Rev. Fr. Martin Joseph Puthenveedu (43) Passes Away

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Rev. Fr. Martin Joseph Puthenveedu (43) Passes Away

Rev. Fr. Martin Joseph Puthenveedu of the Pathanamthitta Diocese passed away on June 30, 2024, at the age of 43. Known for his tall stature and pleasant demeanor, Fr. Martin was a beloved figure who touched many lives. Born on May 7, 1980, in Kummannoor, Konni, he was the younger son of P. Joseph and Lillykutty. He received his early education at PSVPM HSS School, Ayravan, and completed his pre-degree studies at Trinity College, Pathanamthitta. In June 1999, he entered St. Aloysius Minor Seminary, Pattom, for priestly formation.

Fr. Martin completed his philosophical and theological studies at St. Mary’s Malankara Major Seminary, Trivandrum, and was ordained by Moran Mor Baselios Cardinal Cleemis Catholicos on April 2, 2008. He served in various parishes, including Panta, Kudappanamoodu, Vazhichal, and Kuttamala. When the Pathanamthitta Diocese was established, he continued his ministry in Kakkattoor and Kalleelithottam parishes and later in Manneera and Elimullumplackal parishes.

In 2016, Fr. Martin was appointed as the vicar of Lakkoor parish and director of St. Mary’s Karunya bhavan, a center for the destitute and mentally ill. He also brought the Snehagiri Society Sisters to the diocese for service. He served as the spiritual advisor for the Vincent de Paul Society in the diocese, actively supporting the poor.

In 2019, driven by a desire to serve in mission areas, he moved to the Parassala Diocese and served as vicar of Aruvikkuzhi and Anakkode parishes, and as the director of Boys Home in Kattakkada. However, due to heart problems, he returned to Pathanamthitta in 2020 and resided at the clergy home while receiving treatment.

Fr. Martin was known for his unwavering dedication and love for the poor and destitute. His colleagues remember him as a compassionate and devoted priest who was always ready to help. Despite his health struggles, he remained active in his ministry, providing support to fellow priests and parishioners.

He passed away at Pushpagiri Medical College Hospital and his funeral will be held on July 2, at St. Mary’s Malankara Syrian Catholic Church, Mulanthara, led by Moran Mor Baselios Cardinal Cleemis Catholicos and other bishops.

Fr. Martin’s legacy of love, service, and dedication to his faith and community will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.

– Excerpts by Fr Sebastian John Kizhakkethil

Semi-Annual Senate of MCYM Mavelikkara Diocese

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Semi-Annual Senate of MCYM Mavelikkara Diocese

The semi-annual Senate meeting of the MCYM Mavelikkara Diocese took place on June 30, 2024, at Mar Baselios School, Kaithakkode, hosted by the Puthoor Ecclesiastical District. Animator Rev. Sister Niseema SIC raised the flag, marking the beginning of the meeting. The Senate was presided over by MCYM Mavelikkara Diocese President Roshan Varghese, with General Secretary Jobin G. John delivering the welcome address.

Very Rev. Fr. Cherian Mayickal, Vicar of the Puthoor Ecclesiastical District, inaugurated the Senate. The gathering was blessed with the presence of several revered clergy, including Rev. Fr. John A, Rev. Fr. John Kaduvinkal, Rev. Fr. Joseph Sadanam, Rev. Fr. John Puthenpurackal, Rev. Fr. Mathew Valiyaparambil, and Rev. Fr. Thomas Sankarathil. Reports and accounts from the six ecclesiastical districts and the diocesan committee were presented and discussed.

Following the discussions and resolution presentations, Rosham Ponnachan from the Kadampanad Ecclesiastical District was elected as the new secretary. The meeting concluded with a vote of thanks from MCYM Mavelikkara Diocese Treasurer Alvin Emmanuel, followed by a concluding blessing from Rev. Fr. John A.

Acknowledgements

Special thanks to Very Rev. Fr. Cherian Mayickal for inaugurating the Senate, the esteemed clergy for their presence, the Puthoor Ecclesiastical District for hosting, the authorities of Mar Baselios School, Kaithakkode, and the unit of Kaithakkode for the venue arrangements. Gratitude also extends to the district office bearers from the six ecclesiastical districts for their participation and support.

Sister Justin S.I.C. (87) Passes Away

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Sister Justin S.I.C. (87) Passes Away

Sister Justin S.I.C., a revered member of the Bethany Sisters of the Imitation of Christ Congregation in the Thirumoolapuram Province, passed away on June 28, 2024, at the age of 87. The funeral services will be held on June 30, 2024, at the Thirumoolapuram Provincial House Cemetery. The ceremony will be officiated by the Bishop of the Tiruvalla Archdiocese, His Excellency Thomas Mar Koorilos. Sister Justin’s life was a testament to her unwavering faith and dedication to her community, leaving behind a legacy of service and devotion.

