His Excellency Bishop Samuel Mor Irenios Visits Mechernich, Honouring the Legacy of Mother Marie Therese and Strengthening International Bonds

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His Excellency Bishop Samuel Mor Irenios Visits Mechernich, Honouring the Legacy of Mother Marie Therese and Strengthening International Bonds

Mechernich, Germany – 27 May 2025

The paths of faith often traverse continents, drawing together distant lands and kindred spirits in the unending quest for holiness and unity. Such a moment was witnessed in Mechernich, Germany, when His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Samuel Mor Irenios, Bishop of the Syro Malankara Catholic Eparchy of Pathanamthitta in Kerala, India, journeyed to the motherhouse of the Ordo Communionis in Christo, a spiritual community founded in 1984 by the venerable Mother Marie Therese.

Coming directly from the historic occasion of the solemn Inauguration Mass of Pope Leo XIV in Rome—where Bishop Mor Irenios offered his respectful greetings and blessings to the newly elected Pontiff—this pastoral visit bore witness to the profound connections weaving the Syro Malankara Church into the wider fabric of the universal Church and its spiritual families.

The Ordo Communionis in Christo, rooted deeply in the prayerful vision of Mother Marie Therese, represents a shining example of Christian dedication and communal life. Bishop Mor Irenios honoured her memory as that of a “Saint of our time,” recognising the enduring spiritual legacy that continues to inspire countless souls across borders.

At the heart of this visit was more than ceremony; it was a moment of spiritual communion, bridging Kerala’s lively Syro Malankara tradition with the contemplative and missionary zeal of the Communio in Christo community. The Bishop’s presence underscored the growing collaboration and mutual encouragement between the Indian Church and this international spiritual family.

His Eminence was warmly welcomed by Rev. Fr. Jaison Thazhathil, the current General Superior of the Ordo Communionis in Christo, himself a son of the Pathanamthitta Eparchy. This meeting of shepherds and servants reaffirmed the vital importance of shared formation, education, and spiritual renewal in today’s ecclesial landscape.

This visit to Mechernich followed a spiritual pilgrimage of sorts, beginning with the joyful celebration in Rome and culminating in an encounter with the heart of the Communio community. Here, amidst images of Mother Marie Therese and her earliest companions, the Bishop reflected on the richness of their charism and its deep resonance with the Church’s mission.

Speaking of the legacy he encountered, Bishop Mor Irenios expressed profound admiration for the universal vision embodied in the foundations of Mother Marie Therese. He observed that their witness “truly represents what the Church is called to be”—a community marked by faith, hope, and charity, reaching out in love to a world in need.

This harmonious encounter is a witness to the Church’s catholicity, not merely as a geographical or institutional reality but as a spiritual communion transcending nations and cultures. It reminds the Syro Malankara faithful that their own traditions are part of a wider map, woven together by shared faith and mission.

The visit to Mechernich thus stands as a moment of spiritual enrichment and ecclesial fraternity, inspiring renewed commitment to the ideals of prayer, service, and evangelisation both in India and abroad.

The Syro Malankara Catholic Church, represented with distinction by Bishop Samuel Mor Irenios, continues to nurture ties that strengthen the bonds of faith, nurture spiritual growth, and embody the unity for which Christ prayed.

As this visit draws to a close, the faithful of Pathanamthitta and the global Syro Malankara community uphold the Bishop in prayer, confident that such connections will bear abundant fruit in the Church’s ongoing journey towards holiness and mission.

Malankara Catholic Church Extends Ecclesial Solidarity at Historic Installation of Kozhikode’s First Metropolitan Archbishop

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Malankara Catholic Church Extends Ecclesial Solidarity at Historic Installation of Kozhikode’s First Metropolitan Archbishop

25 May 2025 | Kozhikode

In a moment marked by grace and ecclesial unity, our Syro-Malankara Catholic Church stood in prayerful presence as Kozhikode was elevated to the status of a Metropolitan Archdiocese and His Grace Archbishop Dr. Varghese Chakkalakal was installed as its first Metropolitan Archbishop.

