The Chandanapally St. George Malankara Syrian Catholic Pilgrimage Church recently celebrated its principal festival, marked by spiritual fervor and communal participation on May 7th. This significant event highlighted the deep-rooted faith and cultural heritage of the local Christian community.
Blessing of the Relics of St. George by Cardinal Cleemis
The highlight of the festival was the blessing of the holy relics of St. George Sahada by His Beatitude Moran Mor Baselios Cleemis Catholicos. The relics, recently installed at the Chandanapally church, have turned the site into a blessed sanctuary, drawing pilgrims and devotees seeking spiritual solace and blessings.
The Historical Chandanapally Procession
In conjunction with the feast, the historic Chandanapally Chembetu Procession took place, which is renowned for its vibrant display of devotion and tradition. This procession, integral to the feast’s celebrations, showcased elaborate rituals and cultural performances, embodying the spirit and faith of the Syro Malankara Catholic community.
Georgian Festival Gathering
The main day of the feast, also observed as the Georgian Festival gathering, brought together the faithful in a grand celebration of faith and community spirit. The day was filled with liturgical services, cultural events, and communal interactions, reinforcing the strong ties among the community members and their shared devotion to St. George.
Community Impact and Spiritual Renewal
The presence of the holy relics of St. George Sahada and the active participation of Moran Mor Baselios Cleemis Catholicos have infused new vitality into the community, enhancing its spiritual landscape. The Chandanapally St. George Malankara Syrian Catholic Pilgrimage Church, with its rich history and vibrant community life, continues to serve as a focal point for pilgrimage and devotion in the region.
As the celebrations drew to a close, the community reflected on the profound impact of these events, which not only honor St. George but also foster a deeper connection with their faith and heritage. The annual festival not only commemorates the saint but also strengthens the bonds within the community, promoting a shared commitment to carry forward their rich traditions and spiritual legacy.
In a spiritual milestone for the local faithful, the Thiruvananthapuram Major Archdiocese celebrated the blessing of the newly completed doors and cross of the church in the Parakode area of the Adoor Ecclesiastical District. The occasion was graced by His Beatitude Moran Mor Baselios Cleemis Catholicos, whose presence and blessings sanctified the new structures.
Ceremonial Blessings by Cardinal Cleemis
On May 7, 2024, Cardinal Baselios Cleemis performed the blessing rites, marking an important moment of spiritual enrichment and communal joy for the parishioners. The ceremony underscored the community’s dedication to their faith and the continued growth of their church infrastructure.
Participation of Local Clergy and Community
The event was well-attended by key figures from the local clergy, including the parish vicar, Fr. Clim Parukkoor, and the Ecclesiastical District Vicar, the Very Reverend Shantan Cheruvil. Their leadership and commitment to the spiritual life of the community were evident as they participated in the ceremony alongside other dignitaries.
The gathering also included numerous priests serving in the district, respected deacons, sisters, and members of the parish community, all of whom came together to witness and celebrate this significant ecclesiastical event. Their collective presence added a profound sense of community and shared faith to the proceedings.
Community Impact and Future Outlook
The blessing of the church’s main gates and cross is not only a physical enhancement of the church’s premises but also a symbolic reinforcement of the parish’s spiritual gates, welcoming all to join in worship and community activities. This development is anticipated to further inspire and deepen the faith of the church members, reinforcing their commitment to the church’s mission in the region.
As the Thiruvananthapuram Major Archdiocese continues to expand and enhance its facilities, events like these serve as important reminders of the church’s foundational role in nurturing the spiritual lives of its members. The community looks forward to more such celebrations as they continue to grow and thrive under the guidance of their church leaders.
In an initiative aimed at strengthening the fabric of family life within the community, the Bathery Diocese recently hosted a significant training session for its Core Team of young families. Held at the Prathyasha MDM Pastoral Center, this event underscored the crucial role of young family units in fostering a vibrant and spiritually enriched community.
