Syro Malankara Catholic Church Thiruvalla Youth Visit Elderly in a Gesture of Love and Solidarity

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Syro Malankara Catholic Church Thiruvalla Youth Visit Elderly in a Gesture of Love and Solidarity

Thiruvalla, February 25, 2024 – In an inspiring display of community service and intergenerational solidarity, members of the Malankara Syrian Catholic Church Youth Movement (MCYM) from the Thiruvalla Ecclesiastical District spent a heartwarming evening at Mar Theophilos Snehabhavan in Puthanangady, Kottayam, visiting the cherished elderly residents. This visit, marking the 56th foundation day of the MCYM, showcased the vibrant spirit of the youth in serving the community with love and respect.

Led by Ecclesiastical District President Cyriac V. John, the youth group’s engagement with the elderly was part of a broader initiative to bridge the gap between generations within the church community. The visit on February 25th was not just a routine social call; it was a deliberate action to bring joy and companionship to those who often feel isolated or overlooked.

The evening began with the group organizing the dinner for the residents, a gesture that spoke volumes of the youth’s commitment to ‘faith in action’. The highlight of the visit was the shared cake-cutting ceremony, symbolizing celebration and unity. The presence of the youth brought smiles and laughter to the residents, proving once again that simple acts of kindness could make a significant difference in the lives of others.

In his address, Ecclesiastical District President Cyriac V. John conveyed the joy of the Youth Day celebration to the elderly, emphasizing the mutual benefits of such intergenerational interactions. The shared meal and conversations around the table were moments of genuine connection, breaking down barriers and fostering a sense of family among all present.

The Malankara Syrian Catholic Church’s youth wing extended its heartfelt gratitude to Fr. Varghese Pallikkal and Fr. Cyril Pattasseril for facilitating this meaningful encounter. Their support underscores the church’s dedication to nurturing a community that values and respects the dignity of every member, irrespective of age.

This event is a testament to the Syro Malankara Catholic Church’s ongoing commitment to social outreach and community engagement, reflecting the teachings of Christ in practical, impactful ways. As the Thiruvalla Ecclesiastical District Youth Movement continues to forge paths of service and solidarity, they set a shining example for their peers, inspiring a culture of care and compassion within the broader church community.

Malankara Syrian Catholic Church Youth Wing Unveils ‘ImpACT ’24’ in Trivandrum

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Malankara Syrian Catholic Church Youth Wing Unveils ‘ImpACT ’24’ in Trivandrum

Trivandrum, February 25, 2024 – The Malankara Catholic Youth Movement (MCYM) of the Trivandrum Major Archdiocese unveiled its ambitious annual action plan, titled IMPACT 2024, in a ceremony presided over by the esteemed Moran Mor Baselios Cardinal Cleemis Catholicos, head of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church and president of the Kerala Catholic Bishops’ Council. The event took place at St. John’s School Auditorium, Anchal, marking a significant step towards engaging the youth in the ecclesiastical district’s spiritual and social initiatives.

The inauguration was attended by distinguished church leaders, including the Archdiocese President Mr. Sijo C Joseph, General Secretary Mr. Joji Clement, and MCYM Director Rev. Fr. Joseph Thottathilkadayil, who collectively underscored the vital role of the youth in the church’s mission. The ceremony commenced with an introductory speech by the Archdiocesan General Secretary, Mr. Joji Clement, highlighting the movement’s objectives for the forthcoming year.

His Beatitude Cardinal Cleemis, in his inaugural address, emphasised the importance of youth participation in the church’s pastoral activities and commended the MCYM for its dedication to fostering a vibrant, faith-driven youth community. The cardinal’s blessing set a hopeful tone for the year’s activities, focusing on youth empowerment and the cultivation of spiritual values.

The event also featured insightful sessions led by notable speakers, including Rev. Fr. Daniel Kadakampallil and Rev. Fr. Rino Irupathinchal, who shared their perspectives on youth and family ministry within the context of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church. The seminars aimed to equip young families with the tools to navigate the complexities of contemporary life while remaining grounded in their faith.

