A New Light in the North: The Inauguration of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Mission in Leeds

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A New Light in the North: The Inauguration of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Mission in Leeds

Leeds, United Kingdom – There are moments in ecclesial life when geography bends to grace, and a quiet corner of a distant land becomes part of a greater ecclesial story. Such a moment occurred on Sunday, 30 March 2025, as the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church marked a historic step in her mission across the British Isles with the inauguration and blessing of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Mission in Leeds.

The ceremony took place at St. Theresa’s Church, nestled within the St. John Henry Newman Parish Campus in Cross Gates, LS15 7JY, Leeds. The occasion, solemn yet deeply joyful, was graced by the presence of His Excellency Bishop Marcus Stock, the Latin Rite Bishop of the Diocese of Leeds, who presided over the official inauguration, symbolising the warm fraternity between the Latin Church in England and the Syro-Malankara Catholic faithful.

The Holy Qurbono was offered by Very Rev. Dr. Kuriakose Thadathil, the Special Pastor and Ecclesiastical Coordinator for the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church in the United Kingdom. During the liturgical celebration, he formally read the decree of establishment, declaring the formation of the St Bernabas Malankara Mission, Leeds, named after the saintly companion of the Apostle Paul—a fitting choice for a mission called to walk alongside a larger ecclesial body with humility, courage, and Gospel zeal.

The liturgical reception and agape that followed were moments of heartfelt fraternity, drawing together Malankara faithful from across the UK Region. This is no mere administrative expansion; it is a testimony to the living faith of our migrant families, whose deep roots in the West Syriac tradition now find new soil in English parish life.

This newly established mission will offer Holy Qurbono on the 2nd and 4th Sundays of each month at 2:30 PM, extending an open invitation to all Syro-Malankara Catholic faithful residing in and around Leeds to participate in the liturgy and community life.

As we look to the future, we give thanks to God for this blessed beginning. We remain grateful to the Diocese of Leeds, especially to Bishop Marcus Stock, for their support and openness. And we invoke the intercession of St. Bernabas, patron of the new mission, that this community may grow in charity, unity, and the fearless proclamation of the faith handed down to us from the apostles.

📍 Address for the faithful nearby:
St. Theresa’s Church, St. John Henry Newman Parish Campus, Cross Gates, LS15 7JY, Leeds, United Kingdom

🗓️ Regular Services:
2nd and 4th Sundays of Every Month
🕝 Time: 2:30 PM

We encourage all Malankara Catholic faithful residing in and around Leeds to attend the Holy Qurbono and join in the spiritual and communal life of this mission.

Syro-Malankara Catholic Church Witnesses the Installation of Aboon Mor Baselios Joseph I as Catholicos of the Jacobite Syrian Church

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Syro-Malankara Catholic Church Witnesses the Installation of Aboon Mor Baselios Joseph I as Catholicos of the Jacobite Syrian Church

Puthencruz, Kerala – 30 March 2025
In a moment of sacred continuity and historic significance for the Syriac Christian tradition in India, Aboon Mor Baselios Joseph I was installed as the Catholicos of the Jacobite Syrian Orthodox Church during a deeply reverent ceremony held at the St. Athanasius Cathedral, Puthencruz Patriarchal Centre.

Thousands of clergy, religious, and faithful gathered to witness the Sunthroniso rite, the traditional proclamation of ecclesial leadership. As the faithful and clergy intoned the ancient acclamation Axios (“He is worthy”), the Church embraced its new shepherd, renewing its fidelity to the apostolic inheritance.

TThe official charter of appointment from His Holiness Mor Ignatius Aphrem II, Patriarch of Antioch and All the East, was solemnly read, affirming the communion between the See of Antioch and the Church in India.

Representing the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church, His Eminent Beatitude Cardinal Moran Mor Baselios Cleemis Catholicos, Major Archbishop-Catholicos of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church, participated in the ceremonies and the public felicitation, offering the prayers and fraternal good wishes of the Malankara Catholic community. His Beatitude’s presence reflected the spiritual bonds and mutual reverence that unite the Syriac traditions across ecclesiastical lines.

Earlier, Aboon Mor Baselios Joseph I had been consecrated Catholicos on 25 March 2025 at the St. Mary’s Syrian Orthodox Cathedral, adjacent to the Patriarchal Palace in Atchaneh, Lebanon. His Holiness Mor Ignatius Aphrem II personally presided over the consecration, underscoring the ancient apostolic ties between Antioch and the Syriac Churches of India.

