71st Memorial of Venerable Archbishop Mar Ivanios and 44th Pilgrimage Commences Today

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71st Memorial of Venerable Archbishop Mar Ivanios and 44th Pilgrimage Commences Today

Pathanamthitta: In commemoration of the 71st death anniversary of the Venerable Archbishop Geevarghese Mar Ivanios, the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church is embarking on a significant pilgrimage from Pathanamthitta to Pattom, Trivandrum. This marks the first such commemoration since Archbishop Mar Ivanios was declared venerable. Organised by the Malankara Catholic Youth Movement (MCYM), the pilgrimage begins on July 10 and concludes on July 14.

Pathanamthitta Pilgrimage Itinerary

  • Day 1 (July 10):
    • 6:30 AM: Holy Qurbana and incense prayer at Kurishumala Church, Pathanamthitta.
    • Visits include Mar Ivanios Centre in Ranni Perunad, Eraviperur, Vennikulam, and Muthoor.
  • Day 2 (July 11):
    • 6:00 AM: Departure from Ranni Perunad.
    • Stops at Maramon, Elanthoor, Cheekanal, Omallur, Kaipattor, Thatta, Anandapally, and various churches.
    • Merge with the Thiruvalla pilgrimage group.
  • Day 3-4 (July 12-13):
    • Continue visiting various Malankara Syrian Catholic Churches.
    • Engage in prayers and community services along the way.
  • Day 5 (July 14):
    • Arrival at Pattom St. Mary’s Major Archdiocesan Cathedral Church.
    • 5:30 PM: Final prayers and concluding ceremony.

Ranni Perunadu holds historical significance as it was the site where Mar Ivanios established the first ashram in Malankara on August 15, 1919, named “Bethany” after a contemplative biblical location, became a place of pilgrimage and spiritual retreats. It was also envisioned as a shelter for the poor and marginalized, alongside a house for orphans.

Thiruvalla Pilgrimage Itinerary

  • Day 1 (July 10):
    • 8:00 AM: Holy Qurbana and incense prayer at St. John’s Metropolitan Cathedral, Thiruvalla.
    • Stops include Merygiri Aramana, Cherupushpagiri Aramana, Bathany, Thiruvalla Bodhana Social Service Society, Holy Spirit Matham, Regional Centre Thukalassery, and Bethany Convent Thirumoolapuram.
    • Conclude at Pullad St. Anthony’s Malankara Syrian Catholic Church.
  • Day 2 (July 11):
    • 6:00 AM: Departure from Pullad.
    • Visits to Maramon, Elanthoor, Cheekanal, Omallur, Kaipattor, Thatta, Anandapally.
    • Merge with the Ranni Perunad pilgrimage group.
  • Day 3-4 (July 12-13):
    • Continue through significant churches, engaging in prayers and community activities.
  • Day 5 (July 14):
    • Arrival at Pattom St. Mary’s Major Archdiocesan Cathedral Church.
    • 5:30 PM: Final prayers and concluding ceremony.

Additional Pilgrimages

  • Mavelikara: Starting from Mar Ivanios’s birthplace on July 9, inaugurated by Bishop Joshua Mar Ignathios.
  • Muvattupuzha: Commences on July 10, inaugurated by Bishop Yoohanon Mar Theodosius, passes through Kottayam and Changanacherry, merging with the Thiruvalla group on July 11.
  • Marthandam: Begins on July 13, led by Bishop Vincent Mar Paulos.
  • Parassala: Also begins on July 13, led by Bishop Thomas Mar Eusebius.

Significance of Venerable Title: Being declared venerable by the Catholic Church is a significant recognition, marking a person’s life of heroic virtue. This declaration by the Vatican acknowledges Mar Ivanios’s profound impact on the church and his exemplary Christian life. The faithful now seek his intercession and celebrate his legacy with greater fervor.

Additional Events and Celebrations

Cardinal Cleemis’ Address: Cardinal Baselios Mar Cleemis Catholicos delivered a profound message at the commencement of the commemoration events at Pattom St. Mary’s Cathedral on 1st July 2024. He emphasized that the life of Mar Ivanios is an inspiration and model for relying on and clinging to God, especially in times of moral upheaval.