Representatives from nine ecclesiastical districts participated in the launch, demonstrating the widespread support for the MCYM’s initiatives across the Trivandrum Major Archdiocese. The program concluded with a musical band performance, celebrating the collective spirit and enthusiasm of the Malankara Catholic youth.

This year’s action plan, IMPACT 2024, is a testament to the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church’s commitment to nurturing a dynamic and engaged youth community. As the church looks forward to a year filled with impactful activities, the guidance of leaders like Cardinal Cleemis and the proactive involvement of the youth promise to pave the way for a fruitful and spiritually enriching 2024-2025.

Syro-Malankara Catholic Church Lays Foundation Stone for New Church in Nedumangad Ecclesiastical District

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Syro-Malankara Catholic Church Lays Foundation Stone for New Church in Nedumangad Ecclesiastical District

Thiruvananthapuram: The Syro-Malankara Catholic Church marked a memorable day on the 25th of February 2024, as the foundation stone for a new church was blessed and laid at Mundela parish in the Nedumangad Ecclesiastical District of the Major Archdiocese of Trivandrum. His Beatitude Cardinal Baselios Cleemis Catholicos, the Major Archbishop, presided over the auspicious ceremony, infusing the congregation with a sense of spiritual zeal and communal solidarity.

The event was a significant milestone for the local parish community, which has eagerly anticipated the construction of the new church. It is envisioned as a spiritual hub for the faithful in the area, providing a space for worship, reflection, and gathering. Cardinal Cleemis, with a prayerful disposition, imparted blessings upon the foundation stone, symbolically rooting the future church in the rich soil of faith and tradition that characterises the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church.

The ceremony was attended by a host of clergy from the ecclesiastical district, along with a vibrant assembly of parishioners, who collectively celebrated the commencement of this sacred undertaking. The laying of the foundation stone signifies not only the physical construction of a new church edifice but also the laying down of renewed commitment to the Christian mission and the strengthening of community bonds.

The new church at Mundela is expected to become a cornerstone for the spiritual growth of the Syro-Malankara Catholic community in the region. It represents the ongoing expansion and vitality of the Church, continuing its mission to serve the spiritual needs of its members while contributing to the broader ecclesial life.

As the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church looks to the future, the construction of the new church in Mundela stands as a beacon of hope and a testament to the enduring faith of its people. The community, inspired by the leadership of Cardinal Cleemis and fortified by the prayers of the entire Church, eagerly anticipates the day the church doors will open, welcoming all to a new sanctuary of worship and fellowship.

Gurgaon-Delhi Diocese Embarks on a New Year with Renewed Mission

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Gurgaon-Delhi Diocese Embarks on a New Year with Renewed Mission

Gurgaon, February 25, 2024 – The Malankara Catholic Association of the Gurgaon-Delhi Diocese unveiled its annual action plan for 2024-2025 in an event that took place during the Diocesan Pastoral Council meeting in Delhi. The release was presided over by the esteemed Bishop Thomas Mar Anthonios, marking a pivotal moment for the diocese’s roadmap for the coming year.

The event, held at the Eparchy of Saint John Chrysostom of Gurgaon (Syro-Malankara), was a gathering of the diocese’s clergy and laity, illustrating the collaborative spirit that drives the Syro Malankara Catholic Church. The annual action plan, meticulously crafted to guide the diocese in its pastoral, social, and evangelical endeavours, was unveiled by Bishop Thomas Mar Anthonios in a ceremony that symbolised the shared commitment of the church members to their faith and community.

Among those present were key figures from the diocese, including Fr. George John Cheenatt, Fr. John Felix, Shaji Uzhatil, Shaji John, Sabu Samuel, Tessy Raj, Abraham, Varghese Mammen, Joshi V. Isaac, and Regi Thomas. Their participation highlighted the collective effort and unity within the diocese, reinforcing the importance of lay collaboration in achieving the church’s mission.

Bishop Thomas Mar Anthonios, in his address, emphasized the significance of the action plan as a beacon for the diocese’s journey through the year.