Event Inauguration by Bishop Joseph Mar Thomas
The session was officially inaugurated by His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Joseph Mar Thomas, Metropolitan bishop of the Bathery Diocese. His opening remarks highlighted the importance of young families in the mission and ministry of the Church, setting a tone of anticipation and responsibility for the day’s discussions.
Focused Training and Discussions
The training featured insightful sessions led by revered clergymen, Rev. Fr. Joseph Valliyatt and Rev. Fr. Thomas Madukkamoottil, who delved into the practicalities and significance of young family ministry. Their presentations addressed the pivotal role these families play within the Church, emphasizing the need for active involvement and spiritual leadership from these core units.
Contributions from Diocesan Leaders
Further enriching the event, Rev. Fr. James Maleparambil, Director for Young Families, along with Sister Kiran SIC, the diocesan animator, and Mr. Jifi Anippally, the diocesan secretary, shared their perspectives. Their discussions spanned various aspects of pastoral care, reinforcing the idea that young families are not merely recipients but also providers of the Church’s pastoral mission.
Libin George and Josna Jojo, both active members of the diocesan community, also spoke at the event, contributing their views on the challenges and opportunities faced by young families today. Their inputs particularly focused on how these families can better integrate into the broader church activities while maintaining a strong familial foundation.
Participation from Various Church Representatives
The training session was well-attended by diocesan directors, animators, and secretaries from various regions, illustrating the collective effort of the Church to bolster the spiritual and communal life of young families. The presence of numerous church representatives, actively engaged in service across different diocesan sectors, demonstrated a unified commitment to nurturing the foundational units of the Church—its families.
Conclusion
The core team training at Bathery Diocese represents a crucial step in acknowledging and empowering young families as essential pillars of the Church. Through these targeted training sessions, the Syro Malankara Catholic Church not only aims to reinforce the spiritual vitality of its congregations but also ensures that these young families are well-prepared to take on their roles as leaders and exemplars in their communities. This event not only served as a platform for education and discussion but also as a reaffirmation of the Church’s dedication to its foundational values and its future.
In a spirited gathering imbued with fresh ideas and enthusiasm, over 600 young leaders convened at St. George Malankara Syrian Pilgrim Catholic Church, Chandanapally, for the MCYM Bhadrasana Yuvajana Nethrutva Sangamam IGESIA 2K24. This pivotal event was held in conjunction with the feast of St. Geevarghese Sahada, drawing participants to celebrate and cultivate leadership within the Syro Malankara Catholic Church community.
The summit was inaugurated by His Excellency Dr. Samuel Mar Irenios, Metropolitan of the Pathanamthitta Diocese, who underscored the importance of youth engagement in the life of the Church. The meeting was presided over by Bibin Abraham, MCYM President of the Eparchy, marking a collaborative effort to foster a sense of unity and purpose among the young attendees. Fr. Skaria (Job) Pathalil, Parish Vicar – Fr Daniel (Benny) Narakathinal, Sister Joan SIC, Subin Thomas, Sam Koshy, Joe Varghese, Vishakh, Aksa Rajan, Sona Mariyam etc. gave leadership and spoke at the event.
The day was packed with activities starting with a special prayer and respect paid to emigrants at 8.30 am, symbolizing the Church’s support for its broader community, both locally and globally. This was followed by the Holy Qurbana at 9 am, celebrated by His Excellency Bishop Yoohanon Mar Chrysostom, highlighting the spiritual nourishment that forms the backbone of these gatherings.
One of the highpoints of the day was the introduction of ‘Kadosh,’ a full Bible reading initiative led by MCYM of the Pathanamthitta Diocese, aiming to deepen the biblical understanding among the youth. The programme was unveiled at the summit by His Excellency Dr. Samuel Mar Irenios and handed over to Bibin Abraham. This endeavour will run from the 6th of May to the 31st of December 2024, inviting participants from all age groups to engage with the Holy Scriptures on a daily basis via social media, enhancing their scriptural literacy and devotion.
Lunch was served at 2 pm, providing an opportunity for fellowship and further discussions on leadership and community service. The day culminated in a Bible play named ‘Gilead’s Valorous Son’ at 8.30pm.