Daily Prayers and Services: From July 10 to 15, there will be evening prayers and Qurbana, followed by incense prayers at the tomb of Mar Ivanios. Continuous prayers will be held from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM led by various religious communities, organisations, and institutions.

Candlelight Procession: On the evening of July 14, a candlelight procession with thousands of pilgrims will take place after the evening prayers.

Grand Holy Mass: On the concluding day, July 15, Cardinal Baselios Mar Cleemis Catholicos will lead the grand Holy Mass. Major Archbishop Mar Raphael Thattil of the Syro-Malabar Church will be the chief guest for this year’s commemoration.

This pilgrimage and the associated events serve not only as a spiritual journey but also as a celebration of the life and legacy of Mar Ivanios, uniting the faithful in prayer and reflection on his exemplary life and dedication to God and the Church.

Rev. Fr. Abraham Joseph Kanneeleth Passes Away at 87

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Rev. Fr. Abraham Joseph Kanneeleth Passes Away at 87

Thiruvananthapuram:

The Syro-Malankara Catholic Church mourns the loss of Fr. Abraham Joseph Kanneeleth, who passed away on 9th July 2024 at the age of 87. Fr. Abraham, a devoted priest of the Thiruvananthapuram Major Archdiocese, was known for his unwavering faith and dedication to the church and its community.

Fr. Abraham was born in 1936 to Mathai and Mariamma in the small village of Kanneeleth. He attended his early schooling at St. John’s School in Anchal. It was here that his calling to serve the Church began to take shape. After completing his seminary education, he was ordained on May 23, 1968, marking the start of a devoted journey in the priesthood.

His years in Anchal were particularly impactful. As the parish priest at St. George’s Church, he was instrumental in initiating several community upliftment programs. He focused on education, establishing scholarships for underprivileged students and setting up vocational training centers to empower local youth. His efforts in Anchal left a lasting legacy, with many remembering him as a guiding light who brought about significant positive changes in their lives.

Throughout his life, Fr. Abraham was known for his simplicity, humility, and profound spirituality. His leadership was marked by a focus on community building and nurturing faith among parishioners. He was particularly instrumental in supporting the educational pursuits of underprivileged children, fostering a spirit of learning and growth.

Funeral Services

The funeral services will take place as follows:

July 10, 2024:

  • 3:00 PM: Gathering at St. John’s Kollamkavu Residence.
  • 4:00 PM: Procession to the Cathedral.
  • 4:30 PM: Evening prayer led by Archbishop Thomas Mar Koorilos.
  • 5:30 PM: Holy Mass celebrated by Bishop Joseph Mar Thomas.
  • 6:30 PM: Night vigil prayer by Bishop Samuel Mar Irenios.
  • 9:00 PM: Lamentation prayer by Bishop Yoohanon Mar Chrysostom.
  • 10:30 PM: Final prayers by Bishop Abraham Mar Julios.

July 11, 2024:

  • 7:30 AM: Morning prayer at the Sacred Heart Malankara Catholic Church, Mudapuram.
  • 9:00 AM: Holy Mass led by Archbishop Thomas Mar Koorilos.
  • 10:00 AM: Procession to St. Mary’s Malankara Catholic Church, Kalliyara.
  • 10:30 AM: Final rites and committal service led by Major Archbishop Baselios Cardinal Cleemis Catholicos.

Attendees

The services will be attended by prominent Church leaders including:

  • Major Archbishop Baselios Cardinal Cleemis Catholicos
  • Archbishop Thomas Mar Koorilos
  • Bishop Joseph Mar Thomas
  • Bishop Samuel Mar Irenios
  • Bishop Yoohanon Mar Chrysostom
  • Bishop Abraham Mar Julios

Rev. Fr. Abraham’s lifetime of service and spiritual guidance has left an indelible mark on the community. His unwavering faith and compassion will be fondly remembered and deeply missed by the clergy and laity alike.

