Monsignor Shaji Mathews Vazhayil Assumes Role as Vicar General of St. Ephrem Khadki-Pune Eparchy

PUNE, India – The Syro Malankara Catholic Church is pleased to announce that Rt. Rev. Monsignor Shaji Mathews Vazhayil has assumed the role of Vicar General of the Eparchy of St. Ephrem Khadki-Pune Region. The ordination ceremony, held on 14th May 2024, marks a milestone in the ecclesiastical journey of Monsignor Shaji Mathews.

Ordination and Previous Roles

Monsignor Shaji Mathews Vazhayil was previously the parish priest of St. Mary’s Syro Malankara Catholic Church in Doha, Qatar. In addition, he served as the Chief Executive Officer of the Pushpagiri Medical Society in Thiruvalla, demonstrating a profound commitment to both pastoral care and healthcare administration.

Academic Contributions

In 2001, Monsignor Shaji Mathews Vazhayil earned his doctorate from the Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome. His thesis, “The Relationship Between Pneumatology and Ecclesiology in the Teachings of Pope Paul VI,” reflects his deep engagement with theological scholarship.

Celebration of Bishop Mathews Mar Pachomios’ Feast

Coinciding with Monsignor Shaji Mathews Vazhayil’s ordination, the feast of Bishop Mathews Mar Pachomios of the Eparchy of St. Ephrem Pune Khadki region was celebrated. Named after Saint Pachomius the Great, Bishop Pachomios is revered for his spiritual leadership and dedication to the Church.

Saint Pachomius the Great: A Brief History

Saint Pachomius the Great, also known as the founder of Christian cenobitic monasticism, was born in 292 AD in Thebes, Egypt. After a brief stint in the Roman army, Pachomius embraced Christianity and dedicated his life to God. He established the first monastic community in the Egyptian desert, where monks lived together under a common rule, sharing work and prayer. His monastic rule influenced numerous monastic traditions and continues to be a cornerstone of Christian monastic life.

Conclusion

The ordination of Monsignor Shaji Mathews Vazhayil as Vicar General is an important occasion for the Syro Malankara Catholic Church, signifying a new chapter of leadership and spiritual guidance for the Eparchy of Pune-Khadki. The concurrent celebration of Bishop Mathews Mar Pachomios’ feast adds to the joy and spiritual richness of the day, honouring the legacy of a revered saint and the promise of new leadership.