Upon his arrival at Cochin International Airport, His Beatitude was welcomed by clergy, faithful, and civic dignitaries. Proceeding to the Patriarchal Centre at Puthencruz, he offered prayers at the tomb of the late Catholicos Mor Baselios Thomas I, entrusting his new ministry to the mercy and guidance of God.

The public meeting following the installation was inaugurated by Union Minister of State George Kurien, with felicitations offered by Kerala Industries Minister P. Rajeev, Member of Parliament Benny Behanan, MLA P. V. Sreenijan, and ecclesiastical leaders, including Major Archbishop Raphael Thattil of the Syro-Malabar Church, and Bishop Selvister Ponnumuthan.

Pilgrimage of Faith and Stewardship

Born on 10 November 1960 in Mulanthuruthy, Aboon Mor Baselios Joseph I has served the Church with unwavering dedication:

  • Ordained as a deacon on 25 March 1974 and as a priest on 25 March 1984,
  • Completed theological studies at St Patrick’s Pontifical University, Ireland (1988),
  • Consecrated as Metropolitan on 16 January 1994 under the name Joseph Mar Gregorios,
  • Shepherded the Kochi Diocese and undertaken responsibilities for the UK, Gulf-Europe, Kollam-Thumpamon-Niranam, Thrissur, Malabar, and Angamaly dioceses,
  • Elected Metropolitan Trustee of the Jacobite Syrian Church in 2019,
  • Declared Malankara Metropolitan in February 2024, and later elevated to Catholicos Assistant.

Now entrusted as the President of the Episcopal Synod, His Beatitude leads a Church that draws from the springs of apostolic tradition while responding to the call of faithful discipleship in a changing world.

The Syro-Malankara Catholic Church lifts heartfelt prayers that the ministry of His Beatitude may be marked by wisdom, courage, and a deepening communion in Christ.

“The Lord has chosen Zion; He has desired it for His dwelling place.” (Psalm 132:13)

Konni Ecclesiastical District Bible Convention Inaugurated by His Excellency Mor Chrysostom

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Konni Ecclesiastical District Bible Convention Inaugurated by His Excellency Mor Chrysostom

Konni, Pathanamthitta – With hearts lifted in prayer and the Word proclaimed with fervour, the Bible Convention of the Konni Ecclesiastical District was solemnly inaugurated at the Nedumpara Mount Carmel Auditorium. The convention was inaugurated by His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Yoohanon Mor Chrysostom, Bishop Emeritus of Pathanamthitta, who lit the ceremonial lamp and addressed the gathering with a powerful exhortation on the enduring significance of Scripture in the life of the Church.

Organised under the leadership of the Malankara Catholic Association, Konni Region, the event drew participation from priests, religious, and lay faithful from various parishes across the district.

Presiding over the inaugural session was Rev. Fr. Varghese, the District President of the Malankara Catholic Association. The keynote address was delivered by Rev. Fr. Benny Varghese, Director of the Ecclesiastical District Bible Apostolate, who also led spiritual sessions focused on inner renewal through the Word of God.

Notable attendees included Rev. Fr. Mathew, Rev. Sr. Shalini S.I.C., and several others involved in the district-level apostolates.

The convention includes spiritual talks, scriptural reflections, praise and worship, and youth-led programmes, and is scheduled to continue today at 2:30 PM, welcoming faithful from across the Konni Ecclesiastical District.

This gathering of the faithful reflects a vibrant commitment to the Holy Bible as the fountain of renewal and mission within the Malankara Syrian Catholic Church, especially in these spiritually fertile regions of Pathanamthitta.

Syro-Malankara Catholic Church Joins in Witness as Mor Baselios Joseph Consecrated Catholicos of the Jacobite Syrian Church

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Syro-Malankara Catholic Church Joins in Witness as Mor Baselios Joseph Consecrated Catholicos of the Jacobite Syrian Church

Atchaneh, Lebanon – 25 March 2025
In a solemn act of apostolic continuity and ecclesial grace, His Beatitude Mor Baselios Joseph was consecrated as the Maphrian (Catholicos) of the Jacobite Syrian Church in India at the St. Mary’s Syrian Orthodox Patriarchal Cathedral, Atchaneh, Lebanon.