His Eminent Beatitude Cardinal Moran Mor Baselios Cleemis Catholicos, Major Archbishop-Catholicos of our Syro-Malankara Catholic Church and President of the Kerala Catholic Bishops’ Council, led the Word of God proclamation during the solemn Holy Qurbono, standing as a fraternal witness to this milestone in the Latin Catholic Church of northern Kerala.

We were further represented by His Grace Most Rev. Dr. Thomas Mor Koorilos, His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Joshua Mor Ignathios, and several other bishops and clergy from our Church, affirming the unity of the Catholic communion and the spiritual bond shared with the faithful of Malabar.

The Sacred Ascent of Kozhikode

In the presence of thousands of faithful, clergy, and dignitaries from across the nation, Archbishop Dr. Varghese Chakkalakal was solemnly enthroned at St Joseph’s Cathedral, Kozhikode, on 26 May 2025. His Excellency Archbishop Dr. Leopoldo Girelli, the Apostolic Nuncio to India, served as the principal celebrant and officiant of the rite.

The proclamation of Pope Francis’ Apostolic Bull—announcing the elevation of the Diocese of Kozhikode and the appointment of its first Metropolitan Archbishop—was received with deep joy. The readings in Latin, English, and Malayalam were rendered by senior vicars and the Archdiocesan Chancellor, drawing applause and prayerful reverence from the faithful.

Archbishop Chakkalakal then publicly professed his faith and was led to the Metropolitan throne, after which bishops, clergy, religious superiors, forane vicars, and lay representatives came forward to pledge their obedience and unity.

An Ecclesial Gathering of Witness

The Divine Liturgy, presided over by the new Metropolitan Archbishop, was a celebration marked by profound solemnity and inter-ritual fraternal love. Alongside His Eminent Beatitude Cardinal Moran Mor Baselios Cleemis Catholicos, numerous bishops from the Syro-Malankara, Syro-Malabar, and Latin Churches concelebrated and witnessed the liturgy. Among them were:

  • His Grace Archbishop Mar Andrews Thazhath, President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI)
  • His Grace Archbishop Dr. Thomas J. Netto, of Trivandrum
  • His Grace Archbishop Mar Joseph Pamplany, of Tellicherry
  • His Grace Archbishop Thomas Mor Koorilos
  • His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Joshua Mor Ignathios
  • Other bishops from Kannur, Sultanpet, Kottappuram, and Verapoly

Our Church’s presence at this event was not merely ceremonial, but deeply spiritual—a reaffirmation of our shared apostolic mission and mutual respect rooted in the West Syriac and Latin traditions.

Reflections on Archbishop Chakkalakal’s Journey

Archbishop Varghese Chakkalakal was ordained a priest in 1981 and was part of the first batch ordained by Bishop Maxwell Valentine Noronha. Appointed by Pope John Paul II as the first Bishop of Kannur in 1998, and later transferred to Kozhikode by Pope Benedict XVI in 2012, Archbishop Chakkalakal has served with distinction, humility, and theological clarity.

He has held numerous leadership roles in the Church, including Secretary General of the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI) and President of the Kerala Region Latin Catholic Bishops’ Council (KRLCBC). He currently chairs the CCBI Commission for Vocations, Seminaries, Clergy, and Religious.

The elevation of Kozhikode as the third Roman Catholic Metropolitan Archdiocese in Kerala, following Verapoly and Trivandrum, comes at a historic juncture—coinciding with the centenary of the Diocese and the silver jubilee of Archbishop Chakkalakal’s episcopal ministry. The Apostolic Constitution bearing Pope Francis’ signature was dated 12 April 2025, the eve of Palm Sunday, just a week before his passing.

Legacy of Malabar’s Evangelical Mission

The Church in Kozhikode stands on a long tradition of missionary presence. From the arrival of Portuguese missionary Pedro Covilham in 1498, to the establishment of the first church in 1500 dedicated to St Anthony, to the missionary zeal of Italian Jesuits like Aldo Maria Patroni, who later supported the growth of the Syro-Malabar Eparchy of Tellicherry—Kozhikode’s ecclesiastical soil is rich in sacrifice and service.

