Sister Pavana D.M., a beloved member of the Daughters of Mary Congregation, St. Joseph’s Province, Marthandam, passed away on August 1, 2024, at the age of 72. Her life of dedicated service and prayer touched the hearts of many in the community.
The funeral services were held on August 2, 2024, at the St. Joseph’s Province Cemetery, Marthandam, with His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Vincent Mar Paulos, Bishop of Marthandam, as the chief celebrant.
Sister Pavana’s passing is a great loss to the Daughters of Mary Congregation and the community she faithfully served. Her commitment and service will be remembered with deep gratitude.
The Kerala Catholic Students League (KCSL) of the Thiruvananthapuram Major Archdiocese held a momentous event at the Pattom Samannwaya Pastoral Centre, where the 2024 Action Plans were inaugurated, and the Animators’ Gathering was organised. His Beatitude Baselios Cardinal Cleemis Catholicos presided over the inauguration ceremony, officially launching the year’s initiatives for the spiritual growth of Catholic students across the archdiocese.
KCSL President Mr. Biju Thomas chaired the event, which saw the participation of prominent figures, including Rev. Fr. Thomas Kayyalakkal, who oversees missionary activities within the Major Archdiocese, and Rev. Fr. Nelson Valiyaveettil. Other attendees included Mr. Jaymon Ayyaneth, Chairman of KCSL in the Major Archdiocese, along with KCSL office bearers, representatives, and several nuns, all of whom are committed to nurturing the spiritual development of the younger generation.
A Brief History of KCSL
Kerala Catholic Students League (KCSL), founded in 1917, is the first and oldest Catholic students’ organisation in Kerala, with the motto “Faith, Study, and Service.” The league has played a pivotal role in shaping the spiritual lives of Catholic students in both aided and unaided schools across Kerala for over a century.
The journey of KCSL began in 1915 when a group of Malayalee students at St. Joseph’s College, Trichinappally, Tamil Nadu, envisioned an organisation to deepen the faith of Catholic students. This vision was realised in 1917, when Mar Alexander Choolaparampil, then Bishop of Kottayam, officially inaugurated the Malabar Catholic Students Conference (MCSC) at Leo XIII High School, Alappuzha. Over time, the organisation expanded to include college students and evolved into KCSL, with its focus on uniting Catholic students through faith and service.
KCSL’s Mission and Objectives
KCSL strives to shape Catholic students into ideal Christians and responsible Indian citizens by embedding faith, study, and service into their daily lives. The league encourages students to uphold democratic values, commit to religious freedom, promote communal harmony, and actively engage in social issues. Study circles, discussions, seminars, camps, and group prayers help supplement the religious training students receive at school. Through these activities, KCSL fosters leadership and prepares students for service to society, the Church, and the nation.
The Inauguration of the 2024 Action Plan
During the inauguration, Cardinal Cleemis emphasised the importance of faith in shaping young minds, encouraging them to embrace the values of service and compassion, as outlined in KCSL’s long-standing objectives. The new action plans for 2024 will focus on deepening the students’ commitment to their faith while nurturing their talents for the benefit of society.
As the event concluded, the animators and representatives expressed their enthusiasm for the year ahead, looking forward to carrying out the activities that would further strengthen the mission of KCSL.
KCSL’s rich history and enduring impact are a testament to its unwavering commitment to the Catholic faith and the development of strong, morally grounded future leaders. With each passing year, the organisation continues to evolve, serving as a guiding light for students throughout Kerala and beyond.
The Syro Malankara Catholic Church inaugurated a special clergy training programme as part of its Year of the Word initiative, a key event in the Church’s ongoing centenary celebrations. The training was held from July 30 to August 1, 2024, at the Catholicate Centre in Pattom, Kerala, the headquarters of the Church.
The programme was officially inaugurated by His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Abraham Mor Julios, Bishop Emeritus of Muvattupuzha and Chairman of the Year of the Word. His Excellency addressed the gathered clergy, emphasising the transformative power of Scripture in pastoral ministry and the importance of deepening their biblical knowledge.
