In a gathering marked by reverence and celebration, His Eminent Beatitude Cardinal Moran Mor Baselios Cleemis Catholicos honoured two distinguished pillars of the Malankara Syrian Catholic community. The occasion featured the presentation of the book David’s Harp – authored by Rt. Rev. Msgr. Dr. Johnson Kaimala Corepiscopo – to the Opposition Leader V. D. Satheesan, alongside a heartfelt tribute to Rev. Fr. Philip Chempakassery, a venerable priest marking fifty years of faithful service in the Syro Malankara Catholic Church.
The day was also graced by the presence of His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Joshua Mar Ignathios, Bishop Administrator of Mavelikara; His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Samuel Mar Irenios, Bishop of Pathanamthitta; and His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Antony Mar Silvanos, Bishop of the Major Archiepiscopal Curia.
The book David’s Harp (Malayalam: ദാവീദിൻ്റെ കിന്നരം), penned by Rt. Rev. Msgr. Dr. Johnson Kaimala Corepiscopo, reflects a rich volume of theological insight and spiritual reflection. Msgr. Johnson, a scholar and priest widely respected for his erudition and pastoral sensitivity, has long been an influential voice within the Church and academic circles. His writings illuminate the profound depths of faith, inviting readers to engage with Scripture and Christian tradition in fresh and compelling ways.
In the same assembly, the Church paid tribute to Rev. Fr. Philip Chempakassery, a stalwart servant and spiritual guide whose vocation has spanned over five decades. Ordained in the early 1970s, Fr. Philip has shepherded the faithful through decades of change with unwavering devotion and pastoral care. His ministry is characterised by deep humility, rich theological knowledge, and an abiding love for the Church’s traditions. Throughout his long service, Fr. Philip has been a mentor to many priests and a source of spiritual strength for countless families. His life stands as a testament to faithful perseverance and the enduring call to serve God’s people.
His Eminent Beatitude Cardinal Cleemis led the ceremony, imparting blessings and words of gratitude for both the author and the venerable priest. The event was marked by a spirit of thanksgiving for the gifts of scholarship and steadfast pastoral ministry, which continue to enrich the Syro Malankara Catholic community.
As we celebrate this occasion, we are reminded of the vital role played by such dedicated individuals, both in articulating the faith through scholarship and in living it through decades of humble service. Their examples inspire us all to deepen our own commitment to the Church and to the Gospel mission.
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