The leadership summit not only served as a platform for youth to engage in meaningful dialogue and activities but also reinforced the Church’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of leaders. Participants left with renewed energy and a deeper connection to their faith and community, embodying the values espoused by St. Geevarghese Sahada.
As the Church moves forward, such events underscore the vibrant future of the Syro Malankara Catholic Church, fostering a legacy of leadership and active participation among its youth.
In a spiritual gathering on the 4th of May 2024, St. Mary’s Malankara Syrian Catholic Cathedral in Neb Sarai hosted a dual celebration of faith and service. The event was presided over by His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Thomas Mar Anthonios OIC, Bishop of the Eparchy of St. John Chrysostom, Gurgaon-Delhi. This day marked a momentous occasion where ten seminary students received minor orders and three were elevated to the diaconate, signifying their readiness to embrace greater liturgical and pastoral responsibilities.
The ceremony began at the serene early hour of 6:30 AM, gathering the faithful in prayer and support for these candidates, who are stepping forward to dedicate their lives to the service of the Church and its community. The diaconate ordination saw Brothers Thomas Konnathu, Joseph Konnathu, and Roji Charuvila ascending to this significant ecclesiastical role, prepared to assist in the celebration of the divine mysteries, particularly the Eucharist, and to undertake works of charity.
The conferral of minor orders also took place, with the following seminary students being initiated into the clerical state:
Subdeacon (Hevupadiakono): Brothers Sangeeth Mulamoottil and George Charivupurayidathil
Lector (Koruyo): Brothers Chacko Cheruvilaputhenveedu, Jose Nallakal, and Chacko Menayathil
Cantor (M’Samarono): Brothers Arun Pathackal and Robin Varghese
His Excellency Dr. Thomas Mar Anthonios emphasized the importance of these ordinations in his homily, highlighting the dedication required to serve both God and community. “These vestments you don today are symbols of your commitment to carry the Church’s teachings into the world, serving not just as leaders but as humble servants of the divine,” he noted, encouraging the ordinands to live their lives as examples of Christ’s teachings.
The community showed profound support and joy for the newly ordained deacons and those who received minor orders, viewing it as a strengthening of the Church’s mission in the region. The event not only reinforced the spiritual foundation of these young men but also celebrated the continuous growth of the Church through the enrichment of its clerical ranks.
As the ceremony concluded, the atmosphere was one of hope and celebration, with the faithful looking forward to the positive impact these young men will undoubtedly make within their communities. The Church remains grateful for the grace that guides these servants on their spiritual journey and prays for their success as they live out their vocations.
This day at St. Mary’s Cathedral was a profound testament to the vibrant future of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church, marked by dedication to faith, community service, and the holy sacraments. The Eparchy of St. John Chrysostom continues to foster a community deeply rooted in the traditions of the Church while looking forward with optimism to the contributions these new leaders will bring.
On the 3rd of May, the Chandanappally St. George Malankara Syrian Catholic Pilgrimage Church marked its annual festival with a Holy Mass celebrated by the respected Bishop Mathews Mar Pachomios, the Eparchial Bishop of Pune-Khadki region. This event not only bolstered the spiritual bonds within the community but also set the stage for a series of enriching community interactions.
The Holy Mass, held in the morning, was a profound expression of faith, attended by hundreds of devotees who gathered to partake in the solemn liturgy and receive blessings. Bishop Mar Pachomios, in his homily, highlighted the values of love, service, and unity as central to the festival’s theme, echoing the teachings of St. George, the revered martyr of the church.
Following the liturgical service, the Malankara Catholic Mothers’ Forum (MCMF) of the Pathanamthitta Ecclesiastical District took the lead in organizing a commendation meeting. This event was graced by the Deputy Speaker of the Kerala Legislative Assembly, Honourable Mr. Chittayam Gopakumar, who inaugurated the session. His speech praised the vital role of faith-based communities in fostering societal welfare and unity.
Adding a cultural dimension to the day’s activities, renowned cine artist Mr. Sijo Varghese conducted a motivational class. His session, focused on personal development and community service, resonated deeply with the attendees, inspiring them to contribute positively to their communities.
