On 12 October, the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church community in Rome gathered for a momentous occasion: the inauguration of the new academic year and the beginning of the “Year of the Word,” a celebration dedicated to deepening the connection with the Holy Scriptures as part of the Church’s centenary of reunification. Held at Santi Martiri di Selva Candida Church, the event was presided over by His Eminent Beatitude Moran Mor Baselios Cleemis Catholicos, Major Archbishop-Catholicos of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church.
A Sacred Beginning
The event commenced with a solemn Holy Qurbono and the installation of the Holy Scriptures, signifying the start of a year focused on spiritual and academic growth. His Eminent Beatitude delivered the inaugural address, inspiring attendees to uphold the Church’s legacy of devotion to the Word of God and encouraging them to nurture their faith and intellectual pursuits during this special year. He emphasized that the heritage passed down through Blessed Mar Ivanios is sustained by grace, urging those present to deepen their commitment to the teachings of Christ as they journey through their studies.
Following the Qurbono, His Eminence extended a warm welcome to the newcomers—priests, sisters, and seminarians—who arrived in Rome for advanced theological studies. Each received an Italian-language Bible, symbolizing their integration into the faith community and their shared dedication to the mission of the Church.
A Congratulatory Note
This year’s gathering was also a proud moment for the community, celebrating the recent achievement of Rev. Fr. Dominic Moozhikkara OIC, who was awarded a Licentiate in Theology from the Pontifical Lateran University in Rome. Fr. Dominic’s thesis, titled The Young Church and Mission on Social Media Platforms: A Study Based on Catholic Youth in Kerala, explores the role of social media in the modern Church, particularly among Catholic youth in Kerala. His insights underscore the relevance of digital engagement in spreading the message of faith to younger generations—a timely study that resonates with the Church’s mission of evangelization.
Program Highlights and Community Leadership
Organized by “Roma Malankara,” the koinonia of Syro-Malankara priests, religious, and seminarians in Rome, the event embodied the spirit of unity within the community. The opening welcome was delivered by Fr. Dominic Moozhikkara OIC, President of Roma Malankara, followed by a heartfelt vote of thanks from Rev. Fr. Elias Panthappillil, the community’s Treasurer. The ceremony also included an open floor, allowing community members to share their reflections and aspirations for the upcoming year, further fostering a sense of collective purpose and solidarity.
In attendance were notable figures, including Msgr. Kuriakose Cherupuzhathottathil, Fr. Benedict Perumuttath, and Sr. Shanthi SIC, who joined the 46-member community of Syro-Malankara priests, sisters, and students in Rome.
Looking Ahead with Faith and Fellowship
The inauguration concluded with an agape, a fellowship meal symbolizing the unity and shared mission of the community. His Eminent Beatitude’s presence and words provided a spiritual foundation for the year ahead, reaffirming the Church’s commitment to faith, study, and service. As the Syro-Malankara community in Rome embarks on this academic journey, they carry with them a deepened devotion to the Word, strengthened by the collective support of their leaders and peers.
This event not only marks a new chapter for the Roma Malankara community but also reflects the enduring vision of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church—a vision rooted in faith, learning, and the universal call to serve.
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