Consecration of St. Nicholas Malankara Syrian Catholic Church, Keerikuzhi

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Consecration of St. Nicholas Malankara Syrian Catholic Church, Keerikuzhi

The consecration (Koothasa) of the newly constructed St. Nicholas Malankara Syrian Catholic Church in Keerikuzhi, under the Kazhakootam Vicariate of the Major Archdiocese of Thiruvananthapuram, was held on September 14, 2024, at 3:00 PM. The consecration ceremony was led by His Beatitude Moran Mor Baselios Cardinal Cleemis, Catholicos of the Syro Malankara Catholic Church. Assisting in the sacred service was His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Mathews Mor Polycarpos, Auxiliary Bishop of the Major Archdiocese of Thiruvananthapuram.

The consecration was attended by several key clergy members, including:

  • Rt. Rev. Dr. Varkey Attupurath Corepiscopo, Vicar General of the Major Archdiocese
  • Very Rev. Fr. Thomas Kayyalakkal
  • V. Rev. Philipose Ramban
  • Very Rev. Fr. Thomas Poovannal, Episcopal Vicar for Charity of the Major Archdiocese
  • Very Rev. Dr. John Kuttiyil, Chancellor
  • Very Rev. Fr. Dr. Koshy Issac Punnamoottil, Finance Officer
  • Rev. Fr. Varghese Pullumvila Thekkethil, Assistant Finance Officer
  • Very Rev. Fr. Joseph Venmanath, Judicial Vicar and Kazhakootam District Vicar
  • Very Rev. Dr. George Thomas, Vicar of the Cathedral and District Vicar of Thiruvananthapuram
  • Very Rev. Fr. Bovas Mathew, PRO of the Major Archdiocese and Anchal District Vicar
  • Very Rev. Fr. C.C. John, Punalur District Vicar
  • Rev. Fr. Mathew (Nelson) Valiyaveettil, Rector of Palayam St. Therese of Lisieux Basilica of Peace
  • Very Rev. Mother Mary John, Superior of St. Mary’s Province, Bethany Sisters

Many other clergy, sisters, and faithful from across the region were present for this historic occasion.

Following the consecration ceremony, a public meeting was held under the chairmanship of His Beatitude the Catholicos. The event was inaugurated by the former Minister and Kazhakootam MLA, Shri Kadakampally Surendran. Other speakers included Ward Councillor Shri Chempazhanthy Udayan, KPMS Keerikuzhi Branch Secretary Shri Udayapuram Aji, and Rev. Fr. Suresh Jose, Vicar of Keerikuzhi CSI Church.

The day’s events concluded with a celebratory Holy Qurbono, led by His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Mathews Mor Polycarpos, followed by a love feast (Sneha Virunnu) for all the attendees.

Sister Monica S.I.C. Passes Away at 90

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Sister Monica S.I.C. Passes Away at 90

Sister Monica S.I.C., a beloved member of the Bethany Congregation (Sisters of the Imitation of Christ) in the Thiruvananthapuram Province, passed away on September 13, 2024, at the age of 90. She hailed from the Puthenparambil family in Kurathiyad, Mavelikara.

The funeral services will be held on September 16, 2024 at 9am, at the Bethany Convent Cemetery, Nalanchira, Thiruvananthapuram.

May Sister’s Soul Rest in Peace.

Quarterly Gathering of Priests and Year of the Word Study Session Held at Pathanamthitta Bishop’s House

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Quarterly Gathering of Priests and Year of the Word Study Session Held at Pathanamthitta Bishop’s House

The Diocese of Pathanamthitta hosted its quarterly gathering of priests and a special Year of the Word Study Session at the Pathanamthitta Bishop’s House on 10th September 2024. This gathering served as a time for reflection, spiritual renewal, and scholarly engagement for the clergy of the diocese, highlighting the continued focus on deepening the understanding of Holy Scripture.

The study session, which centred around the Year of the Word, was led by His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Antony Mor Silvanos, the Church’s respected scholar and spiritual leader. As part of the Church’s commitment to the Year of the Word, Mor Silvanos encouraged the priests to engage deeply with Scripture, urging them to reflect on its role in both personal faith and pastoral ministry.

The Year of the Word, declared as part of the centenary celebrations of the Malankara Syrian Catholic Church, emphasises the importance of the Holy Bible in daily life. The initiative seeks to foster a renewed focus on studying, understanding, and living the Word of God, not just for the clergy, but for the entire community. During the session, Mor Silvanos guided the priests through various biblical themes and interpretations, encouraging thoughtful discussions on how to integrate Scripture more effectively into their sermons and pastoral care.