The festival at Chandanappally St. George Malankara Syrian Catholic Pilgrimage Church is a cornerstone event that beautifully blends spiritual devotion with community service. As the church continues to be a pivotal space for communal harmony, events like these underscore the dynamic role of spiritual institutions in societal progress and cohesion. The successful conduct of the festival, amidst the verdant landscapes of Chandanappally, not only celebrated the legacy of St. George but also reinforced the community’s commitment to faith, service, and unity.
In a magnificent celebration that encapsulated both reverence and communal unity, the Malankara Catholic Church’s Thiruvalla Archdiocese observed its Archdiocesan Day and Archbishop’s Day with remarkable grandeur. Hosted at the Cathedral of St. John, the event drew an impressive gathering, including various representatives from over 134 churches under the archdiocese. The archdiocese encompasses the dioceses of Moovatupuzha, Bathery, Puttur, and Thiruvalla.
The day commenced with the Holy Qurbana, presided over by His Beatitude Moran Mor Baselios Cardinal Cleemis Catholicos of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church and the Major Archbishop of Trivandrum, who had arrived a day in advance to partake in the celebrations. Joining him were several esteemed bishops, including His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Joshua Mor Ignathios from Mavelikkara, His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Joseph Mar Thomas from Bathery, His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Samuel Mar Irenios from Pathanamthitta, His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Mathews Mar Pachomios from the Eparchy of St Ephrem Khadki-Pune, and His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Antony Mar Silvanos, along with the local Archbishop, His Grace Most Rev. Dr. Thomas Mor Koorilos.
Cardinal Cleemis’ Homily: Reflecting on the Archdiocese’s Rich History
In a deeply moving homily delivered after the mass, His Beatitude Moran Mor Baselios Cleemis Catholicos shared profound reflections on the historical journey of the Thiruvalla Archdiocese. His words painted a vivid picture of an archdiocese birthed from humble beginnings into a lighthouse of faith for Central Travancore.
Cardinal Cleemis began by commemorating the foundational moments of the archdiocese, initiated by Mar Theophilos over 91 years ago. He highlighted how what started as a mere eparchy under Mar Theophilos’ guidance blossomed into a pivotal spiritual centre, eventually becoming the pride of Central Travancore. His narrative wove through the decades, touching upon the resilience and faith that propelled the community forward through various adversities.
He recounted the trials faced by the early community, particularly when many of their churches, initially simple sheds, were consumed by fire. Yet, the spirit of the community was undeterred as they rebuilt their places of worship, an act Cardinal Cleemis described as akin to renewing the church in its most literal sense—rising from ashes to stand stronger and more united.
The Cardinal also reminisced about a significant milestone—the silver jubilee celebrated in Kottayam. He shared a personal memory from 1974, which marked not just the passage of 50 years since the establishment of the Syro Malankara Church but was also the year Mother Teresa visited Kerala. His anecdote about witnessing Mother Teresa’s presence in Kottayam during those jubilee celebrations brought a sense of historical reverence and spiritual depth to his reflections.
As the archdiocese nears its centenary, Cardinal Cleemis expressed a poignant sense of the swift passage of time since those foundational days, emphasising that the journey of a hundred years is a testament to the enduring faith and the ever-evolving legacy of the Malankara Catholic Church. Through his homily, the Cardinal not only honored the past but also invigorated the faithful with a renewed sense of purpose and continuity as we approach this significant milestone.
Cardinal Cleemis on the Essence of Archdiocese Day: A Call for Spiritual and Communal Action
During the commemoration of the Archdiocese Day, His Beatitude Moran Mor Baselios Cleemis Catholicos offered profound insights into the significance of the day, emphasizing not just a celebration but a call to deeper spiritual and communal involvement. The Cardinal eloquently articulated how the essence of the day is intertwined with God’s plan for humanity and the Church’s active role in manifesting this divine blueprint through continuous commitment and participation.