The annual action plan’s release is not just a procedural occurrence but a testament to the Gurgaon-Delhi Diocese’s dedication to adapt and respond to the needs of its community dynamically. It reflects a holistic approach towards ministry, focusing on spiritual growth, social justice, and the cultivation of a vibrant, faith-filled community.

As the Eparchy of Saint John Chrysostom of Gurgaon embarks on this new ecclesiastical year, the action plan serves as a roadmap, guiding the diocese in its mission to spread the gospel, serve the needy, and build a community rooted in the values of the Syro Malankara Catholic Church. The congregation, inspired by the leadership of Bishop Thomas Mar Anthonios and the commitment of its members, looks forward to a year of fruitful ministries and deepened faith.

New Apostolate for Young Families Launched in Puttur Diocese

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New Apostolate for Young Families Launched in Puttur Diocese

Puttur, February 25, 2024 – The Malankara Syrian Catholic Church’s Puttur Diocese witnessed the historic inauguration of a new apostolate dedicated to young families, marking a significant stride towards fostering faith and togetherness within the ecclesiastical community. The event, which took place on February 25, 2024, was presided over by the esteemed Bishop Geevarghese Mar Makarios, the Diocesan Bishop of Puttur, underlining the Church’s commitment to nurturing the spiritual life of its younger members.

The ceremony, hosted in the vibrant locale of the Puttur Diocese, was introduced by Father Thomas Madukkamoottil, the diocesan secretary, who provided an insightful overview of the mission and vision of the newly formed Young Family Apostolate. This initiative is poised to become a cornerstone for young couples and families, guiding them in their spiritual journey and community engagement.

Bishop Geevarghese Mar Makarios, in his inaugural address, blessed the gathering and articulated his hopes for the apostolate to serve as a dynamic platform for spiritual growth and mutual support among young families. The event also saw enriching talks from Father Daniel Kadakampallil, the director of the Young Family Apostolate; Father Rino Irunpanthanchil, the cathedral vicar; and Animator Sister Kripa S.I.C., who delved into the objectives and anticipated impact of this ecclesiastical endeavour.

The gathering was further embellished with educational sessions led by Brother Soy, aimed at addressing the unique challenges and opportunities that young couples face. These sessions were designed to equip them with the knowledge and skills needed for building resilient, faith-filled homes.

Families from various parishes across the South Canara region participated in the event, reflecting the apostolate’s wide appeal and the shared enthusiasm for fostering a vibrant, spiritually enriched community life. This initiative underscores the Syro Malankara Catholic Church’s dedication to supporting its members at every stage of their familial and spiritual journey, with a particular focus on the holistic development of young families.

As the Puttur Diocese embarks on this new chapter, the launch of the Young Family Apostolate promises to invigorate the ecclesiastical districts with renewed zeal for faith, fellowship, and service. It stands as a testament to the Church’s enduring commitment to cultivating an environment where young families can thrive spiritually, supported by the collective wisdom and guidance of the community.

The Mannanthala St. John Paul II Malankara Syriac Catholic Church: An Epitome of Interfaith Harmony During Attukal Pongala

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The Mannanthala St. John Paul II Malankara Syriac Catholic Church: An Epitome of Interfaith Harmony During Attukal Pongala

Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, 25 February 2024 – As the city of Thiruvananthapuram is adorned with piety and the spiritual symphony of the Attukal Pongala festival, the St. John Paul II Malankara Syriac Catholic Church in Mannanthala stands as a beacon of faith and a paradigm of interfaith harmony.

The annual Attukal Pongala festival, a revered tradition cherished by women in Kerala, is celebrated with grandeur and collective spirit. It is here at the Attukal Bhagavathy Temple that the world witnesses the largest gathering of women – a phenomenon so profound that it has etched its name in the Guinness World Records. This cultural needlework weaves together strands of devotion as thousands of women prepare the sacred Pongala offering, a ritual sweet rice pudding, to appease and honour Goddess Bhagavathy.