It is from this tradition that Archbishop Chakkalakal now assumes the mantle of Metropolitan leadership, not as a solitary figure of honour, but as a servant of the Gospel, tasked with continuing the work begun by those who first brought the Word to the western shores of India.

Our Witness, Our Prayer

For us in the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church, the moment was one of solidarity, hope, and ecclesial communion. As we stood with our Latin brethren in their hour of celebration, we also renewed our own dedication to the unity of the Catholic Church in Kerala—a unity not of uniformity, but of shared faith expressed through distinct liturgical beauty and apostolic fidelity.

May Archbishop Chakkalakal’s service as Metropolitan be marked by wisdom, pastoral zeal, and a deep love for the people of God.

Supporting Students, Honoring Creation, and Welcoming New Leadership in Parassala

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Supporting Students, Honoring Creation, and Welcoming New Leadership in Parassala

On Sunday, 24th May 2025, the Malankara Catholic Mothers’ Forum of the Parassala Eparchy convened a heartfelt and inspiring event at St. Pius X Malankara Catholic Church, Cheruvarakonam, within the Parassala Ecclesiastical District. The gathering was a beautiful blend of charity, community awareness, and ecclesial fellowship, touching on three important facets of faith and service.

The event began with the distribution of study materials to deserving students who, despite financial challenges, excelled in their Class X examinations. This act of support was a tangible expression of the community’s commitment to nurturing the future of its youth, encouraging them to pursue their educational goals with confidence and hope.

In keeping with the global call to stewardship, the celebration also honoured Environment Day. The Mothers’ Forum used this opportunity to awaken a deeper sense of responsibility among the faithful for protecting our common home. Emphasising care for creation, the gathering inspired all present to engage actively in safeguarding the natural world entrusted to us by God.

A moment of gratitude and transition marked the ceremony as the community acknowledged the devoted service of Rev. Fr. Jose Parayilkadackal, who faithfully led the Mothers’ Forum for over seven and a half years. His guidance helped many mothers grow in faith and commitment. With warmth and prayers, the community welcomed the new Director, Rev. Fr. John Paul Poovanvilayil, as he embarked on his ministry, offering him their best wishes and support.

This joyful occasion stood as a testament to the strength of the Syro Malankara Catholic community in Parassala—united in faith, dedicated to service, and hopeful for the future. May such gatherings continue to enrich the spiritual and social fabric of the Church, encouraging each member to live out their baptismal call with love and purpose.

MCA Tiruvalla Region’s 2025 Santhwana Yathra Begins with Faith and Charity

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MCA Tiruvalla Region’s 2025 Santhwana Yathra Begins with Faith and Charity

Tiruvalla – May 2025

It began not with applause, but with a prayer. A flag raised not in triumph, but in service. The 2025 Santhwana Yathra of the Malankara Catholic Association (MCA) Tiruvalla Region was formally inaugurated at St. John’s Cathedral, Tiruvalla, as the faithful prepared to carry the light of consolation to communities in need.

The mission caravan, organised under the leadership of the MCA Tiruvalla Region, is part of Mission 2025, an ecclesial initiative designed to reach the spiritually and materially deprived areas of India’s mission territories—this year with a special focus on the rural regions of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.

The inauguration ceremony was led by Rev. Fr. Santhosh (Cherian) Azhakath, Director of Catechetics for the Archieparchy of Tiruvalla. He handed over the MCA flag to Shri Biju George, President of the Tiruvalla Region MCA, symbolising the start of the sacred journey. Rev. Fr. Mathai Vazhayil offered prayers for the success of the mission and for all who would be served along its route.

The event was attended by MCA Tiruvalla Archieparchy President Shri Biju Palathingal, who offered words of encouragement and blessings to the mission team. Rev. Fr. Sajan Peedikayil coordinated the event and provided logistical leadership.

True to the spirit of Malankara’s apostolic call, the mission team has taken with them not only the Good News but also educational supplies for 2000 schoolchildren, collected from various parishes, carefully packed at Changanacherry and loaded onto a mission truck headed south.