Spiritual Engagement Beyond Rituals
Cardinal Cleemis drew a compelling analogy between the Church’s liturgical activities and a theatrical play, where behind-the-scenes efforts are akin to the Church’s liturgical preparations. He noted that in today’s fast-paced world, where scenes on stage change with the push of a button, the Church too experiences rapid transitions. However, he stressed the importance of understanding the profound spiritual underpinnings of these transitions rather than mechanically moving through rituals.
He highlighted the meticulous work of the seminarians of the archdiocese, praising their quick and careful execution of duties, which he described as the pride of the community. Yet, he reminded everyone that while the mechanics of rituals, detailed in the Thookasa (the liturgical book), are important, they must not overshadow the spiritual essence. The Thookasa outlines what to do and how to do it, from vestments to liturgical actions, but Cardinal Cleemis called on the faithful to grasp the deeper spiritual meanings—viewing these practices as calls to enrich one’s soul as if directly summoned by Heaven.
Cultural Practices and Community Responsibilities
Addressing a contemporary issue, the Cardinal critiqued the practice of teaching Indian classical dance within the church premises, suggesting that such activities should instead take place in appropriate venues like auditoriums. This shift, he argued, would maintain the sanctity of the church while still fostering cultural expression.
Focus on Social Outreach and Charity
Further elaborating on the church’s social responsibilities, Cardinal Cleemis reflected on the church’s commitment to eradicating homelessness within the community. He shared updates on significant initiatives under the Thiruvalla Archdiocese’s guidance, where substantial progress has been made towards housing the homeless—130 homes completed and 220 more in progress. These efforts, he noted, are vivid demonstrations of God’s love through the church, even amidst financial constraints.
He shared a light-hearted yet poignant anecdote about a conversation with a bishop from the Latin church who noticed the frequent prayers for debt relief in malankara masses. Cardinal Cleemis humorously revealed that these prayers were indeed a nod to the archdiocese’s financial burdens, underscoring the real challenges they face while maintaining a commitment to life-giving charity projects.
Cardinal Cleemis’ address was a powerful reminder of the dual call of the Archdiocese Day: to deepen spiritual life and to actively engage in transformative community service. It underscored the importance of aligning ecclesiastical practices with profound spiritual insights and social responsibility, urging all present to embody the teachings of the church in every aspect of their lives.
Launching the Ivanian Projects: A New Initiative for Housing and Community Support
In a compelling call to action, Cardinal Cleemis introduced the Ivanian Projects during the Archdiocesan Day, a significant initiative aimed at confronting homelessness within the community. Named after Mar Ivanios, the revered founder of the church, these projects underscore the church’s foundational commitment to serve and uplift the less fortunate among us.
Community Engagement and Support
Cardinal Cleemis passionately appealed to the clergy and faithful to re-envision their approach to community service. He emphasized the project’s goal is not merely to construct a set number of houses but to genuinely alleviate the suffering of neighbours and fellow parishioners. Highlighting the unsettling reality discovered through surveys—many still live under tarpaulin coverings—he called for a united effort to ensure that every family has a stable and dignified home.
He cited the example of Thomas Pithav of Bathery, who has made land available for building homes for the homeless, as a benchmark for other dioceses to follow. This act of generosity is a template for how each diocese can contribute to this noble cause.
Rethinking Church Festivities and Resources
The Cardinal proposed a radical yet practical shift in how the church organizes its resources. He suggested reducing the number of annual church festivals from 10-12 to just one, and shortening extended 15-day festivals to only two days. The rationale is to redirect the substantial funds typically spent on these events towards building homes for the homeless. This approach has been successfully implemented in the Trivandrum Major Archdiocese, where the decision to forego traditional carols allowed 217 churches to redirect their efforts and resources, resulting in the construction of 67 homes.
Guidance and Implementation
His Grace Most Rev. Dr. Thomas Mor Koorilos, referred to affectionately as Koorilos Thirumeni, is tasked with guiding this initiative. Cardinal Cleemis stressed that this isn’t about starting new fund collections but is about optimizing existing resources to better serve the community’s needs. He reminded everyone of the church’s humble beginnings and the importance of staying true to those roots as the church continues to grow.