Mar Thoma Sleeha Feast Celebrated in Germany

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Mar Thoma Sleeha Feast Celebrated in Germany

Bonn – The Malankara Syrian Catholic community in Bonn celebrated the Mar Thoma Sleeha Feast with great devotion and enthusiasm at the St. Thomas Community, Heilig-Geist Church, Bonn.

Historical Significance and Community Background

The origins of the Malankara Syrian Catholic community in Germany trace back to the early 1960s when the Eucharistic Congress in Munich became a pivotal event. With visionary support from German bishops, efforts were made to ensure medical and caregiving services for the aging generation. This led to the arrival of young women from India, facilitated by Archbishop Benedict Mar Gregorios and Bishop Zachariah Mar Athanasios. In 1963, Syro-Malankara priests arrived in Königstein/Taunus near Frankfurt, marking the beginning of the Syro-Malankara Catholic presence in Germany. Over the years, nuns and priests also made their way to Germany, contributing significantly to the community’s growth.

Celebrations in Bonn

The celebrations commenced on Saturday, July 6, at 5 PM with the flag hoisting ceremony and evening prayers. The main event took place on Sunday, July 7, with a grand reception for His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Geevarghese Mar Makarios, Bishop of Puthur Eparchy, followed by the Holy Qurbono (Holy Mass) and a procession (Rasa). The event also included the annual gatherings of various devotional organizations, culminating in a feast (Sneha Virunnu).

The ceremonies were led by Vicar Fr. Dr. Joseph Chelamparambath and committee members, ensuring a spiritually enriching experience for all attendees.

Malankara Syrian Catholic Life in Germany

The community in Germany celebrated 50 years of Malankara Syrian Catholic life in 2014, emphasizing the strong ties between the Malankara and German churches since the Second Vatican Council. Archbishop Mar Gregorios and Bishop Mar Athanasios established close relationships with members of the German episcopate and priests studying in Rome, leading to a significant milestone with Mar Gregorios’s participation in the Eucharistic World Congress in Munich in 1960. This event paved the way for sending theological students to Königstein and bringing young women for nursing training to various parts of Germany.

The first groups faced considerable challenges, including homesickness, language barriers, and cultural integration. However, social and pastoral care was provided from the beginning, with visits from Indian bishops and priests offering spiritual support. The establishment of centres in Bonn/Köln, Frankfurt/Mainz, Heidelberg/Stuttgart, Herne/Dortmund, and Krefeld/Düsseldorf ensured that the community remained closely knit, celebrating liturgies and sacraments in their Eastern tradition.

Current Scenario

Today, the Syro-Malankara Catholic community in Germany is well-integrated, with around 300 families spread across five main centres. The community continues to thrive with regular monthly services and special celebrations, reflecting their rich heritage and strong faith. The support from the German Bishops’ Conference and local parishes has been instrumental in maintaining the spiritual and cultural identity of the Malankara Syrian Catholics in Germany.

The Mar Thoma Sleeha Feast in Bonn stands as a witness to the enduring faith and vibrant community life of the Malankara Syrian Catholics in Germany, celebrating their heritage while contributing meaningfully to the broader Catholic Church.

A Celebration of Faith and Fellowship: Feast Day at Sts. Peter & Paul Syro-Malankara Catholic Church, Niagara

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A Celebration of Faith and Fellowship: Feast Day at Sts. Peter & Paul Syro-Malankara Catholic Church, Niagara

The annual Feast Day celebrations of Sts. Peter & Paul Syro-Malankara Catholic Church, Niagara, on July 5th and 6th, 2024, stood as a profound expression of faith, unity, and community spirit. Graced by the presence of His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Philipos Mor Stephanos, the Eparchial Bishop of St Mary, Queen of Peace, USA & Canada, the event was a spiritual and cultural beacon for all who attended.

Day One: A Cultural Prelude

The celebrations began on July 5th, with an air of anticipation and reverence. The Evening Prayer and Flag Hoisting at 6:30 PM marked the official start of the festivities, symbolising the parish’s deep-rooted devotion and heritage.

