KCBC Housing Project Inaugurated by Cardinal Cleemis

Sulthan Bathery – His Eminent Beatitude Cardinal Moran Mor Baselios Cleemis Catholicos, President of the Kerala Catholic Bishops’ Council (KCBC), addressed the pressing need for timely assistance to disaster victims, emphasising the Church’s unwavering commitment to humanitarian efforts. The inauguration of KCBC’s housing project for disaster-affected families and the key handover for homes constructed as part of the “Land for All, Homes for All” initiative of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church’s Bathery Diocese were key highlights of the event.

Cardinal Cleemis lamented the inaction of those expected to provide immediate aid during disasters such as the landslides in Mundakkai and Chooralmala. He noted the technical and logistical challenges faced in delivering effective assistance, adding that the Church has pledged to construct homes for 100 families, transcending barriers of caste and creed.

An Important Housing Initiative

The project, estimated at a cost of ₹10 crore, is a monumental effort to restore dignity and security to affected families. Cardinal Cleemis praised the active cooperation of the Bathery Diocese with KCBC’s call to action, highlighting the Diocese’s deep sense of responsibility and commitment to humanitarian work. “The completion of over 75 homes in various parts of the Diocese is no small feat,” he remarked.

The event was presided over by His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Joseph Mor Thomas, Bishop of Bathery, and was attended by distinguished speakers, including:

• I.C. Balakrishnan, MLA
• Rev. Fr. Jacob Mavunkal, Executive Director of KSSF
• Rev. Fr. George Vettikattil
• Rev. Fr. Abraham Thalothil
• Rev. Fr. David Alinkal
• Rev. Fr. John Charuvila
• Elizabeth George and Eby Abraham
• Rev. Fr. James Maleparambil

KCBC’s Rehabilitation Housing Project in Mananthavady

In a similar vein, the KCBC launched another rehabilitation housing initiative in Mananthavady for families who lost their homes in landslide disasters. The project was inaugurated by Cardinal Moran Mor Baselios Cleemis Catholicos at Thomattuchal, where he laid the foundation stone for the first home.

Speaking at the occasion, Cardinal Cleemis reflected on the profound Christian call to embrace and support those who have lost everything. “When we extend a hand of care to disaster victims, we reflect the image of God in humanity,” he said.

The inaugural ceremony was presided over by His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Jose Porunnedom, Bishop of Mananthavady. Rev. Fr. Jacob Mavunkal, Secretary of the Justice, Peace and Development Commission, elaborated on the rehabilitation project.

Notable Attendees

The event in Mananthavady witnessed participation from numerous dignitaries, including:

• His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Joseph Mor Thomas, Bishop of Bathery
• I.C. Balakrishnan and T. Siddique, MLAs
• Rev. Fr. Jinoj Palathadathil
• Rev. Fr. Jose Kocharackal
• Rev. Fr. Sebastian Palamparambil
• Salu Abraham Mecheri

Both these initiatives reflect the unwavering dedication of the KCBC and the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church to providing holistic support to disaster victims, fostering hope and healing within affected communities.