Centenary Celebrations and Future Plans
Looking ahead, Cardinal Cleemis outlined the roadmap leading up to the church’s centennial celebrations. Starting in 2024 from Parasala and culminating in 2030 at the Thiruvananthapuram major archdiocese, each diocese will host a year-long focus on the journey towards the centenary. This 6-year long observance is not only a celebration of the church’s 100-year legacy but also an opportunity to deepen its commitment to social justice and community support.
By launching the Ivanian Projects on such a significant day, Cardinal Cleemis reaffirmed the Syro Malankara Catholic Church’s dedication to its mission of showing God’s love through action, and he invited every member of the community to partake in this transformative endeavour.
Symbolic Launch of the Ivanian Home Project and Celebratory Acknowledgements
As the day’s events unfolded, a significant ceremonial moment marked the inception of the Ivanian Home Project—a lighting of the lamp ceremony. This act symbolized the ignition of hope and the communal commitment towards eradicating homelessness in the community. The ceremony was graced by prominent figures from the church’s pastoral and lay organizations, including Dr. Varghese K Cherian, the Pastoral Council Secretary; Abigail, President of the MCCL; Cyriac John, President of the MCYM; Shibu Chungath, President of the MCA; Rosemary George, President of the MCMF; Leny Abraham Pakanikuzhiyil, President of the Vincent de Paul; and Beena Jacob, President of the Legion of Mary. Their joint participation with the bishops in lighting the lamp was a powerful testament to the unity and shared vision within the church.
The need for the Ivanian Home Project was underscored by recent surveys indicating that within the 134 churches surveyed, there are 443 homes that need to be built. The lighting of the lamp served as both a symbolic and practical beginning to this ambitious undertaking, aiming to provide stable and dignified homes for those in need.
Community Contributions and Welcoming New Leadership
In an inspiring display of community support, Shibu Sakaria A, a member of Kallissery church, contributed significantly by donating the funds necessary to build a house. This generous act was recognized during the ceremony, with Mr. Shibu handing over the funds directly to Baselios Cleemis Thirumeni, further highlighting the community’s active participation in the church’s charitable projects.
Furthermore, the day was also marked by the warm reception of Mathews Mor Pachomios Thirumeni, the youngest bishop recently ordained. He was welcomed into his new role with traditional honors, including the presentation of a shawl by Cleemis Thirumeni. Additionally, a monetary token was presented to him by the Thiruvalla Archdiocese, intended to support the mission work in the Pune Khadki region, signifying the support and expectations for his continued service in his new capacity.
Conclusion
The events of the day, filled with significant speeches, spiritual reflections, and communal activities, not only reinforced the Thiruvalla Archdiocese’s commitment to its religious and social missions but also set a strong foundation for future endeavours. The launch of the Ivanian Home Project, supported by the church’s leadership and community members, marks a new chapter in the church’s history, one that promises to extend its legacy of service and compassion well into the future.
In a spiritually resonant ceremony at St. Mary’s Malankara Syrian Catholic Cathedral in Neb Sarai, on the 4th of May 2024 at 6.30am, the Eparchy of St. John Chrysostom of Gurgaon-Delhi is set to witness a remarkable event in the life of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church. The ordination and conferral of minor orders upon devout servants of the Church will take place, presided over by His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Thomas Mar Anthonios OIC.
Brothers Thomas Konnathu, Joseph Konnathu, and Roji Charuvila will ascend to the diaconate, embracing a life dedicated to service and spiritual guidance. This diaconate ordination is a step towards the priesthood, where these brothers will assist the bishop and priests in the celebration of the divine mysteries, especially the Eucharist, and in works of charity.
Alongside the diaconate ordination, the Church will also confer minor orders, a significant rite of passage for those progressing towards the Holy Priesthood. In the tradition of the Syro-Malankara Church, these orders are steeped in the rich Syriac heritage and serve as milestones on the path of ecclesiastical service.
The order of ‘Hevupadiakono,’ or Subdeacon, is conferred upon Brothers Sangeeth Mulamoottil and George Charivupurayidathil. This role is vital in assisting during the liturgy, caring for the altar, and preparing the sacramental elements for Mass.