This quarterly gathering also provided an opportunity for the priests to reflect on their shared mission, discuss the challenges of pastoral work, and seek spiritual and emotional rejuvenation. The close-knit clergy of the Diocese of Pathanamthitta, under the guidance of Bishop Samuel Mor Irenios, have consistently come together to strengthen their bond, supporting one another in their service to the faithful.

The serene atmosphere of the Bishop’s House in Pathanamthitta, located amidst the natural beauty of Kerala, added to the reflective nature of the event. Pathanamthitta, known for its historical and spiritual significance, continues to be a hub of vibrant Christian life. This quarterly gathering reflects the Church’s ongoing efforts to provide spiritual nourishment and leadership for its priests as they guide the community in faith.

As the priests left the session, they were reinvigorated, armed with deeper insights from the Bible, ready to serve their congregations with renewed zeal and understanding. The study session marked another step in the Diocese’s journey through the Year of the Word, a journey that continues to inspire both clergy and laity to live by the principles of the Gospel.

Bethany Sisters Centennial Celebrations: Deepashikha Procession

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Bethany Sisters Centennial Celebrations: Deepashikha Procession

Thiruvananthapuram: As part of the centennial celebrations of the Bethany Sisters (Sisters of the Imitation of Christ), a ceremonial Deepashikha (lighted lamp) procession will take place from St. Mary’s Cathedral in Pattom to the Bethany Convent in Thirumoolapuram on Tuesday.

The Deepashikha will be blessed by His Beatitude Moran Mor Baselios Cardinal Cleemis, Catholicos of the Syro Malankara Catholic Church, at 8:00 AM. It will be received by Mother Ardra, Superior General of the Bethany Sisters.

The procession will make stops at several important locations, including Nalanchira Bethany Sisters Provincialate, Pirappancode St. John’s Malankara Medical Village, Ayoor St. Mary’s Malankara Catholic Church, Valakom St. Mary’s Bethany Central School, Chengannur St. Thomas Malankara Catholic Church, and Thirumoolapuram St. Mary’s Malankara Catholic Church, where it will be ceremoniously welcomed.

UAE Malankara Community: Spiritual Growth for the Young and Mothers Alike

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UAE Malankara Community: Spiritual Growth for the Young and Mothers Alike

The Syro Malankara Catholic community in the UAE continues to foster spiritual growth and unity, with two significant events held on September 8, 2024: the inauguration of the 2024 Action Plan by the Malankara Catholic Children’s League (MCCL) UAE, and a special online talk session organised by the Malankara Catholic Mothers Forum (MCMF) Dubai in honour of Mother Mary’s Feast.

MCCL UAE 2024 Action Plan Inauguration

The children of MCCL UAE came together for the inauguration of their 2024 Action Plan (Karma Pathadhi) under the spiritual guidance of Rev. Fr. Mathews Allumootil, MCCL Director UAE, and Rt. Rev. Fr. John Thundiyath, Corepiscopo. The event brought together over 30 children from across the UAE, fostering a sense of community and spiritual growth. The inauguration was followed by a Holy Rosary Prayer, allowing the young participants to reflect on their faith and the significance of prayer in their lives.

“Mary: Mother of Unity” – MCMF Dubai Online Session

On the same day, the Malankara Catholic Mothers Forum (MCMF) Dubai hosted a spiritually enriching online talk session in honour of the Feast of Mother Mary. The session, titled Mary: Mother of Unity, was led by Rev. Sr. Dr. Ardra S.I.C., Superior General of the Bethany Sisters. Her insightful reflections provided the participants with a deeper understanding of the Blessed Virgin Mary’s role as the “Mother of Unity,” offering spiritual inspiration to all who attended.

Both events highlight the UAE Malankara community’s dedication to spiritual development and the nurturing of faith, with the youth and mothers coming together to grow in their understanding of the Church’s teachings. These gatherings continue to strengthen the bonds of faith and fellowship within the community.

UAE MCCL
UAE MCMF

Logo Unveiling for “EPIC 2024” Youth Gathering of Pathanamthitta Diocese Held

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Logo Unveiling for “EPIC 2024” Youth Gathering of Pathanamthitta Diocese Held

The official logo for “EPIC 2024”, the MCYM Pathanamthitta Diocese Youth Gathering, was unveiled during a special ceremony. The youth gathering, which will coincide with the feast of St. Francis of Assisi, the heavenly patron of the MCYM movement, is scheduled to take place on October 6, 2024, at the St. Mary’s Malankara Syrian Catholic Church, Poonkavu, hosted by the Konni Ecclesiastical District.

