Mumbai/Pune: In a faith-infused event for the Eparchy of St. Ephrem Khadki – Pune, new members of the Ecclesiastical District of Mumbai Suvishesha Sangam (Gospel Ministry Team) were conferred with Kaiveppu (traditional legitimate way of laying hands by a Bishop) by H.E. Mathews Mar Pachomios OIC at St. Mary’s Malankara Catholic Church, Sakinaka. The event was graced by the presence of H.E. Antony Mar Silvanos (Chairman, Synodal Commission for Evangelization), along with other clergy and faithful.
Simultaneously, a similar ceremony took place in Pune at St. Mary’s Malankara Catholic Cathedral, Khadki, where new members of the Ecclesiastical District of Pune Suvishesha Sangam received Kaiveppu from H.E. Mathews Mar Pachomios OIC, in the presence of H.E. Antony Mar Silvanos.
The presence of Rev. Dr. Sr. Mary Prasad DM (Secretary) and Rev. Fr. Benedict Moozhikkara OIC (Executive Secretary, Evangelization Apostolate) added significance to both events.
Synodal Commission for Evangelization
The Synodal Commission for Evangelization, chaired by His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Antony Mar Silvanos OIC, plays a pivotal role in directing and coordinating the missionary efforts of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church. The commission’s mandate includes awakening missionary consciousness, fostering vocations, and promoting research in mission theology, spirituality, and pastoral work. It addresses the needs of the faithful within a multi-religious, socio-political, and ecclesial context, proposing concrete measures for effective evangelization.
Suvishesha Sangam’s Mission
The Suvishesha Sangam, organized by the Synodal Commission, is dedicated to spreading the Gospel and fostering a missionary spirit among the Malankara Catholic faithful. Through prayer, exemplary lives, active work, and contributions, the members of the Suvishesha Sangam strive to fulfill the Church’s evangelistic mission. The recent Kaiveppu ceremonies underscore the Church’s commitment to nurturing and empowering its members for this noble task.
Ceremony Highlights
The Kaiveppu ceremonies were marked by profound spiritual significance and community involvement. In Mumbai, the ceremony at St. Mary’s Malankara Catholic Church, Sakinaka, saw a large turnout of faithful who witnessed the new members taking their vows and receiving blessings from the bishops. Similarly, in Pune, the ceremony at St. Mary’s Malankara Catholic Cathedral, Khadki, was a deeply moving event, reflecting the unity and dedication of the Church community.
The Eparchy of St. Ephrem Khadki – Pune, under the leadership of H.E. Mathews Mar Pachomios OIC, continues to foster spiritual growth and evangelistic fervor among its members. The recent Kaiveppu ceremonies are a testament to the Church’s ongoing efforts to spread the Gospel and nurture a strong, faith-driven community. The Synodal Commission for Evangelization, with its dedicated leadership, remains committed to guiding and supporting these initiatives, ensuring that the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church remains a vibrant and missionary Church.