Brothers Chacko Cheruvilaputhenveedu, Jose Nallakal, and Chacko Menayathil are receiving the order of ‘Koruyo,’ or Lector. As Lectors, they are charged with the proclamation of God’s word, a sacred duty that underscores the importance of scripture in divine worship.
Lastly, Brothers Arun Pathackal and Robin Varghese are set to receive the order of ‘M’Samarono,’ traditionally known as the Cantor. In this capacity, they will lead the liturgical hymns and psalms, a role that enhances the beauty of the Church’s prayer and reflects the joy of the Gospel through music.
As these brothers accept their new responsibilities, they embody the essence of service inherent in the teachings of St. John Chrysostom, the patron of their Eparchy.
The Church invites the faithful to join in this occasion, which is a testament to the continued growth and spiritual enrichment of the community. The ordination and conferral of these orders serve as a renewal of commitment to the Church’s mission and a reflection of the ongoing grace that guides its servants on their spiritual path.
In a series of reverential and historic events, the Chandanappally St. George Malankara Syrian Catholic Pilgrimage Church celebrated the arrival and consecration of the sacred relics of St. George, famously revered as Mor Geevarghese Sahada. This momentous occasion began on the morning of April 29, following the Divine Liturgy at the grave chapel of Blessed Mar Ivanios in St. Mary’s Malankara Syrian Catholic Major Archeparchial Cathedral.
The relic’s procession was a splendid display of faith and community spirit, journeying through Pattom, Nalanchira, Mannanthala, Karette, Ayoor, Valakom, Kizhakketheruvu, Kalayapuram, and Puthussery Bhagam churches. By late afternoon, the procession reached the Sacred Heart Church in Adoor, marking significant stops that symbolized the deep-rooted spiritual connectivity and veneration towards St. George across the region.
Continuing from Adoor, the relic made its way through Anandapally, Thatta, Kaippattoor, Omallur, and Puthenpeedika, visiting local churches, with the procession finally culminating at the Cathedral in Pathanamthitta. The arrival at the cathedral was marked by a ceremonious welcome, attended by hundreds of faithful and led by prominent figures of the church.
The primary festival, set for May 7, promises to be a grand affair with the official installation of the relic in Chandanappally St. George Malankara Syrian Catholic Pilgrimage Church. Scheduled for 9:30 AM, the event will be graced by Moran Mor Baselios Cardinal Cleemis, the Major Archbishop of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church, alongside other distinguished clergy members.
This sacred event not only enhances the spiritual landscape of the area but also strengthens the bond within the community, reaffirming their faith and devotion towards St. George, who is celebrated for his martyrdom and triumph in Christian lore. The faithful are invited to partake in this blessed occasion, as the church anticipates a significant influx of pilgrims and believers, drawn together in shared devotion and celebration of their patron saint’s enduring legacy.
In a poignant moment reflective of their commitment to service and solidarity, the leaders of the Malankara Catholic Youth Movement (MCYM) of the Thiruvalla region had the honour of visiting His Grace Most Rev. Dr. Thomas Mar Koorilos, the guiding figure and Metropolitan Archbishop of Tiruvalla.
This visit held special significance as the Church steps closer to its centennial year, a milestone marking a century of faith, growth, and service. One of the key initiatives led by His Grace Thomas Mar Koorilos is a housing project aimed at providing homes for the homeless members within the church community. This endeavour reflects the Church’s dedication to living the Gospel through action and compassion.
Demonstrating their support, the MCYM Thiruvalla presented a generous donation of ₹50,000 to this noble housing project. This contribution is not merely financial assistance but a testament to the youth’s active participation in the church’s mission towards the betterment of society.
The housing project under His Excellency’s leadership is a call to social responsibility that resonates with the core values of the MCYM, striving to make a tangible difference in the lives of the less fortunate. As the Malankara Catholic Church soon enters a new century, this act of kindness reinforces the youth’s role in building a more inclusive and caring community.
