The Malankara Syrian Catholic Church recently held a pivotal gathering for young families within the Bathery Diocese at the Kasaragod Region. The Youth Family Apostolate Meeting was conducted on March 16, 2024, at the Cherupuzha Malankara Syrian Catholic Church, serving as a communal beacon for young couples from eight parishes who joined the seminar.
The assembly was inaugurated by Fr. Thomas Madukkamoottil, the diocesan director for Youth Family Apostolate, who addressed the contemporary challenges faced by young families today. He expressed concern over the rising number of marital separations affecting the Church and the wider community, underscoring the heightened attention the Malankara Catholic Church is now investing in family ministry.
The participants, divided into groups, engaged in constructive discussions about the various issues young families confront in today’s society and proposed actionable solutions to address these challenges.
Esteemed speakers including the Kasaragod Regional Proto Vicar Fr. Varghese Thannikkakuzhi, Fr. Samuel Puthuppady, MCMF Regional President Mrs. Lysamma, Coordinator Sister Amritha S.I.C, Mrs. Jisha, and Mrs. Mariamma Mutampallikunnel also shared their insights, emphasizing the sanctity of marriage and the importance of nurturing a supportive community for the spiritual and social well-being of young families.
This convention reflects the Church’s ongoing commitment to bolstering the foundations of family life and ensuring that the young families are fortified to face the complexities of modern society with faith and solidarity.
The Syro-Malankara Catholic Church community in the United Kingdom is set to witness a key occasion as the St. Paul’s Syro-Malankara Catholic Mission in Leicester prepares for its inaugural Holy Mass on April 7, 2024. This landmark event marks the establishment of the 21st Mission in the UK region and will take place at St. Edward’s Catholic Church on Aylestone Road, Leicester. The historic church, known for its welcoming atmosphere and support for diverse Catholic traditions, provides the perfect setting for the Malankara faithful to gather in praise and prayer.
Under the guidance of Rev. Dr. Kuriakose Thadathil, the Special Pastor and Coordinator for the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church in the UK, the community will gather to celebrate the Holy Qurbono, embodying their faith and commitment to the growth of the Church in new regions.
Rev. Fr. James Elanjickal is set to lead the congregation, bringing with him a message of hope and spiritual renewal. The Church extends its deepest gratitude to God for His unwavering guidance and to all those whose efforts have culminated in the realization of this new mission.
The Syro-Malankara Catholic Church invites everyone to join in this celebration of faith, unity, and divine worship. The Mass will not only be a singular event but also the beginning of a tradition, with services planned for every first Sunday of the month at 3 pm.
St. Edward’s Catholic Church, standing at 633 Aylestone Road, has long been a cornerstone of the Leicester community, offering spiritual nourishment and communal support. It stands as a symbol of the shared faith that binds different Catholic rites together.
Leicester, a cosmopolitan city in the heart of England, is steeped in rich history and diverse cultures. Known for its significant Roman past and vibrant modern community, the city is a bustling hub that celebrates its heritage and embraces innovation. Home to the iconic Leicester Cathedral and the discovery site of King Richard III, it’s a place where history intertwines with contemporary living.
The establishment of St. Paul’s Mission in Leicester is a demonstration of the vibrant and growing presence of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church in the UK, dedicated to serving the faithful and spreading the Gospel’s message.
For more information about the mission and its services, parishioners and those interested in the Syro-Malankara faith are encouraged to reach out to the church’s contact points listed in the announcement.
In an ardent display of joy and veneration, the Syro Malankara Catholic Church has celebrated the elevation of Archbishop Mar Ivanios to the status of Venerable — a momentous milestone on the path to sainthood within the Catholic Church.
The declaration of Mar Ivanios as Venerable signifies his advancement in the canonization process, which follows a series of rigorous steps that begin with the title of ‘Servant of God’. Subsequently, the individual’s “heroic virtues” are recognized, and they are bestowed with the title of ‘Venerable’. Being declared Venerable is an acknowledgment by the Church of Mar Ivanios’s heroic virtues and a life lived in steadfast faith and service.
This sacred occasion was marked with a solemn Eucharistic celebration and memorial service at the St. Mary’s Major Archeparchy Cathedral in Pattom, Thiruvananthapuram, overseen by Major Archbishop Moran Mor Baselios Cleemis Catholicos.
