Archbishop Dr. George Panamthundil Elevated as Apostolic Nuncio to Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan

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Archbishop Dr. George Panamthundil Elevated as Apostolic Nuncio to Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan

His Holiness Pope Francis has bestowed the significant responsibility of Apostolic Nuncio for Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan upon Msgr. Dr. George Panamthundil from the Major Archdiocese of Trivandrum in the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church. This appointment, dated 16 June 2023, also marks his elevation to the esteemed position of Archbishop of the titular see of Floriana. Notably, he is the first priest from the Syro Malankara Catholic Church to assume the role of Nuncio.

The ordination ceremony took place on 19 August 2023 at St. Mary’s Major Archieparchial Cathedral, Pattom, Trivandrum, where His Beatitude Baselios Cardinal Cleemis, Major Archbishop-Catholicos of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church, ordained him Remban. The formal consecration to Archbishop was conducted by His Eminence Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Secretary of State (Holy See), on 9 September 2023 in Rome, with His Beatitude Baselios Cardinal Cleemis as the co-consecrator. Born on 20 May 1972 to Dr. P.V. George and Marykutty George in Trivandrum, Kerala, Archbishop Panamthundil was ordained a priest on 18th February 1998 for the Archdiocese of Trivandrum.

His journey in the diplomatic service of the Holy See commenced in 2005, marked by roles at various Apostolic Nunciatures across the globe. Notably, he holds a Doctorate in Canon Law from the Pontifical Oriental Institute, Rome, and pursued studies at the Pontifical Ecclesiastical Academy (Rome).

Key Points:

  • Diplomatic Service: Archbishop Panamthundil entered the Diplomatic Service of the Holy See in 2005.
  • Language Proficiency: Fluent in French, English, Italian, Portuguese, Spanish, and Malayalam.
  • Historical Appointment: He is the first Indian appointed as the Apostolic Nuncio to Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan.

In a region where the Catholic Church is a minority, facing challenges like religious restrictions, clergy shortages, and social discrimination, Archbishop Panamthundil’s appointment holds special significance. According to the 2021 census, Kazakhstan has about 125,000 Catholics, Kyrgyzstan 500, and Tajikistan 300. Most are descendants of Europeans exiled to Central Asia during the Soviet regime or recent immigrants.

Insight into the Region:

  • Kazakhstan: 125,000 Catholics (less than 1% of the population)
  • Kyrgyzstan: 500 Catholics (0.01% of the population)
  • Tajikistan: 300 Catholics (0.004% of the population)

The newly formed regional bishops’ conference for Central Asia, covering Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan, aims to foster unity and growth among Catholic communities. Archbishop Tomash Peta, the Metropolitan Archbishop of Astana, Kazakhstan, leads the conference, which is also a member of the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences (FABC), promoting solidarity and evangelization among Asian churches.

This appointment is a testament to the Holy See’s commitment to strengthening the presence of the Catholic Church in regions where it is a minority, fostering unity, and addressing unique challenges.

Sister Patrice D.M. passed away

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Sister Patrice D.M. passed away

Sister Patrice D.M., a member of the St. Joseph’s Province of the Daughters of Mary Congregation in Martandam, passed away. She was 95 years old. She was the third daughter of the late Devassy and Mariakutty from the Nellimattam Idavaka in the Kothamangalam Rupatha. She served as a missionary, nurse, and superior in places like Panachamoodu, Pongumoodu, Thanipadi, Udayarkuppam, Anjal, Ilayankanni, Gudalloor, Trichy, Azhakiyamandapam, Erumamunda, Idayankulam, Martandam.

The funeral service was held on September 1, 2023 at the Mother House of the Daughters of Mary Congregation in Martandam under the leadership of His Grace Vincent Mar Paulos, the Metropolitan of the Martandam Diocese.

Meeting of the Ecumenism & Dialogue Commission held

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Meeting of the Ecumenism & Dialogue Commission held

The meeting of the Ecumenism & Dialogue Commission of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church was held on August 30, 2023, at the Shantiniketan in Thiruvalla. The meeting was inaugurated by His Beatitude Baselios Cardinal Cleemis Catholicos, the head and father of the church. The chairman of the commission, His Grace Joshua Mar Ignatius Metropolitan, presided over the meeting. The meeting reviewed in detail the potential for cooperation with other Christian churches.

