Archbishop also has the title of Metropolitan of Ernakulam-Angamaly, the largest archdiocese of the Church.

Bishop Thattil was born on April 21, 1956, in Thrissur, Kerala, to Ouseph and Thresia. He completed his primary education at St. Thomas College High School, Thrissur, and joined St. Mary’s Minor Seminary, Thope, in 1971. He completed his ecclesiastical studies at St. Thomas Apostolic Seminary, Vadavathoor, and was ordained a priest by Bishop Joseph Kundukulam on December 21, 1980. He did his higher studies in Rome and Canada, and obtained a doctorate in Oriental Canon Law. He served as a parish priest, a seminary rector, a diocesan chancellor, and a synodal secretary. He was appointed as an auxiliary bishop of Thrissur and a titular bishop of Buruni on January 15, 2010. He was consecrated as a bishop on April 10, 2010, by Archbishop Andrews Thazhath. In 2014, he was appointed as the apostolic visitor for the Syro-Malabar faithful residing outside the proper territory of the Church. In 2017, he was named as the first bishop of the Eparchy of Shamshabad, which covers the Syro-Malabar Catholics in most parts of India outside Kerala. In 2020, he was given the title of Suffragan Metropolitan by Cardinal Alencherry.

Cardinal Alencherry, 76, was the third Major Archbishop of the Syro-Malabar Church, and the first cardinal of the Church. He was elected by the Holy Synod on February 26, 2011, and was installed on March 19, 2011. He was created a cardinal by Pope Benedict XVI on February 18, 2012. He served the Church with dedication and zeal, and contributed to the growth and development of the Church in India and abroad. He was also a member of various Vatican dicasteries and a participant in the 2013 and 2018 papal conclaves. He resigned from his office on December 7, 2023, after reaching the age limit of 75. He will continue to serve as a cardinal and a member of the College of Cardinals.

The election of Bishop Thattil as the new Major Archbishop was welcomed by the clergy, religious, and laity of the Syro-Malabar Church, as well as by other Christian leaders.

His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Yoohanon Mar Theodosius, the Bishop of Muvattupuzha & Apostolic Visitator to Europe for the Syro Malankara Church, visited Bishop Thattil on January 10, 2024, and congratulated him on his appointment. The Syro-Malankara Catholic Church, like the Syro Malabar Church is an Eastern Catholic Church in India, which uses the West Syriac Rite liturgy and has about 458,000 members. The Church was formed in 1930 as a result of the reunion movement led by Archbishop Geevarghese Ivanios, who entered into communion with the Catholic Church.

The Syro-Malabar Church is a sign of the unity and diversity of the Catholic Church, which embraces the various liturgical, theological, and spiritual traditions of the East and the West. The Church is also a testimony to the faith and vitality of the Saint Thomas Christians, who have preserved and enriched their ancient heritage for more than 2,000 years. The Church invites everyone to join them in their prayers and celebrations for the new Major Archbishop, and to discover the beauty and richness of the Syro-Malabar Rite.

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