Feast of the Immaculate Conception Celebrated with Solemnity and Devotion at Punnamoodu Malankara Cathedral Church

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The annual Feast of the Immaculate Conception at the Punnamoodu Malankara Cathedral Church began with grandeur, deep devotion, and an inspiring display of community faith. The eight-day celebration, which honours the Blessed Virgin Mary, drew large numbers of the faithful from across the region.

Day 1: Flag Hoisting and Holy Qurbono

The feast was inaugurated with the ceremonial hoisting of the festival flag, a symbolic act representing the beginning of days filled with prayer, devotion, and reflection. The Holy Qurbono was celebrated by His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Samuel Mor Irenios, Bishop of Pathanamthitta, who also performed the flag-hoisting ceremony.

Rev. Fr. Mathew Chenkilath, the parish vicar, and Rev. Fr. Mathew Jacob Thiruvalil OIC served as co-celebrants, providing liturgical guidance and blessings to the congregation. The opening day’s service resonated with hymns, prayers, and reflections, setting a spiritually uplifting tone for the week ahead.

Day 2: Eucharistic Adoration and Divine Presence

The second day witnessed Rev. Fr. Samuel Thekkekavinal leading the Holy Qurbono. A solemn Eucharistic Adoration followed, allowing the faithful to meditate deeply in the presence of the Blessed Sacrament. This was followed by a Eucharistic Procession, during which the clergy blessed the congregation and the surrounding areas, invoking divine grace and protection.

An additional highlight of the day was the Switch-On Ceremony for the church’s nativity star, symbolising the light of Christ in the world. Rev. Fr. Samuel Thekkekavinal and Sr. Sobina jointly officiated the ceremony, bringing joy and anticipation for the feast days ahead.

Day 3: Spiritual Reflection and the Power of Repentance

The third day of the feast featured the Holy Qurbono led by Rev. Fr. (Lijin) John Kaduvinkal, who offered a poignant homily, urging the faithful to turn towards God and embrace repentance. The first session of the Bible Convention was held, led by Rev. Fr. Jison Paul Vengasserry, who spoke about the transformative power of standing in God’s presence:
“When we draw near to the Lord, the weight of our sins becomes evident, and we are called to self-examination and reconciliation.”

This session was the first of a three-day spiritual retreat that drew significant participation, with attendees finding solace and strength in the Word of God.

Day 4: Eucharistic Celebration and Further Reflections

The Eucharistic celebration on Day 4 was presided over by Very Rev. Fr. Jain John Thenguvilayil, the Vicar of the Chengannur Ecclesiastical District. Following the Holy Qurbono, Rev. Fr. Jison Paul Vengasserry continued his spiritual retreat, focusing on the mercy of God:
“Judge me not with righteousness, O Lord, but look upon me with mercy.”

His reflections resonated deeply with the faithful, encouraging them to embrace God’s love and compassion.

Day 5: Reflection on the Stones of Faith

Day 5 began with the Holy Qurbono celebrated by Very Rev. Fr. Job Kalluvilayil, the Vicar of the Mavelikara Ecclesiastical District. During the final session of the Bible Convention, Rev. Fr. Jison Paul Vengasserry reflected on the spiritual tools that help overcome life’s challenges, drawing parallels with David’s five stones against Goliath:

  1. Parish Church – A source of sacraments and spiritual renewal.
  2. The Holy Bible – Guiding the faithful in truth and wisdom.
  3. Holy Confession – Cleansing the soul and reconciling with God.
  4. Fasting and Abstinence – Strengthening the spirit through sacrifice.
  5. Family Prayer – Building faith within the domestic Church.

Day 6: Renewal through Holy Qurbono

The penultimate day of the feast featured the Holy Qurbono celebrated by Rev. Fr. John Maruthoor, who urged the congregation to prepare their hearts for the culmination of the feast.

Day 7: Solemn Celebrations and Processions

On Day 7, a special Holy Qurbono was co-celebrated by Rev. Fr. Michael Varikolitharayil OICRev. Fr. Joshua Kuttiyil OIC, and Rev. Fr. P. K. Daniel Puthenpurayil. The celebrations included a solemn Rasa Procession, with the faithful carrying candles and singing hymns in a moving display of devotion and faith.