In this unique celebration of divine femininity, which unfurls across the city during the Malayalam month of Kumbham, the St. John Paul II Malankara Syriac Catholic Church has emerged as a sanctuary of solace and support. In an act of communal solidarity and respect for the sacred festivities, the church has graciously altered its schedule, postponing its morning Mass and other liturgical services, to accommodate the throngs of devotees. The church’s auditorium and parking spaces are open to the pilgrims, providing a space for rest, reflection, and participation in the Pongala rituals.

Established in 2012 by His Beatitude Moran Mor Baselios Cardinal Cleemis Catholicos, the church has swiftly become an integral part of the spiritual landscape of Mannanthala. As the Navathi Memorial Church within the Major Archdiocese of Trivandrum, it resonates with the legacy of its namesake, St. John Paul II, echoing a message of love, peace, and unity that transcends religious boundaries.

The Attukal Pongala festival and the St. John Paul II Malankara Syriac Catholic Church may represent diverse faiths, yet they stand united in the cause of spiritual upliftment and communal harmony. This synergy is a beautiful testament to Thiruvananthapuram’s ethos of religious coexistence and mutual respect. As the city awakens to the chants of prayers and the warmth of the Pongala flames, it is a reminder of the cohesive fabric of society that thrives on cooperation, understanding, and shared reverence.

Let us, therefore, embrace the essence of these celebrations, where the spirituality of the people is a binding force, creating a mosaic of cultural and religious unity. As the festivities of Attukal Pongala unfold, the St. John Paul II Malankara Syriac Catholic Church stands proud, not just as a structure of stone and mortar, but as a monument to the indomitable spirit of togetherness and the enduring power of faith.

The Ivanion Bhavan Dream Project Celebrates the Blessing of the Second Home in Chanthavila

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The Ivanion Bhavan Dream Project Celebrates the Blessing of the Second Home in Chanthavila

The Malankara Syrian Catholic Church in Sharjah has joyfully witnessed the realization of a long-held dream with the consecration of the first house under the auspicious ‘Ivanion Bhavan’ initiative. The inaugural blessing ceremony was carried out with great reverence and beauty under the leadership of His Excellency Bishop Thomas Mar Koorilos. The Sharjah community, whose collective efforts and prayers have borne fruit, is deeply grateful and prays for God’s abundant blessings to continue on this noble endeavour.

The vision of ‘Ivanion Bhavanam’ has now seen the completion of its second dwelling in Chanthavila, Thiruvananthapuram. The ceremony of blessing, slated for February 24th, was presided over by the esteemed Moran Mor Baselios Cardinal Cleemis Catholicos, the revered head and father of the Malankara Syrian Catholic Church. The event marks a significant milestone in the community’s mission to provide homes for the deserving.

In a heartfelt address from the residence of the beneficiary, Mr Sebastian, Cardinal Cleemis extended his gratitude to the Sharjah community for their exceptional contribution. Four homes, fully furnished, stand as a testament to the Sharjah community’s embodiment of Christ’s love and commitment to service. Cardinal Cleemis expressed his pride in the community, recognising them as exemplary members of the Syro Malankara Catholic Church and commending their life-giving and spiritual efforts.

As the sun set on this remarkable day, the Sharjah community was represented by Mr. Abraham M, Mr. Tony, Mr. Suresh, and Mr. Varghese. Through them, the spirit of the entire community was palpably present. Cardinal Cleemis, with heartfelt thanks, acknowledged the efforts of all, especially the diligent work of Vicar Fr. Reji Manakkalettu in the selection of the most deserving families to receive these homes, ensuring the church’s witness to Jesus.

The homes at Kumbalathanam and Kumily await their blessings, with details to be announced soon. This initiative underscores the Sharjah community’s dedication to serving as a beacon of Christian life.

Cardinal Cleemis’s message was clear: the church rejoices and is grateful for the parishioners, youth, and children whose witness to God’s mercy is unwavering. As the Ivanion Bhavan project continues to grow, it stands as a symbol of hope, unity, and the transformative power of faith in action.

