Rev. Dr. Geevarghese Kuttiyil OIC Meets His Holiness Pope Leo XIV During the Global Gathering of Superiors General in Rome

Late November in Rome often carries a quiet stillness, as though the city prepares itself for something gentle and true. It was during these reflective days that Rev. Dr. Geevarghese Kuttiyil OIC, Superior General of the Bethany Ashram, met His Holiness Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican while taking part in the Union of Superiors General assembly held on the 26th, 27th, and 28th of November.

For us in the Syro Malankara Catholic Church, his presence in this gathering is a reminder of the enduring light kindled by our beloved Venerable Archbishop Mar Ivanios. The vision that shaped Bethany continues to breathe through each of its seasons, inviting its members to hold prayer and service close to one another without strain or competition. Fr. Kuttiyil carries this heritage with a calm steadiness that has become familiar to those who know his leadership.

During his reflection to the assembly, His Holiness Pope Leo XIV spoke with the kind of clarity that has long marked his pastoral voice. He returned to the theme of prayer, describing it as the ground on which consecrated life stands firm. He reminded the Superiors General that the daily turning of the heart towards the Lord is the wellspring of all Christian witness. Without that interior nearness, community life can lose its warmth, and service can become thin and hurried. His words echoed truths our monastic tradition has held close for a century.

His Holiness reflected further on the bonds that shape religious communities. He invited the assembly to treasure patience, mutual care, and simple honesty as gifts that keep communal life steady through its different seasons. Within the Syro Malankara monastic story, where fraternity is woven into liturgy, prayer, and daily rhythm, such counsel feels both familiar and refreshing.

The Pope also spoke about the digital sphere, acknowledging its presence in daily life while urging religious communities to treat it with discernment. His reflection carried a gentle warning: technology can serve communion or weaken it, depending on the posture of the heart. His words will undoubtedly stay with many communities, including ours, as they teach, accompany, and communicate with the faithful across varied regions.

Fr. Kuttiyil’s participation in the assembly placed Bethany once again before the global Catholic communion with a quiet yet steady witness. Through him, the Syro Malankara Catholic Church stands present with its characteristic blend of contemplation and apostolic service, shaped by the heritage of our founding fathers and sustained by the prayers of countless men and women across the decades.

As we look upon this meeting with gratitude, we pray that the Lord may continue to guide Fr. Kuttiyil with wisdom and peace. May his ministry strengthen the congregation, deepen its spiritual life, and offer hope to all who look to Bethany Ashram as a home of prayer, formation, and gentle renewal.