The mission team will be received at Hosur on Saturday by MCA Global President Shri Baiju S.R., who has been a steadfast supporter of all mission endeavours from the ecclesial level.

The return of the team is scheduled for the following week, after completing their pastoral and charitable engagements. The mission is being guided by a dedicated leadership team including Tiruvalla Region President Shri Biju George, Spiritual Director Rev. Fr. Mathai Vazhayil, Shri John Mammen, Smt. Mini David, Shri Reji A.C., Rev. Fr. Jose Bennett, and Rev. Fr. Christudas.

As the wheels roll across borders and the hymn of hope is sung in new lands, we are reminded that mission is not merely an event—it is the heartbeat of the Church. And those who go forth with sandals of peace are not mere pilgrims, but vessels of grace.

Let us keep the mission team in our prayers and uphold their work with joy and solidarity.

Consecration of the New Avaneeshwaram Parish Church by Moran Mor Baselios Cardinal Cleemis Catholicos

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Consecration of the New Avaneeshwaram Parish Church by Moran Mor Baselios Cardinal Cleemis Catholicos

Avaneeswaram – 24 May 2025

What begins with water and prayer becomes no ordinary building—it becomes a dwelling of the Most High. On Saturday, 24 May 2025, at 2:00 PM, the faithful of St Mary’s Malankara Syrian Catholic Church, Avaneeswaram, gathered in solemn devotion as their newly constructed church, dedicated in the Most Holy Name of the Blessed Virgin Mary, was consecrated with great liturgical dignity.

Presiding over the sacred rite was His Eminent Beatitude Cardinal Moran Mor Baselios Cleemis Catholicos, Major Archbishop-Catholicos of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church and shepherd of the Major Archieparchy of Trivandrum. Assisting in the holy act was His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Mathews Mor Polycarpos, Auxiliary Bishop of the Major Archieparchy.

This event marked a profound moment in the life of the Avaneeswaram parish, originally established in 1966 by the beloved and ever-remembered Archbishop Benedict Mor Gregorios. What he once planted as a seed of faith has now, nearly six decades later, flowered into a place of worship resplendent in grace.

The consecration ceremony encompassed the blessing of the new church, the foot of the Cross (Kurishadi), the stone cross (Kalkurishu), and the ceremonial flagpole (Kodimaram)—each element woven into the rich sacramental tradition of our West Syriac Rite.

In the hush of the afternoon, as sacred hymns rose like incense, the faithful witnessed not merely the completion of a structure, but the fulfilment of prayers whispered over generations. Stone met blessing, wood met Word, and water met Spirit. The very ground seemed to echo the Magnificat, as the Church—Mother and Bride—stood radiant once more.

May this house of God now serve as a wellspring of holiness, where sacraments flow, burdens are lifted, and the divine liturgy elevates our hearts heavenward. Let it stand as a witness to the enduring faith of our people and the maternal care of Our Lady, Mother of God, under whose name this church has been placed.

We give thanks, and we remember.

Sanctified in the Name of the Theotokos: Consecration of the Renovated St. Mary’s Malankara Syrian Catholic Church, Chirattakonam

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Sanctified in the Name of the Theotokos: Consecration of the Renovated St. Mary’s Malankara Syrian Catholic Church, Chirattakonam

Chirattakonam – 23 May 2025

In the quiet heart of Chirattakonam, where faith ripens in silence and devotion springs like a hidden well, a sacred chapter unfolded on the afternoon of 23 May 2025. The St. Mary’s Malankara Syrian Catholic Church, lovingly renovated and rededicated to the protection of the Most Holy Theotokos, was solemnly consecrated in the presence of clergy, religious, and the faithful of the region.

The Koodasha Karmam (Rite of Dedication) was celebrated with great spiritual fervour under the principal liturgical leadership of His Eminent Beatitude Cardinal Moran Mor Baselios Cleemis Catholicos, Major Archbishop-Catholicos of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church and head of the Major Archieparchy of Trivandrum.