The luminaries of the Syro Malankara Catholic Church, including Tiruvalla Archbishop Abune Thomas Mar Koorilos, Mavelikara Bishop Abune Joshua Mar Ignathios, Gurgaon-Delhi Bishop Abune Thomas Mar Anthonios, Parassala Bishop Abune Thomas Mar Eusebios, Moovattupuzha Bishop Abune Yoohanon Mar Theodosius, and Curia Bishop Abune Antony Mar Silvanos, were present to honour the life and legacy of Archbishop Mar Ivanios.
The beatification process, which confers the title of ‘Blessed’, involves the confirmation of a miracle attributed to the candidate’s intercession. Canonization, the final step in declaring a Catholic faithful as a saint, necessitates a second miracle post-beatification and further scrutiny by the Congregation for the Causes of Saints. The Church has now officially recognized Archbishop Mar Ivanios as ‘Venerable’, solidifying his role as an exemplar of piety and holiness.
As preparations begin for the grand remembrance day on July 15th, the faithful of the Syro Malankara Catholic Church reflect upon the extraordinary journey of their new Venerable. The recognition of Archbishop Mar Ivanios’ sanctity is not only a profound honour for the Malankara Syrian Catholic Church but also a spiritual encouragement for the faithful worldwide as they witness the embodiment of holiness through his life’s work.
Pathanamthitta: The Pathanamthitta Eparchy’s Bible Convention 2024, a much-awaited spiritual event of the Syro Malankara Catholic Church, has commenced with fervour and faith. The opening ceremony, blessed by the presence of His Excellency Samuel Mar Ireneos, saw the inauguration by His Grace Yoohanon Mar Chrysostom, Metropolitan Archbishop, amidst a devout assembly of church dignitaries.
The event’s highlight was the presence of the renowned speaker Fr. Daniel Poovanathil, whose vibrant and insightful expositions on the Bible have captivated audiences far and wide. Fr. Poovanathil, known for his charismatic approach to the Word of God, promises to deliver profound biblical insights and heart-stirring sermons to the faithful gathered from all corners of the Eparchy.
As the Vicar General Monsignor Varghese Mathew Kalayil, Rev. Fr. Sijo James Charivupuram, Cathedral Vicar Very Rev. Fr. Johnson Parackal, Rev. Sister Vineeth SIC, and Pastoral Council Secretary Mr. Sunny Mathew join in communion, the Bible Convention stands as a testament to the Eparchy’s commitment to spiritual growth and ecclesiastical unity.
The convention, expected to be a watershed event for the ecclesiastical district, will resonate with Fr. Poovanathil’s message of hope, renewal, and spiritual awakening. Attendees are set to experience a transformative journey through his teachings, as he is renowned for making the sacred scriptures accessible and relevant to everyday life.
Fr. Daniel Poovanathil’s sessions are particularly anticipated, as he has established himself as a pivotal figure in biblical evangelism, bringing scripture alive through his engaging storytelling and deep understanding of Christian teachings.
The Pathanamthitta Eparchy expresses its profound gratitude for the participation of Fr. Poovanathil and is confident that his contributions will greatly enrich the convention’s proceedings. The community is encouraged to embrace this opportunity for spiritual enrichment and to draw inspiration from a speaker who has dedicated his life to illuminating the path of Christ with passion and wisdom.
For more information on Fr. Daniel Poovanathil’s sessions and the full schedule of the Bible Convention, the faithful are invited to reach out to their local Ecclesiastical District offices. The Bible Convention is an open invitation to all seeking to deepen their connection with the Word and to experience the transformative power of faith.
In a significant announcement today, Pope Francis elevated Archbishop Geevarghese Mor Ivanios, the pioneering figure of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church, to the esteemed status of Venerable, marking a significant step towards his eventual canonization as a saint.
A celebratory Holy Qurbana will be held at 4:00 PM at the Pattom Cathedral tomorrow (15th March, 2023), followed by a prayer service at the tomb of the late archbishop, honoring his memory and legacy. This event, open to all, invites the clergy to join in unity with the laity to mark this joyful occasion.
Archbishop Ivanios was affectionately known as the “Newman of the East,” for his striking parallels to Cardinal John Henry Newman of the West. Much like Newman, Archbishop Ivanios was a powerful force for religious renewal and unity within the Christian community. His advocacy for a return to Catholic unity mirrors Cardinal Newman’s own journey towards Catholicism, having initially been a prominent figure in the Anglican Church. Born as Panikkervettil Thomas Panicker Geevarghese on September 21, 1882, in Mavelikkara, India, he embarked on a remarkable journey that would see him become an inspiration of spiritual leadership in the region.