The Syro-Malankara Catholic Church, represented with reverence and fraternal affection by His Eminent Beatitude Cardinal Moran Mor Baselios Cleemis Catholicos, joined the sacred assembly of patriarchs, bishops, priests, and faithful, bearing witness to this historic moment in the life of the Indian Syriac Christian tradition.

Consecration Ceremony Reflecting Apostolic Continuity

The Holy Qurbana and consecration rites were led by His Holiness Mor Ignatius Aphrem II, Patriarch of Antioch and All the East, alongside the metropolitans of the Holy Synod. The ancient liturgy, imbued with the fragrance of Syriac hymnody and solemn prayers, proclaimed the unbroken faith that traces its roots to the apostles and martyrs of the early Church.

The consecration marked the succession to the revered office previously held by His Beatitude Mor Baselios Thomas I, who, after decades of faithful service, entered eternal rest in October 2024.

As Mor Baselios Joseph received the insignia of his new office, the bells of the cathedral tolled, echoing a call across the Syriac Churches to unity, faithfulness, and renewed pastoral mission.

Gathering of Apostolic Churches in Witness and Solidarity

The solemnity of the occasion was magnified by the presence of distinguished patriarchs, bishops, and representatives from sister Churches, among them:

  • Catholicos Aram I of the Great House of Cilicia (Armenian Apostolic Church),
  • Patriarch Cardinal Bechara Boutros al-Rai of the Maronite Church,
  • Patriarch Mor John X Yazigi of the Greek Orthodox Church of Antioch,
  • Patriarch Mor Youssef III Younan of the Syriac Catholic Church,
  • Patriarch Raphael Bedros XXI Minassian of the Armenian Catholic Church,
  • Delegates from the Assyrian Church of the East, the Coptic Orthodox Church, and the Melkite Greek Catholic Church,
  • Alongside representatives from Lebanon’s government and the Government of India.

Cardinal Moran Mor Baselios Cleemis, as the head of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church, stood among these ancient Churches in profound fraternity, honouring the shared Syriac heritage and affirming the bonds of faith that transcend temporal divisions.

Fraternal Esteem between Churches of the Syriac Tradition

Throughout the celebrations, His Holiness Mor Ignatius Aphrem II visibly upheld the spirit of ecclesial fraternity.
In a moment of particular significance, the Patriarch presented a cross to Cardinal Cleemis during a fraternal gathering—an act rich with symbolism, expressing mutual respect and acknowledging the common inheritance of the apostolic tradition.

The placement of His Eminence among the patriarchs and senior hierarchs during the receptions and gatherings further reflected the deep regard maintained between the Churches sharing the Syriac patrimony.
It was a testimony not merely to historical ties, but to living bonds nurtured by shared faith, liturgy, and fidelity to the apostolic mission in India and beyond.

Such gestures were neither casual nor perfunctory; they flowed naturally from the profound understanding that, in the communion of the Churches of the East, fraternity is lived not in word alone but in honour, prayer, and visible acts of esteem.

Mandate Entrusted to Mor Baselios Joseph

In his first address as Catholicos, Mor Baselios Joseph humbly reflected upon the call to carry the Cross with love and fidelity, committing himself to the pastoral care of his people and the safeguarding of the Syriac Orthodox heritage in India.

He acknowledged the enduring guidance of Patriarch Mor Ignatius Aphrem II, recalling their shared theological journey during their youth, and invoked the intercession of the saints of the Syriac tradition, particularly Saint Geevarghese Mar Gregorios of Parumala, one of his spiritual forebears.

The Syro-Malankara Catholic Church lifts up heartfelt prayers that His Beatitude Mor Baselios Joseph may shepherd his flock with wisdom, charity, and apostolic zeal, and that the bonds of faith that unite the heirs of the Syriac tradition may continue to strengthen in the love of Christ.

“The glory of the Church lies not in splendour or numbers, but in her faithfulness to the Cross she is called to bear.”

When East Meets East: Catholicos Mor Baselios Cleemis Joins Syriac Patriarchs at Mar Georgis Cathedral, Lebanon

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When East Meets East: Catholicos Mor Baselios Cleemis Joins Syriac Patriarchs at Mar Georgis Cathedral, Lebanon

In a moment as poignant as it was prayerful, His Eminent Beatitude Cardinal Moran Mor Baselios Cleemis Catholicos, Major Archbishop-Catholicos of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church, visited the historic Mar Georgis Cathedral in Bashoura – Deep Trench, Beirut, on the evening of Sunday, 23 March 2025. He was received with brotherly warmth by His Beatitude Mor Ignatius Youssef III Younan, Patriarch of the Syriac Catholic Church of Antioch.