His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Antony Mor Silvanos, Bishop of the Major Archiepiscopal Curia and coordinator of the centenary celebrations, played a significant role in overseeing the event. Additional contributors included Rev. Fr. Cyril Anand Moroth O.I.C., Secretary of the Synodal Commission for Bible Apostolate, and Rev. Fr. Sebastian Edayath, Jubilee Coordinator. Both priests delivered enriching sessions aimed at enhancing the clergy’s understanding of biblical teachings and their application in pastoral care.
On the final day, August 1, the training concluded with a solemn Holy Qurbono at the tomb of the venerable Archbishop Mor Ivanios, led by His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Antony Mor Silvanos. The Eucharistic celebration was a moment of reflection and spiritual renewal for the priests, connecting them deeply to the roots of their faith and the Church’s mission.
Following the Holy Qurbono, the clergy were addressed by His Beatitude Moran Mor Baselios Cardinal Cleemis, Catholicos of the Syro Malankara Catholic Church. His Beatitude delivered a moving address, urging the priests to take up their scriptural responsibilities with renewed zeal and to guide the faithful towards a life rooted in the Word of God.
The Year of the Word and its Spiritual Importance
The Year of the Word initiative is a pivotal part of the Syro Malankara Catholic Church’s centenary celebrations, aiming to deepen the Church’s relationship with Scripture. This initiative focuses on encouraging both clergy and laity to engage more intimately with the Bible, fostering a spiritually vibrant community.
The clergy training is central to this mission, empowering priests to be more effective leaders and educators in the faith. By enriching their scriptural knowledge, the Church ensures that its spiritual guidance remains rooted in the teachings of the Word.
The ‘Karuthal’ project, organised by the National Service Scheme (NSS) unit of Kadampanad St. Thomas Higher Secondary School, was officially inaugurated by His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Samuel Mor Irenios, Bishop of the Pathanamthitta Diocese of the Syro Malankara Catholic Church. The project is aimed at fostering social responsibility and care for the community.
The inauguration ceremony was presided over by the PTA President, Mr. Binu Samuel, with a warm welcome extended by the school’s Principal, Ms. Manju Varghese. Rev. Fr. Dr. Rinju P. Koshy, the Programme Officer, provided an insightful explanation of the ‘Karuthal’ project and its objectives.
Other dignitaries who spoke at the event included Mr. Harikumar V.S., NSS District Convener of Pathanamthitta, Rev. Fr. Jibil George, Assistant Vicar of St. Thomas Cathedral, Trustee Mr. Sabu Papachan, and Kadampanad Panchayat members Ms. Saramma Cherian and Ms. Shija Krishnan. NSS student leaders, Stephen K. Raju and Ajna S., also shared their thoughts on the project’s mission.
A visit by representatives of the Vatican’s Dicastery for Promoting Christian Unity took place at the headquarters of the Malankara Syrian Catholic Church in Thiruvananthapuram on July 26-27, 2024. The delegation, comprising 11 members, was warmly received by His Beatitude Baselios Cardinal Cleemis, the Catholicos and Major Archbishop of the Syro-Malankara Church, along with His Excellency Bishop Antony Mar Silvanos.
The visit included a detailed ecumenical meeting led by His Beatitude Baselios Cardinal Cleemis and highlighted the ongoing efforts towards Christian unity, one of the main aims of the Vatican’s Dicastery for Promoting Christian Unity. This Vatican body plays a critical role in facilitating dialogue between Christian denominations and supporting initiatives that foster unity between Churches, especially the Eastern Catholic, Orthodox, and Protestant Churches.
The delegation, led by Father Hyacinthe Destivelle OP from the Dicastery, included Fr. Ashwin Fernandes (Ecumenical Relations Secretary of the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church) and Deacon Geo Joseph, both representing the Orthodox tradition. Fr. Destivelle, an experienced member of the Vatican Dicastery, has been involved in various international ecumenical efforts, with a focus on bridging theological differences and encouraging collaboration on issues of faith and doctrine. His involvement in the dialogue with the Eastern Churches has been pivotal.