Rev. Dr. Eldo Puthenkandathil Assumes Office as Corepiscopa

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Rev. Dr. Eldo Puthenkandathil Assumes Office as Corepiscopa

Rev. Dr. Eldo Puthenkandathil, the vicar general of the Puttur Diocese, was ordained as a corepiscopa on August 28, 2023, at the Puttur diocesan church. The ordination was presided over by Mor Baselios Cardinal Cleemis Catholicos, the head and father of the Malankara Catholic Church.

His Grace Geevarghese Mar Makarios Metropolitan, the diocesan bishop of Puttur, and His Grace Joseph Mar Thomas Metropolitan, the diocesan bishop of Bathery, were the co-consecrators.

The ordination was attended by a large gathering of priests, nuns, and lay people.

In his homily, Cardinal Cleemis urged Rev. Dr. Puthenkandathil to be a faithful shepherd to the people of God. He also called on him to be a servant leader and to work for the unity of the church.

Rev. Dr. Puthenkandathil is the first corepiscopa from the Puttur Diocese. He is a graduate of the Pontifical Seminary of Kottayam and holds a doctorate in canon law from the Catholic University of America. He is also a member of the Kerala Catholic Bishops’ Council.

His ordination as a corepiscopa is a significant event for the Puttur Diocese and the Malankara Catholic Church. It is a recognition of his leadership and his contributions to the church.

40th death anniversary of Monsignor Joseph Kuzhinjalil commemorated

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40th death anniversary of Monsignor Joseph Kuzhinjalil commemorated

The 40th death anniversary of Monsignor Joseph Kuzhinjalil, the founder of the Sisters of Mary, was commemorated at the Marthandam Christuraj Cathedral on August 23, 2023.

On August 23, at 9:30 am, a Holy Mass was celebrated under the leadership of His Beatitude Baselios Cardinal Cleemis Catholicos, the head and father of the Malankara Syrian Catholic Church, in the presence of other bishops and priests. After the Holy Mass, a memorial service was held, followed by a prayer service at the tomb.

Sisters of Mary, representatives of other religious congregations, and lay people attended the event.

Born in Kuzhinjalil Mala near Tirurangadi in Malappuram district in 1932, Monsignor Kuzhinjalil was ordained a priest in 1957. He served as the Metropolitan Archbishop of Kottayam from 1962 to 2012.

A gifted orator, Monsignor Kuzhinjalil authored numerous books and essays on faith and life. His sermons drew large crowds.

Fr. Joshua Thazhathethil (85) passes away

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Fr. Joshua Thazhathethil (85) passes away

Fr. Joshua Thazhathethil, a priest of the Patna Archdiocese, passed away on August 12, 2023 due to a heart attack in the morning. He is on his way to his heavenly reward. His burial was held on August 13, Sunday at 2 pm at the Mother Church of Mylapra Sacred Heart Syro Malankara Catholic Church. The funeral services were led by the head and father of the Church, Moran Mor Baselios Cardinal Cleemis Catholicos. Samuel Mar Irenios, the Archbishop of Patna, and other priests of the Church were co-celebrants.

“Karthavyam” Launched

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“Karthavyam” Launched

The “Karthavyam” rehabilitation program was launched by His Grace Archbishop Mar Gregorios at the Snehaveedu in Thiruvananthapuram on Sunday, August 13, 2023, after the Holy Mass. Eight residents of Snehaveedu were selected as beneficiaries of the program in the first phase.

Karthavyam is a new initiative of Snehaveedu in the field of mental health rehabilitation. It is a continuation of the Karmapatham program that has been going on in the field of rehabilitation. The unique feature of this program is that the residents of Snehaveedu who are recovering their mental health will be accommodated in satellite homes and made employees at various levels.

M.C.A. Bathery Diocese Half-Yearly Assembly Held

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M.C.A. Bathery Diocese Half-Yearly Assembly Held

The first half-yearly assembly of the Malankara Catholic Association (M.C.A.) of the Bathery Diocese for the year 2023 was held on August 12, 2023, at St. George’s Church, Eengappuzha. The assembly was hosted by the Kozhikode region of the diocese.