Together, these two spiritual heads of the Syriac Catholic Churches stood before the altar and lifted their hearts in supplication—invoking the intercession of St. George the Martyr, not only for the flourishing of the Church and the faithful but for the quelling of unrest and the healing of a war-torn world.

What transpired was not a mere exchange of pleasantries, but an encounter deeply rooted in shared memory and sacred tradition. The Patriarch recounted to the Catholicos the arduous yet triumphant story of the Cathedral’s rebirth—once reduced to ruin in the long shadows of Lebanon’s civil war, now gloriously restored and reconsecrated in 2022. With evident reverence, the Catholicos praised the restoration, commending the Patriarch’s fidelity to the rich spiritual and architectural heritage of the Syriac Church.

The visit unfolded as a luminous sign of unity between the Eastern and Western expressions of the Syriac Christian tradition. It was a theological and ecclesial gesture—a testament to communion forged not through convenience but through a shared memory of suffering, perseverance, and hope.

Joining them were Monsignor Habib Murad, Patriarchal General Administrator and Secretary of the Patriarchate; Rev. Fr. Isaac, General Administrator of the Major Archieparchy of Trivandrum; and Fr. Karim Kulsh, Assistant Secretary of the Syriac Catholic Patriarchate.

Earlier in the day, at Rafic Hariri International Airport, His Beatitude Mor Ignatius Youssef III Younan personally welcomed Catholicos Mor Baselios Cleemis, who arrived in Lebanon for a brief yet spiritually significant visit.

The Catholicos’ journey to Beirut was also occasioned by his participation in the enthronement of His Beatitude Joseph Mor Gregorios as Catholicos of the Malankara Syriac Orthodox Church, scheduled to take place on Tuesday, 25 March 2025, at St. Mary’s Syriac Orthodox Cathedral, adjacent to the Patriarchal Residence in Atchané, Lebanon. The liturgy will be presided over by His Holiness Mor Ignatius Aphrem II, Patriarch of the Syriac Orthodox Church of Antioch. The event is expected to draw hierarchs from various Syriac Churches, state dignitaries, and delegations from India and abroad.

Also present at the airport reception were His Eminence Mor Clemis Daniel Kourieh, Archbishop of Beirut for the Syriac Orthodox Church, representing His Holiness Aphrem II, and Mr. Joseph, Chargé d’affaires at the Indian Embassy in Beirut.

Following a brief repose at the airport’s Hall of Honour, the Catholicos and the Patriarch made their way to the Patriarchal See at Al-Mathaf, Beirut, where they entered the Church of St. Ignatius of Antioch and offered prayers of thanksgiving for safe arrival and spiritual fraternity.

This encounter did not merely commemorate ecclesiastical protocol; it proclaimed something far greater—a renewal of bonds that reach beyond geography and liturgy, whispering to the heart of every faithful: that in Christ, what is divided shall be made whole, and what is ancient shall not wither but bloom again.

In every respect, it was a chapter written not with ink but with grace—etched into the unfolding story of the Syriac Church’s faithful witness across time and lands.

Mavelikara MCA Inaugurates Yearly Initiatives with Strong Lay Participation

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Mavelikara MCA Inaugurates Yearly Initiatives with Strong Lay Participation

Kadampanad, March 2025 – The Malankara Catholic Association (MCA) of the Mavelikara Eparchy formally inaugurated its 2025 action plan at St. George Malankara Catholic Church, Kadampanad, in a gathering that brought together clergy, laity, and Church leaders in a spirit of shared mission.

Honourable Mavelikara MP Shri. Kodikunnil Suresh delivered the inaugural address, emphasising the significance of faith-driven community engagement. Eparchial Vicar General, Rt. Rev. Dr. Stephen Kulathumkarott, led the official release of the MCA mission plan, marking the beginning of another year of committed service and evangelisation.

The event commenced with an introductory address by Rev. Fr. Sylvester Thekkedath, the Eparchial MCA spiritual advisor, setting the theological and pastoral vision for the year. District Vicar Rev. Fr. Vijayanand followed with a blessing message, inspiring those gathered to actively participate in the Church’s lay apostolate.