The logo was unveiled by Rev. Fr. Dr. Sijo James Charuvuparampil, Rector of the Pathanamthitta Diocesan Minor Seminary and Vicar of the Poonkavu parish, by handing it over to Bibin Abraham, the Diocesan President of MCYM. The ceremony was attended by various dignitaries including Subin Thomas, the Diocesan General Secretary, Visakh V. L., the Diocesan Treasurer, Teni Saji, Secretary of the Youth Forum, Lijo Philip, Syndicate Member of the Church, Nibin P. Samuel, Senate Representative of KCYM, Prince Abraham, President of the Konni Clerical District, and Jerin, President of the Poonkavu Unit.

The event also saw the presence of several office bearers from the Konni Clerical District, youth members from Poonkavu, Valanchuzhy units, and a vibrant gathering of MCYM representatives.

The theme of the diocesan youth gathering, “Christian Youth with Compassion in Their Eyes, Fire in Their Hearts, and Wings on Their Feet”, encapsulates the spirit of young Christians who are dedicated to serving with kindness, passion, and unwavering energy.

“EPIC 2024” promises to be a spiritually enriching and motivational experience for all attendees, bringing together youth from across the diocese to share in faith, fellowship, and the mission of the Church. The event will highlight the importance of Christian values and leadership among the younger generation, encouraging them to live out their faith with zeal and dedication.

New Road, New Chapel, New Hope in Ethiopian Mission

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New Road, New Chapel, New Hope in Ethiopian Mission

In a groundbreaking project personally sanctioned by His Holiness Pope Francis, the Bethany Congregation has made remarkable strides in uplifting a marginalized tribal community in Ethiopia. The project has already seen over 300 baptisms and the construction of a new chapel, symbolising new hope and spiritual renewal for this once ostracised community.

The newly constructed road, an essential part of the project, was recently inaugurated by Cardinal Berhaneyesus Demerew Souraphiel CM, President of the Ethiopian Episcopal Conference. The inauguration was attended by prominent church leaders, including His Excellency Bishop Muse Gabreghiorgis OFM Cap., Bishop of the Emdibir Eparchy, Rev. Msgr. Massimo Catterin, Deputy Head of Missions – Ethiopian Apostolic Nunciature, and Rev. Dr. Geevarghese Kuttiyil OIC, Superior General of the Bethany Congregation. Also present were Rev. Fr. Augustine Kavungal OIC, and several priests and religious from Bethany Gedam, Ethiopia, along with hundreds of local residents.

Rev. Dr. Geevarghese Kuttiyil OIC expressed profound gratitude to His Holiness Pope Francis for the support and recognition of their mission. He highlighted that this project marks a pivotal moment in the Congregation’s efforts to serve the region, and assured that their mission to bring integral development to the Ethiopian community will continue with renewed vigour.

A Visionary Life of Service: Benedict Mor Gregorios Remembered, Says Catholicos Cleemis

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A Visionary Life of Service: Benedict Mor Gregorios Remembered, Says Catholicos Cleemis

Kallooppara: His Beatitude Moran Mor Baselios Cleemis, Catholicos of the Syro Malankara Catholic Church, commemorated Archbishop Benedict Mor Gregorios as a spiritual leader with prophetic insight into humanity and nature. During the 18th Archbishop Benedict Mor Gregorios Foundation Award Ceremony at the Archbishop Mor Gregorios Public School Auditorium in Kottur, the Catholicos reflected on how Mor Gregorios, many years ago, recognized the dangers of climate change and its potential impact on agriculture. His visionary leadership extended beyond spirituality, earning him great respect for his forward-thinking approach.

The event was presided over by His Grace Most Rev. Dr. Thomas Mor Koorilos, Metropolitan Archbishop of the Archieparchy of Tiruvalla. Dr. Jacob Punnoose, former Director General of Police (DGP) of Kerala and State Police Chief, delivered a commemorative address, and Kottayam MP Adv. K. Francis George gave the keynote speech.

His Beatitude Moran Mor Baselios Cleemis presented the Archbishop Award to Rev. Fr. George Joshua Kanneeleth, Director of Archbishop Mar Gregorios Snehaveedu, Nalanchira, in recognition of his outstanding contributions. In addition, a new book titled Benedict Mor Gregorios – The Legend and The Legacy, authored by Dr. Cyriac Thomas, former Vice-Chancellor of Mahatma Gandhi University, was released by the Catholicos. The first copy was presented to Adv. Francis George.