During the meeting, His Beatitude Baselios Cardinal Cleemis, along with other church leaders, discussed important ecumenical matters and stressed the importance of unity and collaboration between the Malankara Syrian Catholic Church and the global Christian community. The ecumenical dialogue addressed shared theological concerns, pastoral initiatives, and practical ways to collaborate in serving the needs of the faithful.
Rev. Fr. Thomas Madukamoottil, Secretary at the Malankara Syrian Catholic Church Curia, was instrumental in coordinating the logistics and the programme of the delegation’s visit. He ensured that the Vatican officials were given a thorough insight into the spiritual and liturgical life of the Malankara Syrian Catholic community. The Vatican representatives expressed their deep appreciation for the warm hospitality extended to them and praised the Church’s efforts in nurturing Christian values and unity.
The Dicastery for Promoting Christian Unity, formerly known as the Secretariat for Promoting Christian Unity, was founded during the Second Vatican Council in 1960. Its mission is to encourage dialogue with other Christian communities, deepen relationships between the Roman Catholic Church and other Christian denominations, and resolve theological issues that divide Christian Churches. Through this visit, the Vatican’s representatives reaffirmed their commitment to bridgdialogue with the Malankara Syrian Catholic Church, a community known for its ancient liturgical heritage and deep commitment to unity within the broader Christian world.
The two-day visit highlighted the deep historical connection between the Syro-Malankara Church and the Vatican and reinforced the shared vision of both Churches for continued ecumenical collaboration in the future.
The eighth batch of the ongoing priestly formation programme, Hūdōtō, for the clergy of the Syro Malankara Catholic Church was successfully conducted from July 22 to 25, 2024, at the Catholicate Centre, the headquarters of the Church. The programme, focused on providing continuous spiritual and ministerial training to the clergy, saw participation from several priests across the Ecclesiastical Districts.
The training was inaugurated by His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Geevarghese Mor Makarios, Metropolitan and Chairman of the Clergy Commission. His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Antony Mor Silvanos, Bishop of the Major Archiepiscopal Curia and coordinator of the programme, delivered the keynote message during the event.
A notable highlight of the training was the Holy Qurbono celebrated by His Beatitude Moran Mor Baselios Cardinal Cleemis, Catholicos of the Syro Malankara Catholic Church, on July 23 at the Chapel of the Catholicate Centre. His Beatitude addressed the clergy, offering spiritual guidance and encouragement for their pastoral responsibilities.
The arrangements and coordination of the programme were led by Rev. Fr. Thomas Madukamoottil, Secretary at the Curia, and Rev. Fr. Thomas Mukalumpurath, who ensured the smooth execution of the sessions and events.
Hūdōtō, derived from the Syriac word for “guidance,” holds deep spiritual and practical significance for the clergy. It represents a commitment to continuous learning and renewal, allowing priests to deepen their theological understanding and enhance their pastoral abilities. The programme is essential in preparing them to meet the diverse challenges they face in their ministry, ensuring that they remain equipped to serve the Church and its faithful with wisdom and dedication.
The Syro Malankara Catholic Church organised a special gathering for its Saudi Arabian expatriates on July 20, 2024, at the Catholicate Centre in Kerala. The event brought together expatriates from across Saudi Arabia for a day of spiritual reflection, fellowship, and reaffirmation of their connection to the Church.
The day began with the Holy Qurbono (Holy Mass) celebrated by His Beatitude Moran Mor Baselios Cardinal Cleemis, Catholicos of the Syro Malankara Catholic Church. The Mass took place at the tomb of the venerable Archbishop Mor Ivanios, where His Beatitude led the expatriate faithful in prayer and reflection, offering words of encouragement and spiritual wisdom.
Following the liturgical celebration, a public meeting was held at the Catholicate Centre. The gathering was inaugurated by His Excellency Msgr. Aldo Berardi O.SS.T., Apostolic Vicar of Northern Arabia. His Excellency addressed the assembly, highlighting the unique challenges faced by the expatriate community in Saudi Arabia and commending them for their steadfastness in faith amidst difficult circumstances.