His Grace Dr. Joseph Mar Thomas Metropolitan, the diocesan bishop of Bathery, inaugurated the assembly. Representatives from all the regions of the diocese attended the assembly and presented reports on their activities. The assembly was presided over by Mr. Roy Kayalat, the diocesan M.C.A. president.

The assembly also featured the presentation of prizes to the winners of the Mar Ivanios Essay Writing Competition, a felicitation ceremony for the clergy, and discussions on M.C.A. activities.

The arrangements for the assembly were led by Protopresbyter Fr. Thomas Mannithorottam, the diocesan M.C.A. advisor, and Mr. Sibi Manakkathoottam, the regional M.C.A. president.

Malankara Catholic Youth Movement Delegation Returns Inspired from WYD 2023

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Malankara Catholic Youth Movement Delegation Returns Inspired from WYD 2023

The Malankara Catholic Youth Movement (MCYM) North American delegation has returned, brimming with renewed enthusiasm and deep inspiration following their participation in World Youth Day (WYD) 2023. This remarkable pilgrimage unfolded in the picturesque city of Lisbon, Portugal, from August 1 to 6, uniting young Catholics from across the globe for a spiritually enriching and community-building experience.

Under the able guidance of Rev. Fr. Jerry Mathew and Rev. Fr. Babu Madathilparambil, the MCYMNA delegation comprised six dedicated and spirited young individuals: Anisha John, Samson Zachariah, Stacy Zachariah, Joel Abraham, Mariel Sajan, and Kripa Simon.

Additionally, Rev. Fr. Michael Edathil, Sr. Jocelyn Edathil, Binu Abraham, Matt and Linda Kuriakose, and Tania Joseph joined this enlightening journey. Their days were filled with engaging events, including Masses, prayer sessions, workshops, and thought-provoking discussions, all centered around this year’s profound theme, “Mary arose and went with haste» (Lk 1:39).”

The MCYM delegation actively participated in a diverse range of activities aimed at deepening their faith, fostering intercultural connections, and addressing contemporary issues faced by young Catholics. They engaged in insightful dialogues on subjects like social justice, environmental responsibility, and the pivotal role of youth in fulfilling the Church’s mission.

A highlight of this pilgrimage was the presence of His Holiness, Pope Francis, whose words of encouragement and hope resonated deeply with the attendees. The MCYM delegation was fortunate to be among the thousands who gathered to hear his message, emphasizing the significance of embracing one’s faith and taking an active role in shaping a more just and compassionate world.

Upon their return, the MCYM delegation expressed heartfelt gratitude for this unforgettable experience. They are determined to implement the valuable insights gained from WYD 2023 within their local communities. Unity, empathy, and a renewed commitment to their faith are the cornerstones of their mission as they endeavor to create a brighter future.

MCYM’s participation in WYD 2023 not only enriched the lives of the delegates but also reinvigorated the entire Eparchy with a renewed sense of purpose. These young ambassadors of faith and positive change are now prepared to inspire others with their profound experiences and newfound wisdom.

The Eparchy proudly commends the MCYM delegation for their active engagement in WYD 2023 and eagerly anticipates the undoubtedly positive impact they will make as they translate their experiences into action within the local context.

Cardinal Cleemis Baava Visits Oommen Chandy’s Grave

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Cardinal Cleemis Baava Visits Oommen Chandy’s Grave

Cardinal Cleemis Baava, the head of the Malankara Catholic Church, visited the grave of former Chief Minister Oommen Chandy.

The Cardinal offered prayers for Chandy’s soul and for the peace of his family. He also spoke about Chandy’s legacy as a public servant and a devout Catholic.

“Oommen Chandy was a man of the people,” the Cardinal said. “He was always there for those in need, and he worked tirelessly to improve the lives of all Keralites. He was also a strong supporter of the Catholic Church, and he will be remembered for his dedication to our faith.”

After visiting Oommen Chandy’s grave, the Cardinal traveled to the St. George Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church in Puthuppalli, a major pilgrimage destination for Christians in Kerala. He led a special incense prayer service at the church.

The Cardinal’s visit to Chandy’s grave was a gesture of respect and remembrance for a man who was deeply respected by the people of Kerala.

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