His Beatitude Cardinal Cleemis Inspires Renewal and Vigilance During Pastoral Visit to St. Norbert Priory, Mananthavady

Mananthavady – 1 June 2025

The serene hills of Mananthavady witnessed a profound spiritual encounter as His Beatitude Moran Mor Baselios Cardinal Cleemis Catholicos, Major Archbishop-Catholicos of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church, made a deeply significant two-day pastoral visit to St. Norbert Priory on May 31 and June 1, 2025. This visit unfolded as a wellspring of spiritual reflection, fraternal warmth, and renewed dedication to religious life among the Norbertine community.

His Beatitude’s arrival, received with heartfelt welcome by Rev. Fr. Francis Allumpuram, symbolised not just a visit but the arrival of a spiritual father whose presence infused the priory with fresh zeal and hope.

Norbertine Community Called to Stand Firm as Guardians of the Church

In a stirring and solemn exhortation, Cardinal Cleemis summoned the Norbertine fathers and brothers to rise as a “Norbertine army to protect the Church.” His words rang with urgency and tenderness, addressing the present-day challenges faced by religious communities—challenges that demand unyielding faith, courage, and fidelity.

He reminded all present that this spiritual strength must flow from the Holy Eucharist, the true source and summit of their life. The Eucharist, he declared, is the wellspring of resilience, the flame that fuels the community’s perseverance in mission and witness.

Far from a call to mere external vigilance, the Cardinal’s charge was an invitation to renewal in prayer, unity, and faithfulness—spiritual weapons destined to safeguard the Church’s mission and sacred traditions.

Moments of Prayerful Encounter and Deepened Reflection

The pastoral visit was marked not only by official addresses but also by moments of intimate prayer and dialogue. His Beatitude engaged with the Norbertine community in personal conversation and shared prayer, offering encouragement and spiritual nourishment.

These interactions became a catalyst for introspection and communal renewal, urging the fathers and brothers to examine their lives and recommit to their vocation with greater passion and humility.

Renewed Zeal to Live the Norbertine Charism

As the visit drew to a close, Fr. Vigil Kizhakkarakkattu conveyed profound gratitude on behalf of the community. He thanked His Beatitude for the spiritual strength and renewed sense of mission instilled during the visit.

Fr. Vigil reaffirmed the community’s resolve to live out their charism with unwavering dedication, meeting the challenges of today’s Church with courage, prayer, and fidelity.

Enduring Impact: Strengthening the Church’s Spiritual Heritage

This pastoral encounter stands as a memorable moment of unity and spiritual reinforcement for the Norbertine fathers and brothers. His Beatitude’s presence fortified their commitment to serve the Church and its faithful—not merely as contemplatives, but as active guardians of the spiritual heritage entrusted to them.

For the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church, the visit underscores the essential role of religious communities in bearing witness to Christ’s presence in the world, especially in times marked by change and uncertainty.

May the Norbertines continue to flourish in holiness and zeal, strengthened by this blessing and inspired to be signs of God’s abiding love.

The Syro-Malankara Catholic faithful unite in prayerful support for the Norbertine community, rejoicing in this renewed spirit of service and faithfulness.