Present at the meeting were esteemed members of the Church hierarchy, including His Grace Most Rev. Dr. Thomas Mor Koorilos, Metropolitan Archbishop of Pathanamthitta; His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Samuel Mor Irenios, Bishop of Pathanamthitta; and His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Antony Mor Silvanos, Bishop of the Major Archiepiscopal Curia. Each offered words of support and encouragement, affirming the Church’s unwavering commitment to its diaspora.
Rt. Rev. John Thundiyath Corepiscopo, Coordinator of the Gulf Region, played a pivotal role in organising the event, working closely with clergy and laity to ensure its success. Former vicars and many members of the Malankara Catholic community residing in Saudi Arabia attended, making it a heartening and spiritually uplifting experience.
The event’s coordination and arrangements were led by Rev. Fr. George Thannimoottil, who is in charge of the Syro Malankara Catholic Mission in Saudi Arabia. His dedicated leadership ensured the smooth execution of the day’s activities, enabling the expatriate faithful to feel connected and supported despite being far from home.
This gathering served as a valuable opportunity for the Church’s expatriate community to strengthen their ties with the Church and each other, reinforcing their faith and commitment to living out their Christian identity in their daily lives.
The Syro Malankara Catholic community in Bahrain is rejoicing as they celebrate a significant moment of pride. His Excellency Msgr. Aldo Berardi O.SS.T., Apostolic Vicar of the Northern Vicariate, which covers Bahrain, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar, announced the formation of the Family Ministry within the Apostolic Vicariate of Northern Arabia.
In an announcement that filled the community with joy, His Excellency appointed Rev. Fr. Jacob Kalluvila, the spiritual leader of the Syro Malankara Catholic community in Bahrain and Assistant Parish Priest of Sacred Heart Church, as the first Diocesan Director of the Family Ministry in the Northern Vicariate. Shilu Thomas (Yacoob) will serve alongside him in this important role.
The Syro Malankara Catholic community in Bahrain expressed their heartfelt congratulations and joy for Rev. Fr. Jacob Kalluvila. They united in prayer, asking Almighty God to shower abundant blessings upon him as he undertakes this new responsibility with grace and dedication. May the Family Ministry thrive under his leadership, bringing strength and support to the families in the region.
Thiruvananthapuram, July 14, 2024 – The 44th pilgrimage commemorating the 71st memorial of Venerable Archbishop Mar Ivanios reached its culmination yesterday, with the final mass and prayers scheduled for tomorrow. The pilgrimage began on July 10 from Ranni Perunadu Mundanmala, a place of great significance in Mar Ivanios’ life, and concluded in Thiruvananthapuram, attracting thousands of faithful from across the globe.
Arrival at the Tomb
Upon reaching the doorstep of the tomb, His Beatitude Most Rev. Mar Thattil Raphael, Major Archbishop of the Syro-Malabar Church, placed a shawl on the Vallikurush that started its journey from Mundanmala, followed by His Beatitude Baselios Cardinal Cleemis kissing the cross. The bishops, along with Mar Raphael, then visited the tomb of Mar Ivanios, where they offered their prayers.
Opening the Tomb to Pilgrims
Following this solemn moment, the tomb was opened to the public, allowing the faithful to visit and pay their respects. The bishops then proceeded to the Cathedral for the evening prayers.
Evening Prayer and Procession
The Sandhya Prarthana (evening prayer) began at 6:30 PM. During the prayer, His Beatitude Baselios Cardinal Cleemis expressed gratitude to God for helping the pilgrims endure the elements and acknowledged the dedication of the participants. He emphasized the teachings of Mar Ivanios on spreading the gospel and being the light of the world. Cardinal Cleemis reminded everyone that carrying the candle symbolises their commitment to spreading the word of God. Despite the rain that began during the procession, he encouraged the participants, highlighting their perseverance.
The pilgrimage’s motto this year, inspired by Mar Ivanios’ vision, was to spread the gospel everywhere. His Beatitude shared that when he prayed at the tomb, he was enlightened with the message to be the light of the world, as Jesus said, “I am the light of the world; whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”
Candlelit Procession
This was followed by a candlelit procession (Mezhuthiri Pratheekshanam) that began from the church, passing through the John Paul II gate, the Catholicate Centre, via St. Mary’s School, and culminating at the tomb at the base of the church.