MCYM Global Offers Condolence Prayers for Kuwait Fire Victims

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MCYM Global Offers Condolence Prayers for Kuwait Fire Victims

Thiruvananthapuram: In a heartfelt tribute, the Global MCYM (Malankara Catholic Youth Movement) held a condolence prayer and silent vigil for the expatriates who lost their lives in a tragic fire accident in Kuwait. The event took place on June 29 in front of St. Mary’s Cathedral, Pattom.

President Mr. Monu Joseph delivered the introductory speech. Msgr. Very Rev. Fr. Thomas Kayyalakkal, Vicar General of the Thiruvananthapuram Major Archdiocese and former Director of Global MCYM, led the condolence message and prayers.

Key attendees included:

  • Global Director Fr. Dr. Prabheesh George
  • Thiruvananthapuram Major Archdiocese Director Fr. Joseph Thotathil Kadayil
  • Assistant Director Fr. Aloysius Thekedathil
  • Pathanamthitta Diocese Director Job Patalil
  • Thiruvananthapuram Major Archdiocese President Sijo
  • Pathanamthitta Diocese President Bibin Abraham
  • Rev. Sr. Divya Jose DM
  • Rev. Sr. Joan SIC
  • Global MCYM Treasurer Mr. Ranju Raju
  • Vice President Aksa Rajan

Many youth leaders from both dioceses also participated, expressing their solidarity and support for the victims’ families. The gathering underscored the importance of unity and collective grief in the face of such tragedies, reflecting the compassion and commitment of the MCYM community towards its members globally.

Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops Hosts 2024 Triennial Forum on Dialogues: Syro-Malankara Representation Highlights Commitment to Unity

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Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops Hosts 2024 Triennial Forum on Dialogues: Syro-Malankara Representation Highlights Commitment to Unity

The Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops (CCCB) held its highly anticipated Triennial Forum on Dialogues from June 27-29, 2024, at St. Augustine’s Seminary in Scarborough, Ontario. Guided by the theme “From Coast to Coast” (Psalm 72:8), the forum provided a platform for meaningful ecumenical and interfaith dialogue, fostering collaboration and understanding among diverse Catholic communities across Canada.

A Dynamic Start

Preparations for the forum began on June 26, as early arrivals participated in pre-forum meetings that laid the foundation for three days of spirited discussions. The schedule included liturgical services, formation sessions, and communal meals, fostering both intellectual and spiritual engagement.

With representatives from various Catholic dioceses and eparchies across Canada, the forum delved into critical issues such as:

  • The evolving nature of interchurch dialogues.
  • Developing local and national ecumenical strategies.
  • Exploring ways to enhance interfaith relations.

Each session offered a unique opportunity for participants to exchange insights, reflect on shared challenges, and explore strategies to build unity and peace within the Catholic community and beyond.

Syro-Malankara Catholic Presence

The St. Mary Queen of Peace Syro-Malankara Catholic Eparchy was meaningfully represented by Fr. Jobin Thomas and Brother Christopher Thomas. Their active participation reflected the Eparchy’s enduring commitment to fostering ecumenical and interfaith cooperation in Canada.

One of the highlights of the forum was the Lilyo (Compline) service in the West Syriac Rite, conducted on Friday evening under the leadership of His Excellency Paul Antoine Nassif, the Syriac Catholic Exarch of Canada. Fr. Jobin Thomas and Brother Christopher Thomas played pivotal roles in this deeply spiritual service, bringing a touch of the Syro-Malankara Catholic tradition to the gathering.

Charting a Path Forward

The forum concluded on June 29 with a thought-provoking round table discussion, where participants synthesised key insights and crafted actionable strategies for advancing ecumenical and interfaith efforts. A solemn Mass brought the forum to a close, uniting participants in prayerful solidarity and shared purpose.

A Vision for Unity

The 2024 CCCB Triennial Forum on Dialogues was a resounding affirmation of the Canadian Catholic Church’s dedication to promoting ecumenical collaboration. It underscored the shared mission of building bridges of understanding and unity across diverse communities.

Fr. Jobin Thomas and Brother Christopher Thomas’s contributions highlighted the vital role of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Eparchy in advancing these efforts, bringing unique perspectives and rich traditions to the discussions.

As attendees returned to their communities, they carried with them a renewed commitment to dialogue, collaboration, and fostering a harmonious society rooted in faith and mutual respect. This forum not only strengthened bonds among participants but also set a strong foundation for future ecumenical initiatives across Canada.