Day 8: Feast Day and First Holy Communion

The feast concluded with a grand celebration led by His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Joshua Mor Ignathios, Bishop of Mavelikara. The Holy Qurbono was followed by the First Holy Communion ceremony for children, marking a significant spiritual milestone for the young faithful. Rev. Fr. Mathew Chenkilath and Rev. Fr. Joshua Kuttiyil OIC assisted in the liturgical celebrations.

Acknowledgements and Gratitude

This year’s feast was a resounding success, thanks to the leadership of Rev. Fr. Mathew Chenkilath, the parish vicar, and the tireless efforts of the feast committee. Gratitude is also extended to the trustees, committee members, youth members of MCYM, missionary sisters, and all parishioners who contributed to the celebrations.

The Punnamoodu Malankara Cathedral Church community extends heartfelt thanks to everyone who participated in the feast, especially those who led the Eucharistic celebrations and the spiritual reflections. May the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary continue to bless the parish and its faithful.

St. Paul’s Syro-Malankara Catholic Community in Malta Announces Dynamic Leadership Team for MCYM 2025

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In an inspiring move towards strengthening youth engagement and building vibrant community activities, St. Paul’s Syro-Malankara Catholic Community in Malta unveiled its 2025 Unit Executive of the Malankara Catholic Youth Movement (MCYM). This dynamic team, guided by spiritual fervour and a passion for service, aims to uplift the community’s spiritual and social dimensions.

Leadership Team Highlights

The newly formed executive committee represents a blend of youth vitality and experienced guidance. Here’s a closer look at the team:

  • Fr. Samuel Thonduparambil takes the helm as the Director, providing spiritual leadership to guide the unit’s mission.
  • Sam Thomas Alex, as Animator, promises to energize the youth with meaningful programmes.
  • Aji Thomas, the President, along with Aleena Sara Saju, the Vice-President, forms a strong leadership duo, focused on inclusion and growth.

Core Roles and Key Initiatives

The backbone of the unit lies in its robust framework:

  • Alan Raj Roy, as Secretary, and Saju Johny, as Treasurer, ensure seamless organisation and financial management.
  • Sijo Cherian, the Joint Secretary, ensures effective coordination across all initiatives.

Unique Engagement and Representation

With a rich mix of talent and experience, the committee has expanded its focus on collaborative outreach and youth-centric development:

  • Lijin JoseJesty Sarah Abraham, and Jeena take on the role of Syndicates and Senate members, ensuring balanced representation and decision-making.
  • Anoop Matthew, as Media Coordinator, will bring the unit’s voice to global platforms, showcasing Malta’s Malankara Catholic youth’s vibrancy.

Cultivating a Sense of Belonging

The committee is committed to ensuring all voices are heard, with Smithin Samuel, as a Senate Member, and Programme Coordinators Jijo Chacko Joseph and Jinto Kuriakose, bringing their creative flair to the fore.

A Vision for 2025

Speaking at the announcement event, Fr. Samuel Thonduparambil shared his vision: “We are called to serve with humility and love. This executive team embodies the spirit of Christ’s mission – to unite, inspire, and transform.”

The unit plans to launch initiatives focusing on:

  1. Community Service: Engaging in charitable activities to support the underprivileged.
  2. Faith Formation: Hosting retreats, catechism classes, and youth-led liturgies.
  3. Cultural Exchange: Celebrating Kerala’s heritage while embracing Malta’s multicultural ethos.
  4. Leadership Development: Workshops and seminars to nurture the next generation of leaders.

Syro-Malankara Church’s Flourishing Presence in Malta

The Syro-Malankara Catholic Church has established a meaningful presence in Malta, serving as a spiritual home for the Malayali diaspora. St. Paul’s Syro-Malankara Catholic Community has become a beacon of faith, unity, and cultural celebration for its members. Through initiatives such as the Malankara Catholic Youth Movement (MCYM), the Church continues to provide a platform for the younger generation to connect deeply with their faith while actively participating in Malta’s multicultural society.