Syro-Malankara Catholic Church Announces the Inaugural All Canada Family Conference

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Syro-Malankara Catholic Church Announces the Inaugural All Canada Family Conference

Calgary, Alberta – The Syro-Malankara Catholic Church in Canada is poised to host its inaugural All Canada Syro-Malankara Family Conference on the 29th and 30th of June 2024. Themed “Possibilities and Challenges of Syro-Malankara Families Living in Canada,” the conference is set to take place in the scenic city of Calgary, at 3314 49 St SW, bringing together the community from across the nation.

This landmark event will offer a platform for panel discussions and workshops focusing on the spiritual, moral, ecclesiastical, educational, professional, economic, and social aspects that influence the lives of Syro-Malankara families in the diaspora. The conference seeks to address the integral needs of the community, fostering unity, faith formation, and addressing the pertinent challenges faced by families.

The conference is of particular relevance, given the Church’s significant presence in Canada for over 35 years. With communities established in cities such as Calgary, Edmonton, Vancouver, and Toronto, the event represents a pivotal moment for the Syro-Malankara Catholics in fostering a cohesive and vibrant ecclesial life.

Registrations for the conference are now open, and participants are encouraged to secure their spots promptly to be part of this momentous occasion. The event promises to be not just a gathering, but a catalyst for ecclesial and familial renewal, deepening the faith and bonds among the Syro-Malankara Catholics in Canada.

The Church has also arranged for hotel accommodations at the Best Western Premier Calgary Plaza Hotel & Conference Centre, where attendees can enjoy a special discount. For the convenience of the participants, a rental car discount has been organized with Avis, ensuring comfortable and affordable transportation options for those attending.

Furthermore, to enrich the experience, a full-day tour arrangement is available, featuring the breathtaking sights of Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and Banff. This excursion offers an opportunity for families to explore the natural splendour of Canada’s landscapes.

The registration process is simple and can be completed online, with details available on the Church’s website. The organizers encourage early registration to ensure a seamless experience. The conference is open to all, with a modest fee for adults and a reduced rate for children, making it accessible for families.

As the date approaches, the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church looks forward to welcoming its members to Calgary for a time of fellowship, reflection, and celebration that promises to strengthen the bonds of community and faith.

For more information, including details on registration, accommodations, and the tour, please contact Fr. Ajeesh and Fr. Daiju at the numbers provided in the conference announcement.

The 28th Holy Synod of the Malankara Syrian Catholic Church Concludes Successfully

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The 28th Holy Synod of the Malankara Syrian Catholic Church Concludes Successfully

In an assembly radiating with divine grace and ecclesiastical tradition, the 28th Holy Synod of the Syro Malankara Catholic Church reached its culmination. Held from the 19th to the 22nd of February 2024, at the Catholicate Centre, the Synod was presided over by the church’s esteemed leader and father, Moran Mor Baselios Cardinal Cleemis Catholicos.

The Synod witnessed the active participation of all the bishops of the church, engaging in deliberations that spanned various dimensions of ecclesial life. The discussions ranged from administrative to pastoral, highlighting the church’s unwavering dedication to its flock’s spiritual and temporal welfare.

During the four-day convocation, each day was marked by significant meetings that addressed different facets of the church’s mission. On the 20th, financial officers of the church met to discuss the stewardship of resources, while the 21st was dedicated to secretaries of various Synod commissions who convened to review ongoing projects and initiatives. The final day was significant as it included meetings with the provincials and general superiors of religious communities, emphasizing the collaborative spirit that propels the church forward.

In a landmark decision, the Synod laid out the blueprint for the Centenary Celebrations of the Malankara Reunion Movement. This historic centenary, marking a hundred years since the momentous event, is set to commence in September 2024 in the Parassala Eparchy. A six-year preparatory phase leading up to the centenary year in 2030 was outlined, with the centennial year itself declared as a Year of Thanksgiving.

The Synod also expressed its profound concern over the current challenges faced by secular values and democratic institutions in India. A clarion call was made for all to stand united, transcending caste and religious differences, to counteract the growing instances of sectarianism and conflict. The bishops advocated for the election of individuals who uphold freedom, life values, and culture as envisaged by the constitution.