His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Mathews Mor Polycarpos, Auxiliary Bishop of the Major Archieparchy, concelebrated and offered his blessings as co-celebrant, marking the day with solemn dignity and pastoral grace.

The renovated church, standing as a spiritual centre for the Chirattakonam region, now gleams as a visible sign of the Malankara Church’s living faith and unbroken tradition. It is more than stone and structure; it is a house of prayer built upon generations of trust in divine providence.

With this act of consecration, the faithful of Chirattakonam have reclaimed their sacred space in renewed beauty and rededicated it to God’s service. Each litany sung, every drop of oil anointed, and each grain of incense offered became part of a spiritual tapestry—binding heaven and earth in liturgical splendour.

As the bell rang out over the newly sanctified space, it was not merely a sound but a summons—a call to prayer, to community, and to a future rooted in the grace of the present moment.

May the prayers that rise from this holy place bring healing to the weary, strength to the weak, and joy to all who call upon the name of the Blessed Mother, Queen of Peace and Protectress of the Malankara Church.

Foundational Stone of St Benedict Malankara Catholic Church, Konnithazham, Blessed by the Holy Father Pope Leo XIV

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Foundational Stone of St Benedict Malankara Catholic Church, Konnithazham, Blessed by the Holy Father Pope Leo XIV

Vatican – May 2025

There are rare moments when heaven seems to stoop gently to earth — and one such moment unfolded in the Eternal City.

His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Samuel Mor Irenios, Bishop of Pathanamthitta, was received in solemn grace by His Holiness Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican this May. In a gesture both deeply symbolic and spiritually profound, the Holy Father personally blessed the foundational stone of the newly rebuilt St Benedict Malankara Syrian Catholic Church, Konnithazham, and handed it over to His Excellency.

This is not merely a ceremony etched in protocol; it is a living gesture of communion — a sign that the universal Church watches over even our most humble parishes with love and concern. The parish of Konnithazham, rooted deeply in the spiritual soil of the Pathanamthitta Eparchy, now holds a direct bond with the See of Peter.

When this stone is laid into the earth of Konnithazham, it will do more than bear the physical weight of the church. It will carry the memory of an Anugrahitha Nimisham — a Blessed Moment — when a church from the verdant hills of Kerala was spiritually embraced in the heart of Christendom.

May this act strengthen the faith of our people, and may the intercession of St Benedict, patron of the parish, bless the construction and consecration of this sacred temple.

Consecration of “Shalom Bhavan”: A Shepherd’s Dwelling Rises in Anchal

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Consecration of “Shalom Bhavan”: A Shepherd’s Dwelling Rises in Anchal

Anchal – 22 May 2025

There are houses made of stone and there are houses made of prayer. When both come together, they form a dwelling not just for the body, but for the soul entrusted with the care of souls. Such a home was consecrated at 3:00 PM on 22 May 2025 at the Mar Gregorios Campus in Anchal, the pastoral nerve centre of the Anchal Ecclesiastical District.

“Shalom Bhavan,” the newly constructed priest residence, was solemnly blessed by His Eminent Beatitude Cardinal Moran Mor Baselios Cleemis Catholicos, Major Archbishop-Catholicos of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church, with the co-celebration of His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Mathews Mor Polycarpos, Auxiliary Bishop of the Major Archieparchy of Trivandrum.

This building is more than walls and rooms—it is a tribute, a remembrance, a continuation. It was erected in honour of the late Venerable Msgr. Alexander Valiyaveettil Corepiscopa, who served this region alongside the saintly Venerable Mar Ivanios and the esteemed Archbishop Mar Gregorios with unwavering dedication for decades.

The residence stands today not as an isolated structure, but as part of the living legacy of pastoral care, formed in prayer and shaped by sacrifice. Attached to the residence is a chapel—a sacred sanctuary consecrated in the name of Venerable Carlo Acutis, a saintly youth of our times whose life of Eucharistic devotion has captured the imagination of this generation.

That this house bears the name “Shalom”—peace—is fitting. For it is meant to be a place of prayerful rest and spiritual readiness for priests, who are called to be instruments of Christ’s peace in a world all too familiar with unrest.

