PATHANAMTHITTA: The Eparchial Committee of the Malankara Catholic Youth Movement (MCYM), Pathanamthitta, convened a press conference at the Pathanamthitta Press Club in preparation for the launch of its annual action plan, “Rhema 2K25.”
The official inauguration of “Rhema 2K25” is set to take place on 23 February at St. Augustine’s Malankara Syrian Catholic Church, Kaipattur.His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Yoohanon Mor Theodosius, Bishop of Muvattupuzha and Apostolic Visitator to Europe, will preside over the event and deliver the inaugural address.
Highlights of the Programme
🔹 Prominent advocate and social media influencer, Adv. Vinod Mathew Wilson, will lead a youth seminar addressing the role of young people in the Church and society. 🔹 MCYM Eparchial President, Bibin Abraham, will preside over the meeting. 🔹 The event will be a gathering of youth leaders from various ecclesiastical districts as the eparchy aligns its 2025 initiatives with the “Year of the Word of God” being observed by the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church.
Press Conference Attendees
The press briefing saw the participation of key MCYM eparchial leaders, including:
🔹 Rev. Fr. Scott Sleeba Pulimuden, Assistant Eparchial Director 🔹 Bibin Abraham, MCYM Eparchial President 🔹 Linto Thomas, MCYM Eparchial Vice President 🔹 Nibin P. Samuel, KCYM Senate Member 🔹 Sam Koshy, Pandalam Ecclesiastical District President
The MCYM of Pathanamthitta Eparchy is gearing up for an impactful year of faith-driven youth engagement through its various activities under “Rhema 2K25,” ensuring a spiritually enriching and socially relevant youth movement in alignment with the Church’s vision for the Year of the Word of God.
ONLINE MEETING HELD TO STRENGTHEN MIGRANT APOSTOLATE
The Episcopal Synodal Commission for Migrants of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church convened an online meeting on 17 February 2025 to deliberate on the significance and operational framework of the Migrant Commission.
Key Discussions and Participants
🔹 His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Philipos Mor Stephanos, Chairman of the Commission, led the session with a thematic presentation on “The Relevance and Functioning of the Migrant Commission.” 🔹 Rev. Fr. Thomas Madukkammoottil, Secretary of the Commission, extended a warm welcome to the participants. 🔹 The meeting saw the participation of Vicars General from various eparchies, regional coordinators serving in different countries, clergy, and lay representatives from both eparchial and regional levels.
Addressing Challenges and Planning Future Initiatives
The discussions centred around:
✅ The migration of Malankara Catholic families to different countries and the challenges they face. ✅ Country-specific pastoral concerns raised by representatives based on pre-submitted queries. ✅ Developing a structured framework for expanding and strengthening the Church’s pastoral care for migrants.
The meeting provided insightful reflections and strategic planning to enhance the Church’s outreach among migrant communities, ensuring their spiritual and communal well-being.
Dubai, 16 February 2025 – The Malankara Catholic Children’s League (MCCL) Day 2025 was celebrated with great devotion and enthusiasm by the Dubai community at St. Mary’s Catholic Church on 16 February.
The celebration commenced with a solemn offertory procession, led by MCCL leaders and representatives from all classes, symbolising the children’s dedication and commitment to their faith. Following this, Rev. Fr. John Thundiyath Cor Episcopo hoisted the MCCL flag in the presence of MCCL committee members, children, and teachers. The event continued with the oath-taking ceremony, affirming the young faithful’s dedication to Christ and the Church.
The gathering was a testimony to the unwavering faith and commitment of the children, teachers, and parents who play a pivotal role in nurturing the spiritual growth of the younger generation.
Tiruvalla, Kerala – The grandeur of a Christian’s calling is not merely in personal devotion but in the sacred responsibility to transform the world around them. This profound truth echoed through the halls of the Malankara Catholic Association (MCA) Tiruvalla Region’s annual gathering, where His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Geevarghese Mor Aprem, Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Kottayam, inaugurated the region’s pastoral initiatives and development projects for 2025–26.
Speaking with prophetic urgency, His Excellency reminded the faithful that the mission of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church is to be a bridge of unity—uniting communities in faith, charity, and shared purpose. “Each layperson is called not merely to exist within the Church but to be an agent of transformation in the world. We must become ambassadors of unity,” he exhorted.
The bishop reflected on the challenges facing Christian communities in Kerala, including declining Christian demographics, migration of the younger generation, and the fragmentation of familial bonds. “We live in a time when the dignity of human life is debated, yet laws exist to protect animals with greater vigour than they do for the vulnerable. Governments change, but the plight of the Christian community remains neglected. The time for Christian unity is not just near—it is overdue,” His Excellency warned, urging all faithful to stand together as a community bound by faith and action.
A Gathering of Leadership and Faithful
The programme was presided over by MCA Tiruvalla Regional President Mr. Biju George, with Rev. Fr. Mathew Vazhayil delivering the keynote address. Rev. Fr. Mathew Punakulam offered a special benedictory message. MCA National President Mr. S.R. Baiju, Mr. John Mamman, Mr. A.C. Reji, Mrs. Mini David, MCA Eparchial President Mr. Biju Palathingal, and Mr. Shibu Abraham were among those who addressed the gathering.
A symbolic handover of the pastoral action plan took place, where unit presidents and secretaries received the annual strategy document and the ceremonial lamp from the bishop, signifying their commitment to the Church’s mission.
Honouring Leadership and Launching Key Initiatives
The event also witnessed the felicitation of key MCA leaders, including Dr. Shibu Zachariah, Mr. Shaji Mathew Kooliyat, Mr. Baiju S.R., Mr. Shibu Chunkathil, Mr. Biju Palathingal, and Mr. Justin John, acknowledging their dedicated service to the Church.
The official launch of various mission initiatives followed:
MCA National President Mr. S.R. Baiju unveiled the pastoral mission document.
Eparchial Procurator Rev. Dr. Thomas Parackal released the Mission Karunya Project Brochure.
Dr. Shibu Zachariah inaugurated the Mission Aid Coupon Scheme.
Rev. Fr. Philip Thayillam launched the Catholic Convention Brochure, and Rev. Fr. Mathew Vazhayil conducted the first sale of mission aid coupons.
Participation and Unity in Mission
The event brought together 14 parish communities, with over 170 active members in attendance. Among the prominent priests who graced the occasion were Rev. Fr. Santhosh Azhakathu (Cherian), Rev. Fr. Thomas Kanjirathinkal, Rev. Fr. Cherian Kurisummoottil, Rev. Fr. Philip Mangattethu, Rev. Fr. Mathew Puthenpurackal, and Rev. Fr. