Six deacons were ordained to the priesthood for the Archdiocese of Thiruvalla on December 26, 2023, at St. John’s Metropolitan Cathedral in Thiruvalla. The ordination was led by His Grace Thomas Mar Koorilos Metropolitan Archbishop, with the co-officiating of His Grace Antony Mar Silvanos Episcopa, the curia bishop, and Right Rev. Dr. Mathai Kadavil O.I.C., the newly appointed metropolitan for Khadki Pune region.
In a heartening display of interfaith appreciation, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently celebrated the vital contributions of the Christian community in India. This gesture of acknowledgment occurred during a special interaction with Christian leaders on December 25th, commemorating the Christmas festivities at his official residence in New Delhi.
During this significant meeting, Prime Minister Modi, who has led India for a decade, highlighted the integral role of the Christian community in shaping the nation’s history, including its struggle for independence. He reminisced about the Christian intellectuals and leaders who left an indelible mark on India’s freedom narrative, citing Mahatma Gandhi’s acknowledgment of Sushil Kumar Rudra, the then-principal of St. Stephen’s College, in the conception of the Non-Cooperation Movement.
The Prime Minister’s speech also touched on the Christian community’s active involvement in societal betterment, particularly their dedication to serving the underprivileged and their significant strides in the fields of education and healthcare.
In the spirit of Christmas, Prime Minister Modi extended warm holiday greetings to the Christian community and expressed his gratitude for their participation in the event, which was organized in collaboration with the Indian Minority Foundation. He reflected fondly on his long-standing relationship with the Christian community, tracing back to his tenure as the Chief Minister of Gujarat, and his memorable interaction with Pope Francis in 2021.
Modi emphasized the discussions he had with the Pope, which spanned topics like social harmony, global brotherhood, climate change, and inclusive development. He noted the alignment of these discussions with the values embodied by Jesus Christ, particularly those of compassion, service, and the pursuit of an inclusive society where justice is accessible to all.
The Prime Minister drew parallels between the teachings of the Bible and the philosophies inherent in Indian culture, like those found in the Upanishads, underscoring the universal value of truth and service. He called for a united front, built on these shared values and heritage, to propel India into a brighter future.
Looking ahead to India’s goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047, Modi stressed the critical role of the youth and the importance of their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. He urged the community leaders to support initiatives promoting fitness, nutrition, and the fight against substance abuse.
In the spirit of Christmas, a time traditionally associated with gift-giving, the Prime Minister advocated for a commitment to sustainability, aligning with the principles of Mission LiFE. This global movement, spearheaded by India, encourages a sustainable lifestyle, focusing on recycling, the use of biodegradable materials, and a minimal carbon footprint. Modi expressed his confidence in the Christian community’s significant role in this eco-conscious mission.
The event was graced by prominent Christian leaders, including Cardinal Oswald Gracias, Archbishop Anil Couto, Bishop Paul Swarup, St. Stephen’s College principal John Varghese, Father Kevin J. Kimtis, second secretary of the Vatican Embassy, and Bishop Thomas Mar Antonios of Gurgaon Syro-Malankara Church among others, marking a moment of unity and mutual respect across religious lines.
The youth group of the Indian Syro-Malankara Catholic Church from Bonn, under the guidance of Father Dr. Joseph Chelamparambath, recently visited the mother house of Communio in Christo in Mechernich to share the joyous tradition of singing “Christmas Carols.” This event was a blend of cultural exchange and festive celebration, bringing together the vibrant Indian Christmas tradition and the serene spirituality of Communio in Christo.
Communio in Christo, founded in 1968 by Mother Marie Therese, is a religious order inspired by the spirituality of St. Francis of Assisi and St. Clare of Assisi. The order, based in Mechernich, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, emphasizes living in communion with Christ and all people. It has extended its presence across several continents, including Austria, Poland, Belarus, India, Pakistan, the USA, and various African countries.
During the visit, Father Joseph explained the significance of the Indian tradition of visiting community families during Christmas to spread the Good News through carols. This visit marked the group’s second Christmas season at Mechernich, a tradition that began last year due to the Bonn parish community’s connection with Tilj Puthenveettil, a resident of Mechernich.
The evening was a delightful mix of ages and cultures, from the youngest participant, five-month-old Nathan, to 94-year-old Sister Dorothea. Generalsuperior Jaison Thazhathil warmly welcomed the group, highlighting the unity and joy that such cultural exchanges bring.
The event concluded with a convivial gathering, where everyone enjoyed pizza and drinks, followed by a multilingual rendition of the Christmas classic “Silent Night.” This gathering not only celebrated the festive season but also the shared spirit of community and care that Communio in Christo exemplifies through its social work organization, Sozialwerk Communio in Christo e.V. This organization is renowned for providing compassionate care to hospice patients, the severely disabled, and the elderly in Mechernich and Blankenheim.
Reflecting on the evening, both the youth group and the members of Communio in Christo expressed their contentment and joy, affirming the beauty of coming together in fellowship and song.
Photo Credit: Communio in Christo News Credit: Stadt Mechernich
Sister Paulin S.I.C., a member of the Bethany Sisters of the Imitation of Christ, Thiruvananthapuram Province, passed away on December 18, 2023, at the age of 91.
The funeral service will be held on December 21, 2023, at the Bethany Convent Cemetery in Nalanchira, under the leadership of His Grace Mathews Mar Polycarpos, Corepiscopa of the Major Archidiocese of Thiruvananthapuram.
Sister Paulin was born in 1932 in the village of Nalanchira, Kerala. She joined the Bethany Sisters of the Imitation of Christ in 1952 and was professed in 1955. She served in various capacities in the congregation, including as a teacher, a nurse, and a counselor. She was also a member of the congregation’s leadership team.
Sister Pauline was a dedicated and compassionate woman who dedicated her life to serving God and others. She will be remembered for her love of God, her commitment to her faith, and her service to the church and society.
Revered George Pokkathayil Achan from the Bathery Diocese passed away due to cardiac arrest on December 17, 2023, at the age of 40. He was ordained on April 4, 2010, by the blessed and venerable Geevarghese Mar Divannasios Metropolitan for the Bathery Diocese. He served as the Vice Rector of Gurukulam Minor Seminary, the Spiritual Advisor of the M.C.A. of the Diocese, Director of Shreyas, member of the Diocesan Priests Council, and has served as the vicar in various parishes in the diocese. At the time of his demise, he was serving as the vicar of Chunkathara St. Mary’s Malankara Syrian Catholic Church.
The funeral services will be held on December 18, 2023, at 10:30 AM at the Kelakam Little Flower Church, followed by the burial at the cemetery of St. George Church in Adaykathode, his maternal parish. The services will be led by Moran Mor Baselios Cardinal Cleemis Catholicos, the head and father of the Church, His Grace Joseph Mar Thomas, the Metropolitan of Bathery Diocese, and His Grace Geevarghese Mar Makarios, the Metropolitan of Puttur Diocese.
May the Lord grant eternal rest to the departed soul, who has offered holy sacraments like the forefathers and priests.
The newly appointed Metropolitan of the Khadki-Pune St. Ephrem Diocese of the Malankara Syrian Catholic Church, Right Rev. Msgr. Dr. Mathai Kadavil O.I.C, will be ordained as Ramban on January 9, 2024, at the Poothrikka Church in the Muvattupuzha Diocese. The episcopal consecration ceremony will be held on February 15, 2024, at the Mount Mar Ivanios Center in the Khadki-Pube St. Ephrem Diocese. Moran Mor Baselios Cardinal Cleemis Catholicos, the head and father of the Malankara Syrian Catholic Church, will preside over the episcopal consecration service.
The literary and environmental world will come together for a year-long celebration of writer and activist Sugathakumari’s 90th birth anniversary (Navathi) in 2024. A grand committee, including Major Archbishop Cardinal Baselios Cleemis Catholicos of the Syro Malankara Catholic Church, renowned spiritual leader Swami Gururethnam Jnana Thapaswi, and community leader Palayam Imam V.P. Suhaib Moulavi as patrons, has been formed to organize events throughout the year.
Remembering Sugathakumari’s unwavering commitment to nature and social justice, the committee plans to establish a Sugathakumari chair at the University of Kerala, dedicate a memorial school in her name, and even propose a Sugathakumari center at the Texas University. These initiatives aim to perpetuate her legacy and inspire future generations.
The year will be marked by commemorative events, tree-planting drives involving students, poetry recitals, and artistic competitions. Mark your calendars for the December 23rd memorial meeting, a poignant tribute to Sugathakumari’s impactful life.
Fr. Geevarghese Kuttiyil was appointed as the Superior General of the Bethany religious community on December 13, 2023. He is a member of the Bethany Navajeevan Province. Having earned his postgraduate degree and doctorate in Canon Law from the Pontifical Oriental Institute in Rome, Fr. Geevarghese has served as the Provincial Superior of the Bethany Navajeevan Province and as the Director of the Pune Vidyajyoti.