The Church’s efforts in Malta reflect its broader mission: to create a sense of community while sharing the values of love, service, and inclusion with the wider society.

Looking Ahead

As the Malankara Catholic Youth Movement (MCYM) prepares to embark on this new journey, the community eagerly anticipates the fruits of this leadership team’s efforts. From energising youth gatherings to extending the message of Christ’s love to Maltese society, the team is poised to leave an indelible mark.

St. Paul’s Syro-Malankara Catholic Community invites all faithful to join in this mission, supporting the leaders and contributing to the shared vision of a spiritually enriched and socially vibrant future.

Malankara Social Service Society Marks International Day of Persons with Disabilities with Meaningful Initiatives

The Malankara Social Service Society (MSSS), the social service arm of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Major Archdiocese of Thiruvananthapuram, observed the International Day of Persons with Disabilities on Saturday with a series of impactful events aimed at promoting inclusivity and raising awareness about the challenges faced by persons with disabilities.

The event saw enthusiastic participation from children and families under the SPARSH project, a flagship initiative of MSSS for individuals with deaf blindness, supported by Sense International India and the Azim Premji Foundation. The programme was inaugurated by V.K. Prasanth, MLA, who highlighted the responsibility of local self-governments to allocate 5% of their funds for the welfare of the differently abled.

Auxiliary Bishop His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Mathews Mor Polycarpos presided over the function, delivering an inspiring address that underscored the Church’s commitment to fostering a just and inclusive society. Rev. Fr. Thomas Kayyalakkal, Vicar General, and Fr. Varghese Kizhakkekara, Director of MSSS, also spoke, adding depth to the occasion with their words of encouragement.

Highlights of the Event

  • Wheelchair Distribution: Five children with physical disabilities received wheelchairs, reflecting the MSSS’s commitment to empowering those in need with essential resources.
  • Awareness Pledge: Participants collectively pledged to create a more inclusive society for individuals with disabilities.
  • Poster Competition: Winners of a poster competition held on November 29 were honoured, spreading awareness about the importance of inclusivity.
  • Deaf-blind Experience Zone: A unique experiential activity allowed participants to understand the daily challenges faced by visually and aurally challenged children by using blindfolds and noise-cancelling headphones.

The SPARSH Project: Transforming Lives

The SPARSH project, launched in 2017, has grown to support 133 beneficiaries across Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Pathanamthitta, and Kanyakumari districts. With 15 dedicated staff members and two resource centres equipped with sensory rooms, classrooms, and physiotherapy units, SPARSH provides essential services such as individualised education plans (IEP)vocational training, and assistive devices to enhance the lives of children and adults with deafblindness.

MSSS has also fostered parent network groups, including “Velicham” in Thiruvananthapuram and “Thalir” in Kanyakumari, to empower parents to advocate for their children’s rights and function as a unified collective.

MSSS: A Beacon of Social Service

Founded in 1961, MSSS has established itself as a pioneer in promoting socio-economic development for marginalised communities across Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Recognised by the United Nations with Special Consultative Status with ECOSOC since 2016, the MSSS has consistently demonstrated its commitment to serving the poor and disadvantaged, regardless of religion, caste, or creed. Its services span 215 villages, reaching over 8 million people, and encompass areas such as sustainable farming, healthcare, and education.

Vision and Mission

Guided by Gospel values, MSSS envisions a just society rooted in equity and social harmony. Its mission revolves around strengthening community-based organisations to enhance the creative potentials of individuals and groups, thereby fostering sustainable development.

Training for Young Family Apostolate Leaders Held at Catholicate Centre

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A comprehensive training programme for Directors, Animators, Coordinators, and Resource Team Members involved in the Young Family Apostolate Mission was conducted on 6th and 7th December 2024 at the Catholicate Centre.

The event was inaugurated by the Curia Bishop, His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Antony Mor Silvanos, who offered his blessings and inspiring words to the participants. In his inaugural address, Bishop Silvanos emphasised the significance of empowering leaders to guide young families on their spiritual journey and deepen their commitment to the Church.