“The announcement of Archbishop Mar Ivanios’s advancement towards sainthood has filled our hearts with boundless elation.” Major Archbishop Cardinal Baselios Cleemis, echoed the sentiments of the entire Syro-Malankara Catholic Church when he expressed the collective exhilaration at this blessed revelation.
“The proclamation that Archbishop Mar Ivanios, our beloved Shepherd and Servant of God, has been acknowledged as Venerable by the Holy See ignites in us a profound gratitude and joy,” remarked Cardinal Cleemis. “It is the testament to his heroic virtues; his steadfast dedication to Divine Providence, his deep and unwavering unity with the Holy See and the broader Catholic Church, and the sanctity of his personal life devoted to piety and righteousness.”
Cardinal Baselios Cleemis continued, “Our Church has engaged in earnest and fervent prayer over many years, and now, at this historic moment, we are privileged to revere our spiritual patriarch as Venerable Father. This is not only an accolade for the Malankara Church but also a sanctification of Mar Ivanios’s holy life. We stand in gratitude to the Holy See and to His Holiness, the Pope, for this profound act of recognition and appreciation.”
Mar Ivanios’ legacy is deeply intertwined with the establishment of the Order of the Imitation of Christ, popularly known as Bethany Ashram, for men, and the Sisters of the Imitation of Christ, known as Bethany Madhom, for women. These congregations, founded in 1919, stand as a testament to Archbishop Ivanios’ commitment to fostering spiritual growth and community service.
The archbishop’s path to sainthood began with his declaration as a Servant of God in 2007, marking the first phase in the canonization process. Today’s announcement acknowledges his heroic virtues and exemplary life, paving the way for further recognition of his sanctity.
Archbishop Ivanios’ journey was marked by significant milestones, including his pivotal role in the Reunion Movement of the 1920s within the Malankara Orthodox Church. His decision to lead the movement towards full communion with the Catholic Church in 1930 was a testament to his unwavering faith and dedication to Christian unity.
Throughout his life, Archbishop Ivanios championed Catholic education, founding numerous institutions to nurture the minds and souls of young people. His contributions to academia, including the establishment of a college in Thiruvananthapuram, underscored his commitment to holistic education and intellectual growth.
The process of becoming a saint involves several stages, beginning with the declaration of Servant of God, followed by recognition of heroic virtues leading to the title of Venerable. The next steps include beatification, whereby the candidate is declared Blessed, and finally, canonization, which confers the status of saint.
As a Venerable, Archbishop Geevaghese Mor Ivanios joins the ranks of those whose lives exemplify profound holiness and dedication to the Christian faith. His journey towards sainthood serves as an inspiration to believers worldwide, reflecting the enduring power of faith and the transformative impact of a life lived in service to others.
The Syro-Malankara Catholic Church, rooted in the apostolic tradition of Saint Thomas the Apostle, celebrates Archbishop Ivanios’ elevation with joy and gratitude, recognizing him as a spiritual luminary whose legacy continues to illuminate the path of faith for generations to come. For those who wish to be part of the historical commemoration, the services at Pattom Cathedral will serve as an opportunity to pay homage to a life dedicated to the glory of God and the service of his people.
Tomb of The Venerable Archbishop Geevarghese Mar Ivanios, at St. Mary’s Cathedral Church, Pattom, Trivandrum.
As the sun rose over Thiruvalla, the air was charged with a call to action, eloquently expressed by the respected Sri Jacob Punnoose IPS at the inauguration of the Malankara Catholic Association’s action plans. “We must step forward to enact goodness in society,” he urged the gathered faithful, compelling the laity to be of service to the church, society, and the nation in these challenging times. He underscored the need for a missionary zeal to build the Kingdom of God, to be merciful, and to embody compassion towards all.
The event marked a significant moment as educational kits worth 1.5 lakhs were distributed to four schools, an initiative that reflects the Association’s commitment to nurturing young minds. The MCA’s quarterly spiritual publication was also launched, furthering the discourse of faith among the community.