At 7:30 PM, the parish hall came alive with a vibrant Cultural Evening, where members showcased their talents and celebrated their rich traditions. The gathering reflected the joyful spirit of the parish community, with heartfelt performances and expressions of gratitude for God’s blessings. Distinguished guests, including Rev. Fr. Jobin Thomas, Rev. Fr. Varghese Anchanithadathil, and Brother Christopher Thomas, enriched the evening with their presence and words of encouragement.

Day Two: Spiritual Enrichment and Holy Communion

The celebrations reached their spiritual zenith on July 6th. The day began at 5:30 PM with a Liturgical Reception for His Excellency Mor Stephanos, warmly welcomed by the faithful amidst prayers and hymns that filled the church with an atmosphere of reverence and joy.

The highlight of the celebrations was the Holy Qurbono, the sacred liturgy central to the Syro-Malankara Catholic tradition, celebrated by Mor Stephanos. This service became a moment of deep communion, fostering unity among the parishioners and strengthening their faith.

Adding to the significance of the day, seven young members of the community received their Solemn Reception of Holy Communion, marking a pivotal milestone in their spiritual journey. The sight of these children taking this sacred step was a testament to the vibrant faith and dedication of the parish in nurturing its younger generation.

The Feast Day also welcomed the participation of Rev. Fr. Stephen Joseph Bruzzese, Pastor of St. Denis Roman Catholic Church, which currently serves as the Malankara community’s place of worship, and Rev. Fr. Cherian Paulose of St. Kauma Jacobite Church, Niagara Falls. Their presence highlighted the spirit of ecumenism and collaboration that binds Christian communities together.

A Community United in Gratitude

Throughout the two-day celebrations, the community of Sts. Peter & Paul Syro-Malankara Catholic Church exemplified a profound commitment to their faith and fellowship. The inspiring presence and guidance of His Excellency Mor Stephanos added a deeper spiritual dimension to the event, leaving a lasting impression on all participants.

In closing, Rev. Fr. Aji Varghese, the parish’s Vicar, expressed heartfelt gratitude on behalf of the community to His Excellency Mor Stephanos, the esteemed guests, and all contributors who worked tirelessly to make this Feast Day celebration a meaningful and spiritually enriching experience.

This year’s Feast Day was not merely a commemoration but a living expression of the Church’s mission to bring people closer to God and to one another, embodying the timeless values of faith, love, and service.

A New Chapter of Faith: St. Thomas Syro-Malankara Catholic Parish Acquires New Church in London, Canada

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A New Chapter of Faith: St. Thomas Syro-Malankara Catholic Parish Acquires New Church in London, Canada

The St. Thomas Syro-Malankara Catholic Parish in London, Canada, celebrated a momentous milestone with the acquisition of a new church on July 3, 2024. Located at 1669 Richmond Street, Dorchester, Ontario, N0L 1G4, this new place of worship heralds a transformative chapter in the parish’s mission of faith, community, and service.

A Vision Fulfilled

Guided by the unwavering spiritual leadership of His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Philipos Mor Stephanos, Eparchial Bishop of St Mary, Queen of Peace, USA & Canada, and the dedicated pastoral care of Rev. Fr. Abraham Lukose, this milestone reflects years of prayer, planning, and collective effort. Parishioners, clergy, and community members came together in faith and determination to achieve this goal, expressing profound gratitude for this blessing.

A Spiritual Haven in Dorchester, Ontario

The newly acquired church is situated in Dorchester, a charming community within the larger region of Middlesex County. Known for its serene landscapes and welcoming residents, Dorchester provides the perfect backdrop for this spiritual sanctuary. The church’s strategic location, with ample space for worship and community activities, enhances the parish’s ability to cater to its growing congregation while extending outreach to the broader community.

Celebrating the Acquisition

To honour this significant achievement, a special Holy Qurbono was celebrated in the Parish Hall of the newly acquired church. His Excellency Mor Stephanos, joined by Rev. Fr. Aji Varghese and Rev. Fr. Abraham Lukose, led the service, which was marked by heartfelt prayers and hymns. The congregation’s unity and joy were palpable as they gathered in their new spiritual home, which symbolises not just a physical structure but a shared commitment to faith and fellowship.