Historic Installation of Venerable Mor Ivanios OIC’s Portrait at Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church, Muscat

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Historic Installation of Venerable Mor Ivanios OIC’s Portrait at Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church, Muscat

In a monumental first for the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region, the portrait of Venerable Mor Ivanios OIC was permanently installed in the Saints Gallery of the Saints Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Ruwi, Muscat during the church’s annual parish feast on June 28, 2024. The honour of unveiling and blessing the portrait was carried out by His Excellency Bishop Paul Hinder OFM Cap, Emeritus Bishop of the Apostolic Vicariate of Southern Arabia, in a ceremony that marked a historic occasion for the Syro-Malankara Catholic community in the region.

The installation of the portrait of Venerable Mor Ivanios, the founder of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church, is a noteworthy milestone not only for the faithful of Oman but also for the wider Catholic community in the GCC. This installation highlights Mor Ivanios’s enduring legacy of unity, spiritual leadership, and missionary zeal, values that resonate deeply with the expatriate Catholic community of the Gulf.

A Testament to Mor Ivanios’ Vision and Legacy

Venerable Mor Ivanios OIC was the pioneering architect of the reunion movement that brought the Malankara Syrian Church into full communion with the Catholic Church in 1930. His vision for ecclesial unity and dedication to spiritual renewal has left an indelible mark on the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church, which continues to flourish worldwide. The presence of his portrait in the Saints Gallery alongside other revered figures of the Church symbolizes the profound connection between the Catholic faithful in the region and the wider universal Church.

The installation at the Saints Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Muscat highlights the growing visibility and significance of the Syro-Malankara Catholic community in the Arabian Peninsula. With thousands of Syro-Malankara Catholics working and residing across Oman and the broader GCC, this event serves as a reminder of their deep-rooted faith and contribution to the spiritual life of the region.

Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church: A Multinational Hub of Faith

Founded in 1977, the Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church in Ruwi is one of the most important centres for Catholic worship in Muscat, Oman, catering to a vibrant, multicultural congregation. The Church has long been a witness to the faith and perseverance of expatriate workers who first flocked to Oman in the early 1900s. Over the years, the church has grown to accommodate the rising number of Catholic faithful in the city, becoming a place of worship for various rites, including the Latin, Syro-Malabar, and Syro-Malankara Catholics.

The first church on the site was consecrated on November 4, 1977, by His Excellency Simon Cardinal Lourdusamy, and the current, larger structure was blessed on March 10, 1995, by Cardinal Jean Louis Tauran to meet the spiritual needs of the growing community. The Church continues to play a pivotal role in the religious and community life of Catholics in Oman, acting as a hub of unity and faith for expatriates from all over the world.

A Call to the Faithful

This historic event is not only a celebration of Mor Ivanios’ contribution to the Catholic Church but also a call to the faithful residing in and around Muscat to visit the Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church and honour the legacy of Mor Ivanios. The Church’s Saints Gallery now stands as a place of inspiration, where visitors can reflect on the lives of saints and revered Church figures, including Mor Ivanios, who have shaped the faith through their dedication to Christ and the Church.

or those interested in attending Mass or visiting the Church, the location is easily accessible at Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church, Ruwi, Muscat. You can find the location on Google Maps here.

Sister Hedwig D.M. (79) Passes Away

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Sister Hedwig D.M. (79) Passes Away

Sister Hedwig D.M., a member of the Congregation of the Daughters of Mary in the Bathery Province, has passed away at the age of 79. The funeral services will be held on June 28 at the Bathery Province Cemetery, officiated by the Bishop of Bathery, His Excellency Joseph Mar Thomas.

Sister Hedwig’s life was marked by her dedication and service within the Congregation, contributing significantly to the community and its missions. Her passing is a profound loss for the congregation and all who knew her.

Distribution of Sewing Machines by Mavelikkara Diocese and Chethana Integrated Development Society

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Distribution of Sewing Machines by Mavelikkara Diocese and Chethana Integrated Development Society

Kayamkulam: In a significant community support initiative, 50 sewing machines were distributed at the St. Joseph Malankara Catholic Church, Pallipad, under the aegis of the Mavelikkara Region’s Chethana Integrated Development Society. The event was inaugurated by His Excellency Joshua Mar Ignathios, Bishop of Mavelikkara Diocese.

Chethana Integrated Development Society has been dedicated to the overall development of the poor and marginalized people in Kerala. It facilitates self-help organizations, empowering women, widows, handicapped individuals, the aged, children, and unorganized and marginalized sections of society, irrespective of caste, creed, and religion. Chethana operates within six regions: Chengannur, Kadampanad, Kattanam, Kollam, Mavelikara, and Puthoor, comprising 23 local units with 470 Self Help Groups (SHGs), 15 Community-Based Rehabilitation (CBR) groups, 10 Senior Citizens groups, and 54 Children groups. The society covers 95 villages across the Kollam, Pathanamthitta, and Alappuzha districts, serving a diverse population of around 3 million people.