The meeting was presided over by MCA Eparchial President Advocate Anil Babu, with Eparchial General Secretary Williams Mathai delivering the welcome address. Clergy members including Rev. Fr. Cherian Mayickal, Rev. Fr. Geevarghese Chacko Puthiyidom, and Rev. Fr. Aneesh extended their greetings and prayers for the success of the initiatives.

Prominent MCA leaders such as Binu K. Samuel, Dr. Shaji M. Stanley, Nisha Puthur, Kurian Chacko Kottappuram, Elizabeth Ninan, James Chengannur, K. Babu Ampalathumkala, Georgekutty Puthur, Sanjeev Maroor, Koshy Parathundil, Ranjan Kadampanad, Anna Ponnachan, Mini Babu, Rajan Kaippally, and Kunjamma Das spoke on various aspects of MCA’s role in Church and society.

The organising team, led by district presidents Baby Edanad, Justin Puthur, Dr. John T. Abraham, Lalan C. Shamuvel, and Subish Benny, played a pivotal role in ensuring the successful execution of the event.

With 260 representatives from various ecclesiastical districts in attendance, the MCA of Mavelikara Eparchy reaffirmed its commitment to active lay participation, social outreach, and ecclesial unity.

News and Photo Credits: Mr. Williams Mathai, Mavelikara MCA Eparchial General Secretary

Muvattupuzha Region of Malankara Catholic Association (MCA) Begins Year’s Activities with a Solemn Inauguration

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Muvattupuzha Region of Malankara Catholic Association (MCA) Begins Year’s Activities with a Solemn Inauguration

Muvattupuzha, March 16, 2025: The Malankara Catholic Association (MCA) of the Muvattupuzha Region commenced its 2025 activities with a grace-filled inauguration led by His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Yoohanon Mor Theodosius, Bishop of Muvattupuzha. The event took place at Vimalagiri Bishop’s House, with a gathering of clergy, lay leaders, and faithful, marking the beginning of another year of committed service and faith-filled initiatives.

Muvattupuzha Regional President Kunjumon P. M. presided over the event, while Regional Secretary Sree Varghese extended a warm welcome to all attendees. The spiritual tone for the occasion was set by Rev. Fr. George Mankulam, the Regional Spiritual Advisor, who delivered an introductory address, urging the faithful to stay rooted in the Church’s mission and embrace the call to witness and serve.

The keynote address was delivered by MCA Eparchial President N. T. Jacob, who emphasised the role of the laity in strengthening the Church’s vision and actively participating in its apostolic endeavours. Rev. Fr. Varghese Madathikunnath, Vicar of the Muvattupuzha Region, and Regional Executive Member Bichu Kurian Thomas also shared their thoughts, reinforcing the unity and responsibility that the MCA upholds within the community.

A special session on lay formation and empowerment was conducted by V. C. Georgekutty, State General Secretary of the Kerala Catholic Federation (KCF), providing deeper insights into the laity’s role in Church and society.

The event was a meaningful convergence of faith, leadership, and commitment, setting the stage for another year of service and evangelisation within the Muvattupuzha Region of the Malankara Catholic Association.

“Assisian Logos” Inaugurated: A Year of Faith and Commitment for the Youth of Parassala Eparchy

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“Assisian Logos” Inaugurated: A Year of Faith and Commitment for the Youth of Parassala Eparchy

Charottukonam, March 16, 2025: The Parassala Eparchial Youth Movement (MCYM) began its 2025 mission with the grand inauguration of “Assisian Logos” at St. George Malankara Syrian Catholic Church, Charottukonam. Rooted in the spiritual legacy of St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of the MCYM, and inspired by the eternal Word of God (Logos), this initiative sets forth a path of service, faith, and evangelisation for the young faithful of the Eparchy.

The event was graced by His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Thomas Mor Eusebius, Bishop of Parassala, who presided over the gathering and officially launched the year’s programmes. The solemn commencement was marked by the hoisting of the MCYM flag by Rev. Sr. Merlin Maria DM, the Eparchial Animator, symbolising the movement’s renewed dedication to its mission.