The main message of the programme was delivered by His Grace Most Rev. Dr. Thomas Mor Eusebius, Chairman of the Synodal Commission for Young Family Apostolate Mission. His Grace encouraged the attendees to take an active role in nurturing the spiritual growth of young families, aligning their efforts with the Church’s mission of fostering a Christ-centred family life.

The training sessions featured insightful discussions led by prominent resource persons, including:

  • Rev. Fr. Thomas Madakkummoottil, Director of the Young Family Apostolate Mission at the Church level.
  • Rev. Fr. Dr. Joseph Valliyatt, who provided theological insights and practical guidance.
  • Sr. Mary Dominic D.M., who shared valuable experiences and strategies for effective family apostolate work.

The two-day event focused on equipping leaders with the skills and knowledge necessary to address the spiritual, social, and pastoral needs of young families within the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church. Participants engaged in interactive sessions, workshops, and prayerful reflections, leaving them motivated and prepared to carry forward the Church’s mission of service.

The training highlighted the Church’s unwavering commitment to strengthening young families, fostering faith, and building a community rooted in Gospel values.

Synodal Commission for Social Apostolate Meeting

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The annual meeting of the Synodal Commission for Social Apostolate was convened on 7th December 2024 at the Catholicate Centre, Pattom, Trivandrum.

The session was presided over by His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Antony Mor Silvanos, Curia Bishop of the Major Archieparchy of Trivandrum, who emphasised the significance of fostering social outreach activities rooted in the teachings of Christ.

The meeting assessed the commission’s previous year’s initiatives, focusing on its social empowerment programmes, charitable projects, and community development efforts. Discussions also included planning innovative approaches for the upcoming year.

Rev. Fr. George Vettikkattil, Secretary of the Commission, led the arrangements for the meeting. Representatives from various dioceses, commission members, and experienced social workers contributed their valuable insights during the deliberations.

The Synodal Commission for Social Apostolate reiterated its commitment to empowering marginalised communities, providing education and healthcare, and enhancing social justice through faith-based initiatives.

This gathering underscored the collective mission to serve humanity with compassion and unity, inspired by the love of Christ and guided by the principles of the Church.

Meeting of the Synodal Commission for Education

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The Synodal Commission for Education convened its meeting on 7th December 2024 at the Catholicate Centre in Pattom, Trivandrum.

Leadership and Agenda

The meeting was chaired by His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Joseph Mor Thomas, Bishop of Bathery and Chairman of the Synodal Commission for Education. The discussions focused on evaluating the Commission’s ongoing initiatives and formulating strategies to further enhance educational programmes across the Church’s institutions. His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Mathews Mor Polycarpos, Auxiliary Bishop of the Major Archieparchy of Trivandrum, was also present at the meeting, lending his valuable insights to the discussions.

Organisation and Coordination

The meeting arrangements were effectively overseen by Dr. Benedict K. Y., Secretary of the Commission, who ensured smooth facilitation of the proceedings.

The gathering underscored the Church’s unwavering dedication to advancing education as a cornerstone of community development and faith formation, aligned with the values of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church.

Prof. Dr. Giby Geevarghese Appointed as Member of KCBC Women’s Commission

Prof. Dr. Giby Geevarghese, an esteemed associate professor in psychology at Mar Theophilus Training College and a dedicated member of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church, has been appointed to the prestigious Kerala Catholic Bishops’ Council (KCBC) Women’s Commission. This new role highlights her immense contributions to education, psychology, and the empowerment of women in Kerala.

KCBC’s Other Appointments

The KCBC has also announced the appointments of several other distinguished members to its commissions, reflecting a diverse and dedicated group of individuals committed to the Church’s mission. Rev. Fr. Milton Sebastian Kalapurakkal (Alappuzha Diocese) has been appointed as the Secretary of the Media Commission, while Fr. Ditto Koola (Thrissur Archdiocese) assumes the role of Secretary for the Youth Commission, and Fr. Arun Valiyathazhat (Kothamangalam Diocese) has been named the Secretary of the Labor Commission. Additionally, Fr. Antony Lijo Odathakkal (Varapuzha Archdiocese) has been entrusted with the role of General Secretary for KCSL.