In a historic announcement on December 12, 2023, at 4:30 PM IST, His Holiness Pope Francis appointed Rt. Rev. Msgr. Dr. Mathai Kadavil OIC, the esteemed Superior General of Bethany Ashram, as the new Bishop of the Syro Malankara Catholic Eparchy of St. Ephrem in the Khadki Pune Region.
Biographical Insights:
Born in 1963 in Rupathani, Moovattupuzha, Rev. Dr. Mathai Kadavil OIC hails from the Malankara Syrian Catholic Idavaka of Pooyappally St. James.
After joining the Bethany Missionary Ashram in 1979, he pursued his philosophy and theology studies at Pune Papal Seminary, culminating in his ordination as a priest on October 9, 1989.
Rev. Dr. Mathai Kadavil OIC furthered his academic journey with postgraduate and doctoral studies in theology at the Catholic University of Leuven, Belgium.
Ecclesiastical Achievements:
As a distinguished scholar and spiritual leader, Rev. Dr. Mathai Kadavil OIC has been a fervent advocate for the preservation and promotion of the Syriac heritage of the Malankara Church.
His dedication to ecumenical dialogue is evident through his involvement in the Joint International Commission for Theological Dialogue between the Catholic Church and the Oriental Orthodox Churches.
Academic Contributions:
Rev. Dr. Mathai Kadavil OIC’s scholarly pursuits include a Ph.D. in Syriac Studies from the Pontifical Oriental Institute, Rome. Noteworthy publications include “The Anaphora of Mar Theodore of Mopsuestia: A Study and Translation” (2017) and “The Syriac Liturgical Heritage of the Malankara Church” (2020).
Current Responsibilities:
Serving as the Superior and Rector of Bethany Ashram in Pune, he oversees seminarian formation and pastoral activities in Malankara parishes around Pune.
Additionally, he holds the position of a resident professor at Bethany Vedavijnana Peeth (BVP), teaching courses on Syriac language, liturgy, spirituality, and history.
Episcopal Jurisdiction:
The Syro-Malankara Catholic Eparchy of St. Ephrem in the Khadki Pune Region is the first of its kind outside the canonical territory of Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
Covering an expansive area of 1,024,000 square kilometers, this eparchy caters to approximately 15,000 Syro-Malankara Catholics across Maharashtra, Goa, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and parts of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka.
Recognition and Welcome:
Acknowledging the historical significance of this appointment, His Eminence Cardinal Baselios Cleemis Catholicos, the head of the Malankara Syrian Catholic Church, expressed his approval.
The announcement ceremony, held at St. Mary’s Major Archiepiscopal Cathedral, Pattom, witnessed the warm welcome extended by Archbishop Dr. Thomas Mar Koorilos Metropolitan and other dignitaries.
In assuming the leadership of the Pune-Khadki St. Ephrem Eparchy, Rev. Dr. Mathai Kadavil OIC brings a wealth of knowledge, spirituality, and a deep commitment to furthering the rich heritage of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church. His Holiness Pope Francis, along with the entire community, looks forward to witnessing the continued growth and flourishing of the Church under his guidance.
Rev. Dr. Mathai Kadavil OIC is a renowned scholar and a spiritual leader who is committed to the promotion and preservation of the Syriac heritage of the Malankara Church. He is also involved in the ecumenical dialogue and cooperation among the various Christian churches in India and abroad. He is a member of the Joint International Commission for Theological Dialogue between the Catholic Church and the Oriental Orthodox Churches.
In a remarkable display of interfaith harmony, the Thiruvananthapuram Tirusannidhi Aramanna recently witnessed an exceptional gathering. This special event was a luncheon hosted for the venerable Metropolitans of the Mar Thoma Church, under the gracious patronage of His Beatitude Baselios Cleemis, the Catholicos of the Malankara Syrian Catholic Church.
The luncheon, characterized by a spirit of ecumenical fellowship, served as a significant opportunity to celebrate the unity among various church leaders. It was a momentous occasion where the Metropolitans of the Mar Thoma Church and the Catholicos Baselios Cleemis engaged in meaningful dialogues, focusing on inter-denominational cooperation and mutual understanding.
This event marked a significant milestone in reinforcing inter-church camaraderie and underscored the importance of dialogue and cooperation among different Christian communities. The gathering at the Thirusannidhi aramanna was more than just a meeting; it was a powerful symbol of the unity and shared values that transcend denominational boundaries within the Christian faith.
Through this event, the leaders demonstrated a commitment to fostering a sense of unity and cooperation, which is essential for the growth and harmony of the Christian community at large. The Thiruvananthapuram meeting stands as a testament to the possibilities of collaborative spirit and mutual respect in the journey of faith.