The meeting, presided over by MCA Regional President Sri. Biju George, saw engaging conversations with the guidance of ecclesiastical advisor Rev. Fr. Mathew Vazhayil and regional vicar Fr. Mathew Punakkulam. The speeches by Fr. Santhosh Azhakath, Fr. Cherian Kurisummoottil, Georgekutty V.C., Anish V. Cherian, John Mammen, Shibu Abraham, Raju Alex, and Reji A.C., along with the inputs from Leelamma Babu, Valsamma John, Pushpa Nainan, Mini David, and Jaya Mathew, highlighted the diverse initiatives of the association. These included educational support, housing aid, food relief, and mission study assistance, all part of a holistic approach to community welfare.
This remarkable initiative by the Malankara Catholic Association underlines the transformative power of collective action and the unwavering commitment of the Syro-Malankara Church to extend its mission beyond the church walls, creating ripples of positive change across the broader society.
Mavelikara, India – March 13, 2024: The air in Punnamood is imbued with a sense of devout anticipation as the St. Mary’s Cathedral complex opens its doors to the faithful for a four-day Bible convention starting today, under the auspices of the Mavelikara Diocese of the Syro Malankara Catholic Church.
The Bible convention, a harbinger of the Lenten preparations, will run through to March 16, every evening from 5:00 PM to 8:30 PM and is set to be a confluence of spiritual leaders including Bishops Dr. Samuel Mar Ireneos, Antony Mar Silvanos, and Vincent Mar Paulos, who will grace the podium as keynote speakers.
In a press release by the Mavelikara Diocese, Bishop Dr. Joshua Mar Ignatios emphasized the convention’s role in “deepening the scriptural knowledge and enhancing the Lenten experience of the believers”. The organizing committee, led by Vicar General Msgr. Dr. Stephen Kulathumkarottu and Fr. Varghese Kunnathuparambil, has extended an invitation to all, reflecting the inclusivity and outreach of the Syro Malankara Catholic Church.
The ecclesiastical district has also organized a special assembly on the closing day, inviting priests, religious sisters, Sunday school children, youth, and laity to convene in a session helmed by Johnson Kaimalayil Corepiscopa, alongside Bishops Yuhanon Mar Theodosius, Christudas Rajappan, and Thomas Mar Eusebios.
Bishop Joshua Mar Ignatios shared, “The confluence of spiritual discourse and fellowship at this convention is a testament to our community’s dedication to faith and unity.”
With meticulous planning and a spirit of service, the Bible convention is poised to be an enriching spiritual encounter for all attendees, reinforcing the ecclesiastical district’s commitment to nurturing the faithful’s journey through Lent.
The Diocese extends its heartfelt gratitude to all who are involved in the organization and invites every member of the Syro Malankara Catholic Church to participate in this spiritually nourishing event.
For further information and daily schedules of the Bible convention, parishioners are encouraged to contact their local Ecclesiastical District offices.
In a renewed contribution to the historical and ecclesiastical scholarship, the Bethany Ashram has witnessed the launch of the much-anticipated book titled “Mar Thoma (St. Thomas) Christians of India,” authored by the esteemed Father Sylvester Kanjirammukalil OIC, in Malayalam. This event marks the fifteenth literary offering by Father Sylvester, who has dedicated his life to the study and teaching of church history with a focus on the Syro Malankara Catholic Church and the broader Christian community in India.
The publication ceremony, held at the Bethany Nagar Dayara in Thiruvananthapuram, was presided over by the Reverend Dr. Geevarghese Kuttiyil OIC, Superior of the Bethany Sannyasa Samudayam (Bethany Monastic Community), highlighting the book’s significance in shedding light on the historical paths of the Malankara Church. The first copy of this landmark publication was received by Father Thomas Sajeev OIC, the Superior of the Bethany Nagar Dayara.
Father Sylvester’s work emerges as an inspiration in the contemporary era, where the intricacies of history are often overshadowed or simplified. His scholarly pursuits extend beyond the confines of academic institutions, contributing profoundly to the seminars and educational programmes conducted at various seminaries across Kerala and the Bethany Vidyapeeth in Pune.
“Mar Thoma Christians of India” stands out for its accessible narrative style, making complex historical narratives approachable to a wider audience. Father Sylvester’s teaching methodologies and literary contributions have earned him a place of respect among theological scholars and students alike, with his works being a staple in seminary libraries.