Dr. Giby’s Distinguished Academic Career

Dr. Giby Geevarghese, a former Chairperson of the Board of Studies in Education at the University of Kerala, holds an impressive array of qualifications, including multiple postgraduate degrees, an MPhil, and a PhD. With a career that spans decades, she has served as a research guide in education and contributed to numerous national and international seminars, workshops, and conferences. Her research and academic work have been pivotal in shaping educational policies and practices in Kerala.

Her published works, such as Raksha Karthrithwam – Bahu Karthrithwam and Kalpanikathayude Kaivazhikal, reflect her deep understanding of psychology and her commitment to promoting social progress. She has been recognised with accolades, including the N.P. Pillai Memorial Literary Award and the KCBC Women’s Commission Award, demonstrating her excellence in both academic and social spheres.

Leadership in Community and Faith

Dr. Giby has consistently combined her academic expertise with a strong commitment to community service. She has been a resource person for numerous media outlets, including Doordarshan, Soorya, and Asianet, where she has provided insights on mental health, mindfulness, and education. Her leadership roles include serving as the Vice President of the Kerala Catholic Council and as Joint Secretary of the KCBC Women’s Commission. These roles underscore her dedication to integrating faith and professional expertise to benefit the community.

Contributions to the KCBC Women’s Commission

The appointment of Dr. Giby Geevarghese to the KCBC Women’s Commission is evidence of her efforts in advocating for women’s rights and education. Her experience as a resource person, counsellor, and academician uniquely positions her to contribute to the Commission’s vision of empowering women within the Church and society at large. She has also been a proponent of gender sensitisation, evident through her workshops and seminars addressing critical social issues.

A Syro-Malankara Catholic Luminary

Dr. Giby’s appointment is a moment of pride for the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church, presenting its commitment to recognising and uplifting individuals who contribute meaningfully to society. Her journey exemplifies the Church’s values of service, education, and spiritual growth.

A Vision for the Future

As she steps into this new role, Prof. Dr. Giby Geevarghese is poised to bring her wealth of knowledge and experience to the forefront of the KCBC Women’s Commission. Her vision and dedication will undoubtedly help further the Commission’s mission of creating an equitable and inclusive society rooted in faith and compassion.

This appointment not only honours Dr. Giby’s contributions but also inspires many within the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church and beyond to strive for excellence in their service to God and humanity.

Final Profession by Bro. Stanly Thomas OIC and Bro. John Mathew OIC

The Bethany Ashram Ramwadi, Pune, will be the sacred venue for a significant spiritual milestone in the lives of Bro. Stanly Thomas OIC and Bro. John Mathew OIC, who will profess their Final Vows in the presence of the Bethany community, clergy, and faithful. The ceremony is scheduled to take place on Friday, 6th December 2024, at 6:30 PM.

A Life of Commitment

The Final Profession is a solemn and sacred declaration of lifelong commitment to the Order of the Imitation of Christ (OIC), also known as the Bethany Fathers and Brothers. By professing their Final Vows, Bro. Stanly Thomas and Bro. John Mathew will embrace lives dedicated to prayer, community living, and service in the spirit of Christ.

About the Ceremony

The event will be marked by a solemn Holy Qurbono (Divine Liturgy), during which the vows will be professed. The celebration will include blessings and prayers led by prominent clergy members of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church, with Bethany Ashram’s spiritual and monastic traditions adding to the sanctity of the occasion.

About the Brothers

Bro. Stanly Thomas OIC: Known for his humility and dedication, Bro. Stanly has been an inspiration to those around him, embodying the values of compassion and service as he prepares for this ultimate step in his religious life.

Bro. John Mathew OIC: A brother admired for his spiritual insight and unwavering faith, Bro. John has touched the lives of many through his exemplary journey of faith and service within the Bethany congregation.

About the Bethany Ashram, Ramwadi

The Bethany Ashram in Ramwadi, Pune, serves as a centre for spiritual renewal and pastoral mission for the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church. It has been a nurturing home for numerous religious brothers who have dedicated their lives to the Church’s mission.erves as a centre for spiritual renewal and pastoral mission for the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church. It has been a nurturing home for numerous religious brothers who have dedicated their lives to the Church’s mission.

