The renovated Madbaha at St. Behanan’s Malankara Syrian Catholic Church, Kodumon, was consecrated in a solemn ceremony led by His Eminent Beatitude Cardinal Moran Mor Baselios Cleemis Catholicos, the Major Archbishop-Catholicos of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church.
The consecration was further blessed by the co-celebrancy of His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Yoohanon Mor Chrysostom, Bishop Emeritus of Pathanamthitta, and His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Mathews Mor Polycarpos, Auxiliary Bishop of the Major Archieparchy of Trivandrum.
During his address, His Eminence Cardinal Moran Mor Baselios Cleemis Catholicos emphasised the role of places of worship as centres of spiritual renewal and social responsibility. He encouraged the faithful to live as compassionate and socially committed individuals, striving to support their fellow human beings without causing distress to anyone.
The event was graced by District Vicar Fr. Daniel (Santhan) Charuvil and Parish Vicar Fr. John Vilayil, who also addressed the gathering.
The celebrations continued with a Holy Qurbono led by His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Samuel Mor Irenios, Bishop of Pathanamthitta. The day concluded with a communal Agape meal and other parish activities, marking a spiritually uplifting and joyous occasion for the faithful of Kodumon.
The new block of St. John’s Community Hospital, Karamoodu, was consecrated and inaugurated on 13th December 2024, at 11:30 AM under the spiritual leadership of His Eminent Beatitude Cardinal Moran Mor Baselios Cleemis Catholicos, Major Archbishop-Catholicos of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church.
Extending Healthcare to Rural Communities
This initiative is a part of the Malankara Medical Village project, aimed at extending quality healthcare to rural communities. With branches at Odanavattom and now Karamoodu, the project focuses on providing medical services to underserved areas, ensuring that healthcare reaches every corner of society.
The construction of the new block was made possible through funds from the 2024 Major Archbishop Charity Project, an initiative led by His Eminent Beatitude to support healthcare and social welfare projects.
Distinguished Presence
The event witnessed the gracious presence of His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Mathews Mor Polycarpos, Auxiliary Bishop of the Major Archieparchy of Trivandrum, Venerable Vicars General, clergy, religious sisters, lay representatives, and local residents. Their participation underscored the unity and shared vision within the Malankara Catholic Church community.
Leadership and Organisation
The hospital operations are directed by Rev. Fr. Jose Kizhakkedath, whose dedication to community welfare has been pivotal in bringing this project to fruition. Supporting him were Rev. Fr. Antony, Rev. Fr. Alexander, and Rev. Fr. Aloysius, along with committed religious sisters and local community leaders.
A Milestone in Healthcare Mission
The Malankara Medical Village initiative symbolises a compassionate mission to ensure holistic healthcare for rural areas. The newly inaugurated block at Karamoodu is equipped to provide advanced medical facilities while upholding the values of compassion and inclusivity central to the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church.
This event reflects the Church’s unwavering commitment to societal welfare, uniting spiritual and physical healing under one roof. With continued guidance from His Eminent Beatitude, the Malankara Medical Village project stands as a testimony to the Church’s dedication to creating a healthier and more equitable future for all.
Ranni-Perunadu, Kerala – The Malankara Syrian Catholic Church celebrated the commencement of restoration efforts at Kurisumala Ashram, a site revered as a cornerstone of the Church’s reunification movement and a symbol of its spiritual heritage. The ashram’s sacred significance stems from its association with Saintly Mar Ivanios and his vision of unity in the Church.
The ceremonial inauguration was led by His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Samuel Mor Irenios, Metropolitan Bishop of the Pathanamthitta Diocese, who offered heartfelt prayers at the Church Unity Chapel. He also presided over the initiation of reconstruction works for the Stations of the Cross, marking a new chapter in preserving the spiritual legacy of this revered site.
Accompanying him were Monsignor Varghese Mathew Kalayil Vadakkethil, Vicar General of the Pathanamthitta Diocese, and Rev. Fr. Jins Meppurath, Diocesan Procurator. Parishioners and the faithful gathered to partake in this meaningful occasion, symbolising the collective commitment to preserving their sacred traditions.