Prayer for Mar Ivanios
The bishops re-entered the tomb chapel, where they offered prayers for Mar Ivanios.
Apostolic Blessing
The bishops, accompanied by His Beatitude Most Rev. Mar Thattil Raphael, then stepped above the tomb chapel to give the apostolic blessing to the tens of thousands of attendees.
Slusho Aman Prayer
While the bishops stood there, the Slusho Aman prayer, meaning “We believe in One God,” was recited. Following the prayer song, all the bishops, along with Mar Raphael, gave the apostolic blessing.
Closing Remarks by His Beatitude Baselios Cardinal Cleemis
In his closing remarks, His Beatitude Baselios Cardinal Cleemis thanked everyone for their participation and resilience, especially in battling the rains. He expressed gratitude to God for the protection over the past five days, despite brief drizzles.
He also extended a special welcome to His Beatitude Most Rev. Mar Thattil Raphael, noting it was his first major event with the Syro-Malankara Church since his enthronement as the Major Archbishop of the Syro-Malabar Church. The crowd responded with applause. Cardinal Cleemis reminded everyone of the official welcome ceremony for His Beatitude Mar Raphael at 7:45 AM tomorrow at the Cathedral, marking the concluding day of the Ormaperunnal.
Bishops in Attendance
The pilgrimage saw the attendance of several Bishops, including:
His Beatitude Most Rev. Mar Thattil Raphael
His Beatitude Moran Mor Baselios Cardinal Cleemis Catholicos
His Grace Most Rev. Dr. Thomas Mar Koorilos
His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Joshua Mar Ignathios
His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Joseph Mar Thomas
His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Vincent Mar Paulos
His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Samuel Mar Irenios
His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Geevarghese Mar Makarios
His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Thomas Mar Eusebius
His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Thomas Mar Anthonios OIC
His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Philipos Mar Stephanos
His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Yoohanon Mar Theodosius
His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Antony Mar Silvanos
His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Mathews Mar Polycarpos
His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Abraham Mar Julios
His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Mathews Mar Pachomios OIC
Padayatra from various regions, including Muvattupuzha, Thiruvalla, Gurgaon, Pune, Marthandam, Parasalla, and the Gulf, joined the pilgrimage, reflecting the widespread devotion to Mar Ivanios’ legacy.
Tomorrow’s Schedule
The final day’s schedule includes the concluding mass and prayers, starting with the official welcome of His Beatitude Most Rev. Mar Thattil Raphael at 7:45 AM at the Cathedral. The event will culminate in a grand Eucharistic celebration and apostolic blessings, commemorating the life and teachings of Venerable Mar Ivanios.
A delegation from the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI), led by its President, His Grace Archbishop Mar Andrews Thazhath, met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi yesterday evening for a 45-minute discussion. The delegation included His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Joseph Mar Thomas, Bishop of Bathery and Vice President of the CBCI, His Grace Archbishop Anil Joseph Thomas Couto, Archbishop of Delhi and Secretary General of the CBCI, and Rev. Dr. Mathew Koyickal, Deputy Secretary General of the CBCI. Suresh Gopi, Member of Parliament from Thrissur and Union Minister of State, was also present during the meeting.
During the discussion, the CBCI delegation urged the Prime Minister to take effective steps to restore peace in Manipur and expedite the visit of His Holiness Pope Francis to India. Prime Minister Modi assured the delegation that the Central Government is committed to both facilitating the Pope’s visit and restoring peace in Manipur.
Additionally, the CBCI delegation raised concerns over the discrimination faced by Dalit and tribal Christians, as well as the increasing violence against Christian communities and institutions across the country. They called for immediate government action to address these issues.
In a press conference following the meeting, CBCI leaders shared that Prime Minister Modi reaffirmed the government’s commitment to achieving peace in Manipur and ensuring the Pope’s visit becomes a reality soon.