Cardinal Cleemis to Launch Official Malankara Mobile App on January 2, 2025

In an exciting step toward fostering greater connectivity and spiritual engagement among the faithful, the Malankara Syrian Catholic Church is set to launch its official mobile application on January 2, 2025. This innovative app, aptly named “Malankara,” will be available for both Android and iOS devices, bringing the Church’s resources and services to the fingertips of its members.

The app will be unveiled by His Eminent Beatitude Cardinal Moran Mor Baselios Cleemis Catholicos, Major Archbishop-Catholicos of the Malankara Syrian Catholic Church, as a New Year’s gift to the Church community. Developed under the guidance and blessings of His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Antony Mor Silvanos, the Curia Bishop and Chairman of the Media Commission, the app was meticulously created by the Malankara Library team.

Key Features of the Malankara Mobile App:

  1. Our Church
    • Comprehensive Church history.
    • Biographical details and photographs of Blessed Mar Ivanios and past fathers.
    • Profiles of all dioceses.
  2. Lectionary
    • Daily readings in English and Malayalam, including feast days and saints’ biographies.
    • Sunday readings organised based on the seven liturgical seasons.
    • Memorial days for significant Church leaders and feast days.
  3. Liturgy
    • Prayer books in Malayalam, Tamil, English, Hindi, and Malayalam transliteration.
  4. POC Bible Integration
    • Direct access to the POC Bible app for download and usage.
  5. Location & Mass Times
    • Detailed maps of all Church locations.
    • Assistance in finding nearby churches and their Mass schedules based on the user’s location.
  6. News and Events
    • Links to the Catholicate News portal for the latest updates.
    • Calendar of key Church events.
  7. Catechism
    • Sunday school materials available in English and Malayalam.
  8. Intercession
    • Submission of prayer requests to the intercession team at the tomb chapel of Blessed Mar Ivanios.
  9. Hymns & Songs
    • Prayer songs with lyrics and audio support for spiritual gatherings.
  10. Videos
    • Access to Malankara Catholic TV and other curated video content.
  11. Library
    • Extensive digital library of Church books available for reading and downloading.
  12. Prayers
    • Holy Qurbono liturgy, daily prayers, Sh’himo, and fasting prayers in a user-friendly format.
    • Options to customise font size, colour, and scrolling preferences.
  13. Bookmarks
    • Quick access to favourite prayers for convenience during spiritual routines.

A Collaborative Effort

The app reflects the dedication and expertise of Rev. Fr. Sebastian John Kizhakkethil, whose guidance and commitment were instrumental in its development.

Early Access Available

For those eager to explore the app ahead of its official launch, the Malankara Mobile Application is currently available in beta mode to download on the Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

The Church extends its heartfelt congratulations and gratitude to Rev. Fr. Kizhakkethil and the Malankara Library team for their unwavering efforts in making this app a reality.

This mobile application is poised to become an indispensable spiritual companion for members of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church, enabling deeper engagement with the Church’s liturgical practices, history, and spiritual traditions.

Let us join hands to embrace this initiative and enrich our spiritual journey. Download the app from the Play Store or App Store by searching for “Malankara.”

Malankara Syrian Catholic Church Suvishesha Sangam General Body Meeting

The General Body Meeting of the Malankara Syrian Catholic Church Evangelisation Team was held on 3rd and 4th December 2024 at the Catholicate Centre, Pattom, Trivandrum.

The gathering focused on evaluating the evangelisation initiatives undertaken during the year and formulating strategies for the upcoming year to spread the Word of God more effectively.

His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Antony Mor Silvanos, Bishop of the Major Archiepiscopal Curia, and Rev. Fr. Benedict Moozhikkara O.I.C., Executive Secretary of the Evangelisation Apostolate, attended the event, lending their invaluable guidance and support to the proceedings.

The meeting witnessed the active participation of clergy, evangelisation coordinators, and representatives from various dioceses, reflecting the collective commitment of the Church to its mission of evangelisation.

Further details on the deliberations and outcomes of this meeting will be shared soon, showcasing the Church’s enduring dedication to fostering faith and service.