Looking Ahead: Blessing and Renovation

With the acquisition complete, the parish is now focused on preparations for the blessing of the church and the renovated sanctuary, an event eagerly anticipated by parishioners and well-wishers. While the exact date remains to be announced, the parish extends an open invitation to all to join this moment of spiritual significance.

A Place for Unity and Service

The new church offers more than just a dedicated space for worship; it embodies the parish’s mission to foster unity, faith, and service. The St. Thomas Syro-Malankara Catholic Parish has always been a pillar of support and spiritual guidance for its members. This new church is a testament to the shared vision and unwavering faith of its community.

A Message of Gratitude

The parish expresses its sincere appreciation to all who contributed to this remarkable achievement—whether through prayers, financial support, or volunteer efforts. Their dedication has ensured that the vision of a new spiritual home has become a reality.

As the St. Thomas Syro-Malankara Catholic Parish embarks on this new chapter, the community stands united in faith, ready to continue its journey of spiritual growth and service in the heart of Dorchester. May this new church be a beacon of hope and faith for generations to come.

MCA Tiruvalla Collects and Ships Clothes to Punjab Mission

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MCA Tiruvalla Collects and Ships Clothes to Punjab Mission

Tiruvalla: The MCA Tiruvalla region has successfully packed and prepared approximately 500 kilograms of assorted clothing for shipment to the Mullampur Mission in Punjab. These clothes, collected from various parishes, were sorted, cleaned, and packed into boxes at the Changanassery Church. The units involved in this effort included Thirumoolapuram, Vengal, and Changanassery, with special recognition given to Fr. Mathew Vazhayil for his leadership. The boxes will be transported to Punjab via train from Kollam.

This initiative showcases the dedication and collaborative spirit of the MCA members, emphasizing their commitment to supporting missions and aiding those in need across different regions.

Commemoration Journey of Venerable Mar Ivanios Begins in Kuwait

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Commemoration Journey of Venerable Mar Ivanios Begins in Kuwait

In honour of the 71st memorial anniversary of the revered Venerable Archbishop Mar Ivanios, the architect of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church’s reunion, the MCYM has initiated a memorial journey in Kuwait. The journey commenced on 1st July 2024 at the Ahmadi Church.

The ceremony began with a Holy Qurbana and incense prayer, followed by the blessing of the Vallikurishu. MCYM President Mr. Jilto James received the blessed cross, Area Coordinator Mr. Lijo Kunjumon Thomas received the photograph of Venerable Mar Ivanios, and Mrs. Jency Joseph received the MCYM flag.

After the reception at Ahmadi Church, the memorial journey proceeded around the church premises and concluded with a communal meal. The first day’s commemoration was marked with heartfelt devotion and unity.

Significance of the Memorial Journey

This journey symbolises the deep respect and remembrance of Venerable Mar Ivanios, a figure of profound spiritual and historical significance for the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church. His contributions to the Church and the community continue to inspire and guide the faithful.

MCYM-KMRM’s Role

The Malankara Catholic Youth Movement (MCYM) in Kuwait, in collaboration with the Kuwait Malankara Rite Movement (KMRM), has been instrumental in organizing this event, ensuring that the legacy of Mar Ivanios remains vibrant and celebrated among the Malankara Catholic community in Kuwait.

About Mar Ivanios

Venerable Mar Ivanios, the visionary behind the Reunion Movement, was instrumental in bringing the Malankara Syrian community into full communion with the Catholic Church. His efforts have left an indelible mark on the Church’s history, fostering unity and spiritual growth among its members.

Looking Forward

The MCYM plans to continue the memorial journey across various locations, engaging more community members in this spiritual commemoration. The journey not only honours the memory of Mar Ivanios but also strengthens the bonds within the Malankara Catholic community, reaffirming their faith and commitment to the Church’s mission.