May “Shalom Bhavan” become a space where the clergy find not only shelter but strength; not only retreat but renewal. And may the memory of those who served here before, especially Msgr. Alexander Valiyaveettil Corepiscopa, continue to inspire generations of priests to come—who, like him, will walk humbly with God and serve faithfully in the vineyard of the Lord.

With Thanksgiving and Blessings: Farewell to His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Joshua Mor Ignathios as He Enters Retirement

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With Thanksgiving and Blessings: Farewell to His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Joshua Mor Ignathios as He Enters Retirement

Mavelikara – 21st May, 2025

In a moment woven with both gratitude and grace, the faithful of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Eparchy of Mavelikara offered heartfelt farewell prayers and warm tributes to His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Joshua Mor Ignathios, as he enters his well-earned time of retirement after decades of dedicated episcopal service.

The celebration began with the Holy Qurbono of Thanksgiving, led by His Excellency Mor Ignathios himself. Concelebrating with him were Rev. Dr. John Vaipil, Rev. Fr. Robert Palavilayil, Parish Priest Rev. Fr. Mathew Chenkilath, and Rev. Fr. Daniel Puthenpurackal, who together expressed their fraternal love at the altar.

Following the Divine Liturgy, a meeting was held under the gracious presidency of His Excellency. Words of affection and esteem were shared by Rev. Dr. Msgr. Stephen Kulathumkarott, Rev. Fr. Mathew Jacob Thiruvalil, Rev. Sr. Pushpa S.I.C., and Mr. Rajan Punchakkala, among others.

Parish Trustee Mr. Thomas Mathew Puthiyidam extended a heartfelt welcome, while Secretary Mr. Sajan Varghese offered the vote of thanks. Rev. Fr. Mathew Chenkilath, the Parish Priest, led all the arrangements with careful attention and affection, making the event one of deep spiritual and emotional significance.

As a token of their love and gratitude, the parish community presented a memento to His Excellency, conveying their prayerful wishes for his days ahead. The celebration concluded with blessings and communal prayers, surrounding His Excellency with warmth and reverence.

His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Joshua Mor Ignathios, who shepherded the flock of Mavelikara with zeal, wisdom, and unwavering faith, now steps into a quieter chapter—yet his imprint remains deep within the life of the Church and in the hearts of his people.

Let our prayers accompany him in thanksgiving, and may this season of rest be filled with the peace of Christ whom he served so faithfully.

Laying the Foundation Stone: Sixth Home Blessed under MCYM–KMRM Kuwait Housing Project

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Laying the Foundation Stone: Sixth Home Blessed under MCYM–KMRM Kuwait Housing Project

Pathanamthitta – 19 May 2025

In the quiet morning hours of Monday, 19 May 2025, a small patch of earth in the St Mary’s Malankara Syrian Catholic Parish, Mekozhoor, was touched by grace. The occasion was the laying of the foundation stone for the sixth home being constructed under the Housing Project jointly undertaken by the Malankara Catholic Youth Movement (MCYM) and the Kuwait Region of Malankara Rite Movement (KMRM).

This initiative, rooted in the Gospel call to charity, has grown quietly and faithfully—house by house, prayer by prayer. The foundation stone was blessed and laid in the presence of Rt. Rev. Msgr. Jose Chamakalayil Ramban, Rev. Fr. Mathew Alumoottil, and Rev. Fr. Robin Kalathivila, with the service led by Rev. Fr. David Pezhummoottil (Jithu), Parish Priest of the Mekozhoor Church.

Also present were Mr James K. S., President of MCYM, and Mr Gilto James, former MCYM President and Coordinator of the Housing Project. Their steady commitment continues to bring light into the lives of the poor and marginalised within our Eparchy.

This sixth home is not merely a structure of bricks and mortar—it is a dwelling raised by love, prayer, and sacrifice. In an age where generosity often slips into silence, this project echoes the spirit of the Good Samaritan, restoring hope to those whose lives cry out for shelter and dignity.

May the Lord bless the family who will one day step across this threshold, and may those who give and serve through this project be rewarded in abundance.

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