On September 28th, 2024, the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church community in Germany joyfully celebrated the 94th anniversary of the Reunion Movement at the Guter Hirte Kirche in Mannheim. Organised by the Pastoral Council of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church Germany and the St. Peter & St. Paul Syro-Malankara Catholic Community, the event brought together clergy, religious sisters, and the faithful from across Germany to mark this significant occasion of unity and devotion.
Liturgical Reception of His Excellency Mor Pachomios
The day’s celebrations began with a liturgical reception to welcome His Excellency Bishop Dr. Mathews Mor Pachomios, the Bishop of the Syro-Malankara Eparchy of Khadki, Pune. His Excellency was greeted with love and reverence by the congregation, setting the spiritual tone for the day. The bishop was welcomed with a spalier of rose petals and candles, according to traditional Indian customs, reflecting the deep respect and devotion the community holds for their spiritual leaders.
Unveiling of the Venerable Mar Ivanios’ Portrait
Following the reception, the congregation witnessed the unveiling of the portrait of the Venerable Mar Ivanios, founder of the Reunion Movement and a guiding light for the Syro-Malankara Church. The unveiling at the Guter Hirte Kirche was a moment of great pride and reflection, reminding the community of Mar Ivanios’ leadership, spirituality, and the legacy of unity he left behind. His presence, through the portrait, now graces the church as a constant reminder of the path of reunion that continues to inspire the faithful.
Pontifical Holy Qurbono
The centrepiece of the day was the Pontifical Holy Qurbono (Mass), celebrated by His Excellency Mor Pachomios, alongside Rev. Fr. Santhosh Thomas, the Ecclesiastical Coordinator of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church in Germany, Fr. Joseph Chelamparambath, Chaplain for the Malankara faithful in the Archdiocese of Cologne, Fr. Paul Matthew OIC, Chaplain for the Diocese of Aachen, Fr. Samuel Varghese Paravila, Chaplain for the Malankara faithful in the Archdiocese of Paderborn, and Fr. Franz Schmerbeck, Associate Pastor of Guter Hirte Parish, Mannheim. This special liturgical celebration reflected the deep-rooted spirituality of the Syro-Malankara Church and underscored the unity and diversity of the community, brought together in faith from different parts of Germany.
During his homily, His Excellency Mor Pachomios reflected on the significance of the Reunion Movement and called on the faithful to live out the values of unity, faith, and service as exemplified by the Venerable Mar Ivanios. His Excellency’s words served as a spiritual guide, encouraging all present to remain steadfast in their faith and to uphold the traditions and teachings of the Syro-Malankara Church.
Bible Distribution as Part of the Year of the Word of God
In line with the ongoing Year of the Word of God, His Excellency and the clergy distributed Bibles to the faithful, including the laity and religious sisters. This act reinforced the Church’s commitment to Scripture and encouraged the faithful to make the Word of God a central part of their daily lives. Each community present at the event received a Bible from the bishop, symbolising the Church’s focus on spiritual renewal and Scriptural engagement throughout this dedicated year.
Additionally, His Excellency Mor Pachomios used the opportunity to appoint a new priest to serve the growing Syro-Malankara Catholic community in Germany, further strengthening the pastoral care provided to the faithful.
Group Photos and Blessings
Following the Holy Qurbono, the congregation gathered for a series of group photographs. His Excellency Mor Pachomios and the clergy took photos with priests and altar servers, capturing the solemnity of the day inside the church. Outside the church, the entire congregation, including the laity, gathered for a large group photo with His Excellency. Religious sisters from various congregations, most of whom belong to Kerala-based orders, also had the opportunity to take individual photos with His Excellency, reflecting the widespread participation of the religious in the day’s events.
Lunch and Fellowship
After the spiritual celebrations, the congregation was invited to a lunch, which offered an opportunity for fellowship and conversation. The meal, though not traditional Kerala cuisine, reflected German flavours, providing the Syro-Malankara community with a blend of their cultural heritage alongside their new home in Germany.
Cultural Programmes and Address by Rev. Fr. Santhosh Thomas
The celebrations continued in the auditorium, where the community enjoyed a vibrant display of cultural programmes, including Indian prayer dances, choral performances, and more. Performances, including dances and music, showcased the rich cultural heritage of Kerala, brought to life by the Syro-Malankara faithful in Germany. These performances not only celebrated Kerala’s traditions but also created a joyful atmosphere of unity and community spirit.
Rev. Fr. Santhosh Thomas, the Ecclesiastical Coordinator of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church in Germany, addressed the gathering, thanking the faithful for their dedication to the Church and for upholding their cultural identity in Germany. He acknowledged the commitment of the clergy and community members who made the day a success.
Unveiling of Mar Ivanios’ Image and Lamp Lighting
The celebrations continued with the unveiling of another portrait of the Venerable Mar Ivanios, this time in the auditorium, further emphasising his role as a spiritual guide for the Syro-Malankara Church. A lamp lighting ceremony followed, symbolising the light of faith and the enduring legacy of Mar Ivanios in the lives of the faithful.
Reflections from Guest Speakers
One of the honoured guests, Fr. Franz Schmerbeck, Associate Pastor of Guter Hirte Parish, Mannheim, shared his reflections on the event, expressing his joy at being part of this historic celebration. His words highlighted the strength of the Syro-Malankara community and their efforts to maintain a strong connection to their faith and heritage.
As a token of gratitude, Rev. Fr. Santhosh Thomas presented Fr. Schmerbeck with a special memento featuring the Venerable Mar Ivanios, marking the occasion with a gesture of thanks. Other reflections were shared by Anup Mundethu, along with speeches from community leaders, recognising the importance of the day for the German Syro-Malankara Catholic community.
Recognition of Students’ Achievements
As part of the celebrations, students who had achieved high academic marks were honoured with certificates and mementos, recognising their dedication and hard work. This segment of the programme celebrated not just the spiritual and cultural, but also the academic achievements of the younger generation within the community.
Conclusion and Acknowledgment of the Pastoral Council
The 94th Reunion Celebration of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church in Mannheim was a day filled with faith, joy, and unity. Through the combined efforts of the Pastoral Council and the St. Peter & St. Paul Syro-Malankara Catholic Community, the event brought together families, clergy, and religious in a spirit of fellowship, celebrating the Church’s rich heritage and the ongoing commitment to faith and community life.
Special recognition must be given to the hardworking members of the Pastoral Council, whose behind-the-scenes efforts ensured the success of this memorable event. Sri. Gegoy Kochetukudiyil (Pastoral Council President), Sri. Jomon Cherian (Pastoral Council Secretary), Sri. Anup Mundethu (Pastoral Council Secretary), Sabu Pulpara (Pastoral Council Vice President), Gibo Pulpara (Pastoral Council Treasurer), and Varghese Charivupurayidam (Treasurer) played key roles in organising the day’s activities and ensuring that everything ran smoothly. Their dedication to the community exemplifies the spirit of unity and service that defines the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church in Germany.
As the day concluded, there was a deep sense of gratitude for the blessings shared and a renewed commitment to the faith journey ahead.
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