Syrian Churches as Co-Witnesses of the Gospel: Major Archbishop Mar Raphael Thattil

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Syrian Churches as Co-Witnesses of the Gospel: Major Archbishop Mar Raphael Thattil

In an ecumenical event, Major Archbishop Mar Raphael Thattil, Head of the Syro-Malabar Church, emphasized the duty of all Syrian churches in Kerala to witness the Gospel collectively. Despite historical divisions since 1653, these churches have a shared responsibility to live and proclaim the Gospel, transforming them into co-witnesses of evangelization. Archbishop Thattil stressed that our churches should be vibrant with the Gospel’s spirit rather than becoming mere cultic or maintenance-oriented institutions.

The event, organized by the Syro-Malabar Synodal Commission for Ecumenism and the Changanacherry Archdiocese Ecumenical Department, commemorated the martyrdom of St. Thomas the Apostle on July 1, 2024, at Lourdes Forane Church, Kottayam. It marked the first such commemoration after Venerable Mar Ivanios was declared venerable, highlighting his contributions to the Reunion Movement and Bethany Ashram.

Highlights of the Event

Most Rev. Dr. Theodosius Mar Thoma Metropolitan of the Mar Thoma Syrian Church inaugurated the conference, expressing pride in the ancient Christian heritage shared by these churches. Archbishop Mar Joseph Perumthottam, Chairman of the Syro-Malabar Ecumenical Commission, delivered the keynote address, highlighting the historical significance and the need for unity among the surviving Syrian churches.

Bishop Dr. Samuel Mar Irenios, Chairman of the KCBC Ecumenical Commission, delivered a blessing speech, underscoring the global importance of preserving the legacy of St. Thomas.

The public discussion moderated by Bishop Dr. Joshua Mar Ignathios, Chairman of the CBCI Ecumenical Commission, focused on “The Relevance of St. Thomas Heritage and the Transition of Churches in the Era of Globalization.” Key participants included representatives from the Jacobite, Orthodox, Mar Thoma, Assyrian, and CSI churches.

Notable attendees included:

  • Kottayam Knanaya Archbishop Mar Mathew Moolakkattu
  • Kanjirappally Bishop Mar Jose Pulickal
  • Muvattupuzha Diocese Head Most Rev. Dr. Yoohanon Mar Theodosius
  • Mar Thoma Church Kottayam-Cochin Diocese Head Right Rev. Dr. Thomas Mar Timotheos
  • Knanaya Malankara Catholic Division Bishop Most Rev. Dr. Gheevarghese Mar Aprem
  • Most Rev. Mor Kuriakose Mar Severios from the Chingavanam Knanaya Church

Clergy, lay representatives, and theologians from various churches participated in the discussions, fostering ecumenical unity and cooperation.

Proposals and Resolutions

Rev. Fr. Dr. V.S. Varghese, Principal of MD Seminary, presented a proposal for the release of the Justice J.B. Koshy Commission Report by the government. Retired Professor Dr. T.T. Michael from Deva Matha College, Kuravilangad, proposed declaring July 3 a state holiday. The event concluded with a prayer service led by Fr. Philip Nelpuraparambil, Vicar of Lourdes Forane Church, Kottayam.

Organizing Committee

The organizing committee, led by the Archdiocese officials and members of the Syro-Malabar Ecumenical Commission, included:

  • Very Rev. Fr. Varghese Thanamavunkal, Archdiocese Syncellus
  • Fr. Cheriyan Karikompil, Archdiocese Procurator
  • Fr. Cherian Karukaparambil, Secretary, Syro-Malabar Ecumenical Commission
  • Fr. James Kokkavayalil, Director, Archdiocese Ecumenism Department
  • Committee members Sebastian Pathil, Baby Vattakkara, Tom Joseph Araykkaparambil, Binu Velliyanadan, Tessy Varghese, and Susan Kuriakose

The Lourdes Forane Church representatives also played a crucial role in facilitating the event.