The Spiritual Heritage of Kurisumala Ashram
Established on November 3, 1957, by His Grace Zacharias Mar Athanasios, then Bishop of Tiruvalla, Kurisumala Ashram was envisioned as a haven for spiritual seekers dedicated to prayer, contemplation, and labour. Nestled amidst the tranquil hills of Vagamon, Kerala, the ashram has become a vital spiritual retreat for the faithful.
Kurisumala Ashram embodies a spirit of communion that integrates the teachings of Christ, the wisdom of the Psalms, and a deep connection with creation. It has long served as a beacon for those seeking spiritual renewal, offering an environment where faith and reflection intertwine with meaningful work.
The ashram’s serene setting and its mission of nurturing spiritual growth have made it a cherished destination for pilgrims. Its legacy resonates with a profound sense of purpose, grounded in the values of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church and the vision of its founders.
Renewing a Sacred Legacy
The restoration project at Kurisumala Ashram is a significant step in preserving its spiritual and historical importance. By revitalising the Stations of the Cross and ensuring the sanctity of the ashram’s spaces, the Church renews its dedication to fostering faith and devotion among the faithful.
This effort is more than a physical restoration; it is a rekindling of the spiritual flame that Kurisumala represents. As the ashram continues to inspire pilgrims, the Church envisions it as a centre for deepening faith, promoting communion with God and creation, and passing on its rich legacy to future generations.
The quarterly gathering of clergy from the Pathanamthitta Diocese, combined with a heartfelt Christmas celebration, was held on Tuesday, 10th December 2024, from 10:00 AM at the Bishop’s House, Pathanamthitta. The event brought together priests to strengthen their fellowship and reflect on the spiritual significance of the season.
A Heartfelt Address from His Grace Zacharias Mar Aprem
The highlight of the gathering was the presence of His Grace Dr. Zacharias Mar Aprem, the Metropolitan of the Adoor-Kadampanad Diocese, who delivered an inspiring Christmas message. Despite experiencing physical discomfort and fever, His Grace’s message radiated profound depth and meaning, leaving a lasting impression on all present.
One of the most striking moments of his address was his poignant observation on unity among the Malankara Churches: “All the Churches in Malankara are like members of the same family living in different houses.”
These words, spoken from the depths of his heart, provided clarity and reassurance to many clergy, addressing lingering questions with simplicity and truth. His Grace’s open and heartfelt perspective resonated deeply, highlighting the spirit of unity and love that should define the Malankara Christian community.
Presence of Esteemed Bishops
The gathering was also graced by the participation of His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Samuel Mor Irenios, the Bishop of Pathanamthitta Diocese, and His Excellency Most Rev. Yoohanon Mor Chrysostom, Bishop Emeritus of Pathanamthitta. Their presence underscored the importance of this event and provided additional spiritual guidance to the clergy.
An Acknowledgment of Gratitude
The clergy expressed their heartfelt gratitude to His Grace Zacharias Mor Aprem for his meaningful message and his courageous effort to attend and share despite his physical challenges. His message not only enriched the Christmas celebration but also offered a renewed sense of purpose and direction to the gathered clergy.
The Pathanamthitta Diocese clergy gathering was more than an administrative meeting; it was a moment of shared faith, camaraderie, and spiritual renewal, paving the way for a blessed Christmas season filled with unity and joy.
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:
Parish Church – A source of sacraments and spiritual renewal.
The Holy Bible – Guiding the faithful in truth and wisdom.
Holy Confession – Cleansing the soul and reconciling with God.
Fasting and Abstinence – Strengthening the spirit through sacrifice.
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 VarikolitharayilOIC, Rev. 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.
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 Jose, Jesty 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:
Community Service: Engaging in charitable activities to support the underprivileged.
Faith Formation: Hosting retreats, catechism classes, and youth-led liturgies.
Cultural Exchange: Celebrating Kerala’s heritage while embracing Malta’s multicultural ethos.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