Key Attendees:

  • Fr. Francis Plavarakunnil, Director of Chethana
  • Fr. Robert Palavila, Eparchial Finance Officer and Parish Vicar
  • Fr. Philip, Assistant Director of Chethana
  • Ranjini R, President of Pallipad Grama Panchayat
  • Animator Jose

Members from various units including Pallipad, Muttom, Vazhuthanam, and Chennithala, along with Chethana staff, participated in the event. The initiative aimed to empower 50 selected women by providing them with sewing machines to support their livelihoods.

Chethana’s mission focuses on “Change for a Better Future,” promoting sustainable development through participation, empowerment, and decentralization. Their Family Development Programmes have significantly boosted self-confidence among the people, lighting their paths with new thoughts and visions. This distribution event is part of Chethana’s broader goal to achieve integrated development from grassroots to broader society.

The event underscores the diocese’s commitment to social welfare and community development, reflecting the church’s mission to uplift the socio-economic status of the underprivileged sections of society.

YMCA Punalur Sub-Region Inaugural Event

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YMCA Punalur Sub-Region Inaugural Event

Anchal: The inaugural event of the YMCA Punalur Sub-Region was held at the Karavaloor Bethel Mar Thoma Syrian Church, with P.S. Supal MLA officiating the ceremony. P.S. Supal, a dedicated Member of the Legislative Assembly known for his commitment to community development, emphasized the importance of developing an informed and active society.

The Malankara Catholic Church Mavelikkara Diocese Bishop Dr. Joshua Mar Ignathios, renowned for his spiritual leadership and social initiatives, delivered an inspiring blessing speech and launched the year’s action plans. His presence underscored the event’s significance, highlighting the church’s role in supporting community endeavours.

The YMCA (Young Men’s Christian Association) is a global organization focused on developing healthy communities through various social, educational, and recreational programs. The YMCA’s work is vital as it promotes community development, youth leadership, and social responsibility. The Punalur Sub-Region’s initiatives for the year aim to continue this tradition of service and growth.

The event was presided over by Sub-Region Chairman Dr. Abraham Mathew. Fr. Bovas Mathew, Vicar of the Syro Malankara Catholic Church at Anchal, provided a spiritual message. Regional Treasurer P.M. Thomaskutty released the action plan and presented the K.O. Rajukutty Award.

Speakers included:

  • C.P. Samuel
  • Fr. Arun George
  • Fr. Abraham Jacob
  • Fr. Renji Maniparampil
  • General Convenor Shibu K. George
  • Dr. Vinod John
  • Varghese L. Thankachan
  • L. Saji
  • Binu

This event marks the beginning of the YMCA Punalur Sub-Region’s initiatives for the year, focusing on community service, development, and fostering a spirit of unity and cooperation among its members. The collaborative efforts of leaders like P.S. Supal and Bishop Dr. Joshua Mar Ignathios are crucial in driving these initiatives forward, ensuring a positive impact on society.

Foundation Stone Laid for New Church in Kazhakootam, Trivandrum Major Archdiocese

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Foundation Stone Laid for New Church in Kazhakootam, Trivandrum Major Archdiocese

His Beatitude Baselios Cardinal Cleemis Catholicos laid the foundation stone for the newly constructed church in the kadinamkulam area of Kazhakootam Ecclesiastical District on June 20, 2024. The ceremony was a noteworthy event for the local community, marking the beginning of a new chapter in their spiritual journey.

The foundation stone-laying ceremony was attended by several distinguished guests, including Parish Vicar Rev. Fr. Thomas Madakkumoottil, Kazhakootam Vicar Rev. Fr. Joseph Venmanath, and other esteemed clergy. Sisters from various congregations, parish members, and local residents also gathered in large numbers to witness this momentous occasion.

The new church in Kazhakootam is a witness to the growing faith community in the region. It will serve as a spiritual home for many, providing a place for worship, community gatherings, and various church activities. The construction of this church is a response to the increasing number of faithful in the Kazhakootam area, reflecting the dynamic growth of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church.Parishioners and local residents have expressed their excitement and commitme nt to supporting the construction and future activities of the church.

With the foundation stone laid, the construction of the new church is set to begin in earnest. The project is expected to include better facilities while preserving traditional architectural elements that reflect the rich heritage of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church.

The foundation stone-laying ceremony for the new church in Kazhakootam marks a significant milestone for the Syro-Malankara Catholic community. It symbolizes hope, faith, and the commitment to building a stronger, united community. The new church is poised to become an inspiration of spiritual light and a center of communal harmony in the region.

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