Doctors’ Day Celebrated at Pushpagiri Medical College Hospital

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Doctors’ Day Celebrated at Pushpagiri Medical College Hospital

Thiruvalla: On July 1, 2024, Pushpagiri Medical College Hospital celebrated National Doctors’ Day with great enthusiasm. The event took place at the Pushpagiri Senate Hall, chaired by Rev. Fr. Biju Varghese, CEO of the Pushpagiri Group of Institutions. The chief guest, Dr. Varghese Punnoose, Principal of Kottayam Medical College, was honoured during the occasion.

His Grace Thomas Mar Koorilos, the patron of Pushpagiri and the Metropolitan of the Archdiocese of Thiruvalla, delivered the keynote address. Fr. George Valiyaparambil, Academic Director, extended a warm welcome. The event also featured felicitations for distinguished individuals in the medical and arts fields, showcasing their creations. Chief Nursing Officer Suvarna S. Panicker and Hospital Administrator Fr. Mathew Thundiyil conveyed their greetings.

Additionally, the winners of a raffle conducted by Thiruvalla Joy Alukkas Group were awarded prizes. The celebration highlighted the invaluable contributions of doctors and their service to society.

The Canadian Syro-Malankara Catholic Family Conference in Calgary

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The Canadian Syro-Malankara Catholic Family Conference in Calgary

The Canadian Syro-Malankara Catholic Family Conference, hosted in Calgary, Alberta, on June 29 and 30, 2024, brought together Syro-Malankara Catholic families from across Canada for an event filled with faith, reflection, and community spirit. The conference marked a significant step in fostering unity and spiritual growth within the diaspora community.

A Welcoming Start

The conference began on June 29 with a warm reception as families arrived, registering with enthusiasm and participating in engaging ice-breaking activities. This set the stage for meaningful interactions and connections throughout the event.

Participants tested their knowledge in a quiz competition that delved into the life of Servant of God Mar Ivanios, Biblical teachings, and the history of the Catholic Church. Adding to the vibrancy of the day was a liturgical singing competition, where families showcased their musical talents, uplifting the community with melodies steeped in tradition.

A Grand Inauguration

The highlight of the first day was the inauguration ceremony, graced by His Excellency Bishop William McGrattan, Bishop of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Calgary, and His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Philipos Mor Stephanos, Eparchial Bishop of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Eparchy of St Mary, Queen of Peace, USA & Canada. Their presence and reflections underscored the conference’s emphasis on unity and faith.

The day concluded with evening prayer, followed by a communal dinner and cultural program. This celebration of Syro-Malankara traditions and heritage left participants with cherished memories of togetherness and joy.

Exploring Challenges and Strengthening Bonds

On June 30, the second day began with a reflective morning prayer and a wholesome breakfast. A series of workshops and panel discussions offered participants a platform to explore challenges faced by Syro-Malankara families in Canada, including cultural integration, family dynamics, and spiritual growth. These sessions fostered open dialogue and mutual support, enriching the community’s shared journey.

Sacred Moments and Farewell

The conference culminated with the Holy Qurbono, celebrated in communion with families gathered in prayer. This sacred moment reinforced the faith and unity that binds the Syro-Malankara Catholic community.

In the valedictory session, participants received souvenirs, and prizes were distributed to recognize contributions and achievements during the conference. Attendees departed with renewed spirit and strengthened bonds, ready to continue their faith-filled journey within the Syro-Malankara community.

Acknowledgements

The success of the conference was a testament to the dedicated efforts of many. Special recognition goes to Rev. Fr. Daiju Kuriakose, Coordinator of the Syro-Malankara Catholics in Canada, and Rev. Fr. Ajeesh Cherivuparambil Komalachan, Pastor of St. Jude Syro-Malankara Catholic Church, whose parish hosted this inaugural event.

The conference was further enriched by the presence of Rev. Fr. Josephin Raj (Edmonton) and Rev. Fr. Varughese Anchanithadathil (Toronto), whose contributions added depth and grace to the proceedings.

This inaugural family conference has set a strong foundation for future gatherings, celebrating the shared faith and cultural heritage of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church in Canada. It highlighted the power of community in nurturing faith, building relationships, and addressing the unique challenges of a diaspora Church.

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