A public meeting followed, presided over by Eparchial MCYM President Sharath Lal T. S., where His Excellency lit the ceremonial lamp, invoking divine guidance over the youth’s endeavours. The highlight of the event was the unveiling of the 2025 programme booklet, “Assisian Logos”, by the bishop, signifying the movement’s unwavering commitment to living out the Gospel message in action. Alongside this, he also launched the pastoral plans of the Parassala, Kattakada, and nearby Ecclesiastical Districts, as well as that of the Charottukonam Unit, fostering a collective vision for the year ahead.

MCYM Director Rev. Fr. Prabhish George, Parassala Clergy District Vicar Rev. Fr. Thomas Eettivilayil, District President Ajin, and Unit President Ajeesh shared words of encouragement, reminding the youth of their calling to be the hands and feet of Christ in today’s world.

A pledge against substance abuse, led by Synod Delegate Martin R. P., stood as a powerful testament to the moral and social responsibilities the youth embrace as part of their faith journey. The event was further enriched by vibrant performances, with music and interactive sessions led by the Neyyattinkara Jesus Youth Team and Rev. Fr. Anit Francis Mullassery, filling the atmosphere with spiritual fervour and energy.

The programme concluded with a message of inspiration from Rt. Rev. Monsignor Selin Jose Konathuvila, Vicar General of Parassala Eparchy, who urged the youth to embody the humility and zeal of St. Francis of Assisi while staying anchored in the Word of God. The Charottukonam Parish Community, which meticulously organised the grand event, and the Parassala Clergy District, which graciously hosted the gathering, were both extended heartfelt gratitude.

With over 400 young members in attendance, Assisian Logos stands as a beacon of faith, action, and unity, guiding the youth of the Parassala Eparchy in their spiritual and social commitments.

Clerical Vesting Ceremony in the Major Archieparchy of Trivandrum

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Clerical Vesting Ceremony in the Major Archieparchy of Trivandrum

Thiruvananthapuram – Br. Chris Mangattil and Br. Robin Valiyavilayil received their clerical vestments from His Eminent Beatitude Cardinal Moran Mor Baselios Cleemis Catholicos, marking their formal entry into the clerical state. The ceremony took place in the presence of His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Mathews Mor Polycarpos, Auxiliary Bishop of the Major Archieparchy of Trivandrum, along with priests and faithful who gathered in prayer.

Commitment to the Church

The cassock, a sign of dedication and service, represents their readiness to embrace the responsibilities of priestly formation. It is a moment of promise, as they prepare to serve Christ and His people.

The occasion was witnessed by the Vicar Generals of the Major Archieparchy, Rev. Fr. Sheen Palakkuzhy, Rector of the Minor Seminary, and priests who have guided them through their formation.

Preparing for the Priesthood

With this step, Br. Chris and Br. Robin move forward in their formation, shaped by prayer, study, and commitment to their vocation. As they continue their journey, the prayers of the Church remain with them, asking for strength and wisdom in their path to priesthood.

MCA Tiruvalla Region Joins Citizens’ Anti-Drug Marathon 2025

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MCA Tiruvalla Region Joins Citizens’ Anti-Drug Marathon 2025

Tiruvalla – Addressing the rising concerns over violence among youth and the widespread menace of substance abuse, the Tiruvalla Region of the Malankara Catholic Association (MCA) actively participated in the Anti-Drug Marathon 2025, organised by Tiruvalla Citizens’ Forum. The event brought together people from all walks of life in a collective effort to counter the dangers threatening the younger generation.

United for a Drug-Free Future

MCA Tiruvalla, under the leadership of President Biju George, stood at the forefront, reinforcing the Church’s commitment to fostering a society rooted in values and responsibility. Joy Sam, Jaimon, Shibu Abraham, John Mamman, and Reji A.C., alongside the clergy, youth, and MCA office-bearers, joined the initiative in large numbers.

The presence of esteemed clergy members, including Rev. Fr. Cherian Kurisummoottil, Rev. Fr. Mathew Punakulam, and Rev. Fr. George Valiyaparambil, underscored the Church’s unwavering mission to guide the youth toward a life of purpose and faith.

Taking Responsibility for Change

The marathon was an expression of the Church’s ongoing efforts in building awareness, supporting rehabilitation, and fostering strong moral foundations within communities. MCA Tiruvalla’s active involvement in this initiative reflects the broader mission of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church—not merely to witness but to lead, to strengthen, and to guide.

As the faithful marched forward in solidarity, they sent a message of hope, urging every individual, every family, and every institution to take responsibility in confronting the crisis of addiction. True change begins with those willing to act.

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