In a show of solidarity, the Synod extended its heartfelt sympathies to the families of those affected by the menace of wild animal threats in the high ranges. It called upon the central and state governments to enact urgent legislative measures to address this crisis and to ensure adequate compensation and protection to the affected families.

For the first time in its history, the Malankara Syrian Catholic Church resolved to establish the Malankara Catholic Council, a representative body inclusive of bishops, clergy, religious, and laity. This council symbolizes a progressive step towards fostering a participatory approach in addressing the needs and aspirations of the church community.

The 28th Holy Synod of the Malankara Syrian Catholic Church stands as a testimony to the church’s resolve to navigate the complexities of the modern world while remaining steadfast in its faith and traditions. The seeds of deliberation sown in these four days are poised to bear fruit in the years to come, as the church journeys onward under the divine providence and the wise stewardship of its shepherd, Moran Mor Baselios Cardinal Cleemis Catholicos.

Syro-Malankara Catholic Church Commemorates the 81st Memorial of Bishop Thomas Mar Dioscoros

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Syro-Malankara Catholic Church Commemorates the 81st Memorial of Bishop Thomas Mar Dioscoros

In a solemn remembrance filled with devotion and gratitude, the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church observed the 81st Memorial of the revered Bishop Thomas Mar Dioscoros. The Pattom Catholicate Centre Chapel in Thiruvananthapuram was the setting for the sacred occasion where the Holy Mass was followed by a special incense prayer service. The ceremony was graced by the presence and leadership of His Beatitude Baselios Cleemis Catholicos, the Major Archbishop of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church, along with the venerated fathers of the Church who co-officiated the service.

Bishop Thomas Mar Dioscoros, a luminary of faith and a pivotal figure in the Malankara Catholic Reunion Movement, continues to inspire the Church with his enduring legacy. His ecclesiastical journey, marked by profound scholarship and pastoral care, is a testament to his deep commitment to the Church’s mission.

Tracing the Legacy of Bishop Thomas Mar Dioscoros

Born into the esteemed Thenalady Family in Chingavanam, Thomas Mar Dioscoros was ordained as a deacon at the age of eighteen by Bishop Mar Gregorios of Parumala. His zeal for spiritual matters and proficiency in the Syriac language and liturgical practices led him to be ordained a priest and later consecrated as a bishop, taking the name Mar Diascoros. During his tenure as the head of the Knanaya diocese, he spearheaded numerous initiatives that propelled the community forward.

In 1939, Bishop Mar Dioscoros embraced the historic Malankara Reunion, entering into communion with the Malankara Catholic Church, a move that demonstrated his commitment to church unity and his visionary leadership. His passing on 21 February 1943 was a moment of profound loss for the Church. Today, he rests in peace beside St. Thomas Bethany Church, Tirumoolapuram, leaving behind a spiritual legacy that continues to guide and inspire.

Commemorating a Pillar of the Church

The memorial service, conducted with reverence and solemnity, was an opportunity for the Church to reflect on the indelible impact of Bishop Thomas Mar Dioscoros. The incense prayer, a symbolic act of veneration, lifted the congregation’s prayers to the heavens, remembering a shepherd who dedicated his life to the gospel and the well-being of his flock.

His Beatitude Baselios Cleemis Catholicos, in his homily, highlighted the virtuous path of Bishop Mar Dioscoros, calling on the faithful to draw inspiration from his life of service, unity, and devotion. The gathering was not just a remembrance but a renewal of the Church’s commitment to the values upheld by Bishop Mar Dioscoros.

The Syro-Malankara Catholic Church, while celebrating the legacy of such a stalwart figure, reaffirms its dedication to the teachings of the apostles and the unifying vision of Archbishop Geevarghese Ivanios. The Church continues to walk in the light of those who have shepherded it through the ages, with Bishop Thomas Mar Dioscoros’s memory serving as a beacon of faith, leadership, and ecclesiastical harmony.

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