Among the key speakers were His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Philipos Mor Stephanos, Bishop of the Eparchy of St. Mary, Queen of Peace, USA & Canada, Rev. Fr. Dr. George Joseph Ayyaneth OIC, Superior of Bethany Navajyothi Province, Sr. Dr. Ardra S.I.C., President of the Kerala Conference of Major Superiors, and Adv. Abraham M. Pattiyani, President of the Malankara Catholic Association of the Syro Malankara Catholic Church.

Rev. Fr. Dr. Ignatius Thangalathil OIC, brother of the late Archbishop Benedict Mor Gregorios (baptismal name Varghese Thangalathil), also addressed the gathering. His speech, along with those of Foundation President Alex Kuriakose and Secretary Prof. Jacob M. Abraham, provided moving insights into the Archbishop’s legacy.

Rt. Rev. Cherian Ramanalil Corepiscopo and T.J. Joseph, founding members of the Archbishop Benedict Mor Gregorios Foundation, were honoured for their service during the event.

The ceremony served as a tribute to the enduring legacy of Archbishop Benedict Mor Gregorios, whose visionary service continues to inspire both spiritual and environmental progress within the community.

Tiruvalla Archdiocesan Laity Supports Wayanad Rehabilitation

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Tiruvalla Archdiocesan Laity Supports Wayanad Rehabilitation

The Syro Malankara Catholic Church’s Malankara Catholic Association (MCA) from the Tiruvalla Archdiocese has extended its support to the rehabilitation efforts in Wayanad. The various sector committees under the leadership of the MCA gathered a total of ₹12 lakhs for the cause.

In a special ceremony held in the presence of archdiocesan leaders and clerical advisors, the collected amount was handed over to His Grace Most Rev. Dr. Thomas Mor Koorilos, Metropolitan Archbishop of the Archieparchy of Tiruvalla. His Grace praised the selfless efforts of the laity and clergy involved in raising funds for the rehabilitation of Wayanad, demonstrating the Church’s commitment to standing with those in need.

The support from the Syro Malankara Catholic Church’s Malankara Catholic Association (MCA) comes at a crucial time, as Wayanad has been severely affected by devastating floods and landslides. The disaster, which struck in late July 2024, resulted in the loss of over 336 lives, with 397 people injured and 78 still missing. The floods and landslides caused extensive damage to property, estimated at ₹1,200 crore, and displaced around 10,000 people. The heavy rains triggered landslides that swept through villages, flattening homes and leaving many stranded. Rescue operations have been ongoing, with efforts from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Army, and local volunteers. The situation in Wayanad remains dire, with many communities struggling to rebuild their lives amidst the devastation.

Pastoral Transitions in the Syro-Malankara Catholic Eparchy in the USA and Canada

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Pastoral Transitions in the Syro-Malankara Catholic Eparchy in the USA and Canada

The Syro-Malankara Catholic Eparchy in the USA and Canada recently announced a series of significant pastoral transitions, expressing deep gratitude and welcoming new leadership for its churches in Canada.

Farewell to Rev. Fr. Abraham Lukose Kizhakkedath

Rev. Fr. Abraham Lukose Kizhakkedath has been relieved of his responsibilities as Pastor of St. Thomas Syro-Malankara Catholic Church in London, Ontario, and as the Moderator of St. Mary Syro-Malankara Catholic Church in Toronto, Canada. After fourteen (14) years of dedicated pastoral service, the Eparchy expresses profound thanks for Fr. Abraham’s remarkable leadership, particularly for his contributions to the churches in New York, Toronto, and London. His commitment to nurturing these communities has been deeply appreciated.

Rev. Fr. Abraham Lukose Kizhakkedath will return to India to continue his ministry in the Eparchy of Mavelikkara, and the Eparchy in the USA and Canada wishes him God’s blessings in his future assignments.

New Pastoral Appointments

  1. Rev. Fr. Jobin Thomas has been appointed Pastor of St. Thomas Syro-Malankara Catholic Church in London, Ontario, effective August 26, 2024. Fr. Jobin previously served as the Associate Pastor of St. Thomas Syro-Malankara Catholic Church in Elizabeth, New Jersey, and as Chancery Secretary for the Eparchy. The Eparchy extends warm congratulations and prayers for his success in his new ministry.
  2. Rev. Fr. Varghese Anchanithadathil has been appointed Pastor of St. Mary’s Syro-Malankara Catholic Church in Toronto, effective August 15, 2024. The Eparchy congratulates Fr. Varghese on this new role and sends its prayerful best wishes as he begins his ministry in Toronto.
Fr. Abraham Lukose Kizhakkedath
Fr. Jobin Thomas
Fr. Varghese Anchanithadathil
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