The Thiruvananthapuram-based Bethany Nagar Dayara, where Father Sylvester continues his writing and research, serves as a hub for theological reflection and historical scholarship within the Syro Malankara Catholic Church. This latest publication not only adds to his esteemed body of work but also offers the faithful and scholars alike a window into the rich heritage of the Christian tradition in India, tracing its origins back to the apostolic era of St. Thomas.
As “Mar Thoma Christians of India” finds its place in academic and ecclesiastical circles, it underscores the importance of preserving church history and fostering a deeper understanding of our collective Christian heritage. This book launch, a celebration of Father Sylvester’s academic achievement, is a testament to the enduring spirit of inquiry that guides the Syro Malankara Catholic Church’s journey through history.
In a significant gesture of ecumenical solidarity, the Syro Malankara Catholic Church, under the auspices of the Thiruvalla Archeparchy, extended a warm welcome to Major Archbishop Mar Raphael Thattil of the Syro Malabar Church. This remarkable event took place at St. John’s Cathedral, Thiruvalla, symbolizing the deep-rooted Christian unity and the shared heritage of the two Churches.
The convivial reception for Archbishop Thattil was not merely a formal event but a profound demonstration of the mutual respect and affection between the Syro Malankara and Syro Malabar Churches. This occasion was a vivid reminder of the churches’ common mission in the world – to bear witness to the Gospel and to work together for the Kingdom of God.
Archbishop Thattil, who has been a prominent figure in fostering ecumenism and dialogue within the Christian community, expressed his gratitude for the warm reception. His presence in Thiruvalla was a powerful testament to the possibilities of collaboration and mutual support among the Christian denominations in Kerala and beyond.
Leaders and faithful from both churches came together to celebrate this unique fellowship, highlighting the event’s significance in promoting unity among the Christian communities. The speeches delivered during the reception resonated with themes of reconciliation, co-operation, and the shared commitment to serving the faithful.
This gathering was not only about celebrating the visit of a distinguished leader but also about reinforcing the bonds of brotherhood that exist between the Syro Malankara and Syro Malabar Churches. It underscored the importance of dialogue and partnership in the church’s mission in the modern world, where the witness of unity is more crucial than ever.
The event at St. John’s Cathedral in Thiruvalla will undoubtedly be remembered as a milestone in the journey towards greater unity among the Christian denominations in Kerala. It stands as an inspiration of hope for a future where Christians, despite their denominational differences, can come together to celebrate their common faith and work side by side in the vineyard of the Lord.
The Syro Malankara Catholic Church, by hosting this reception, has once again demonstrated its commitment to ecumenism and its desire to build bridges of understanding and cooperation with fellow Christian communities. As the echoes of this significant event fade, the message of unity and shared mission it heralded continues to inspire many towards fostering a more inclusive and collaborative Christian witness in the world.
The Malankara Catholic Mothers’ Forum (MCMF) marked a significant start to this year’s activities and celebrated International Women’s Day on March 8, 2024, at the Pattom Catholicate Centre, the headquarters of the Syro Malankara Catholic Church. The event, presided over by MCMF Secretary Mrs. Jiji Mathai, was a testament to the empowerment and recognition of women within the church community.
The inauguration of the annual action plan and the Women’s Day celebration were officiated by His Grace Yoohanon Mar Theodosius, the Metropolitan, showcasing the church’s commitment to uplifting its female members. The launch was a momentous occasion, highlighting the pivotal roles women play in the spiritual and community life of the church.
Father Mathew Arackal, the Diocesan Director, along with Mrs. Leelamma Babu and Mrs. Ani Santhosh, delivered inspiring Women’s Day messages, reflecting on the theme of empowerment, spiritual growth, and active participation of women in the church’s mission. Their speeches underscored the importance of women’s contributions to the church and society at large.
The event also featured a motivational class led by Mrs. Merlin Mathew, aimed at encouraging and inspiring the mothers present. The session focused on topics relevant to the challenges and opportunities faced by women today, providing valuable insights and encouragement for personal and spiritual growth.
The “MCMF Annual Plan Launch and International Women’s Day Celebration” was not just an event but a powerful statement on the valued place of women in the Malankara Syrian Catholic Church. It highlighted the church’s forward-thinking approach to inclusivity and equality, celebrating the achievements of its women while looking ahead to a year of fruitful engagements and contributions from the MCMF.
The event concluded with a sense of renewed zeal among the participants, as they looked forward to a year of activities geared towards nurturing the spiritual, emotional, and societal well-being of the women in the Malankara Syrian Catholic Church community.
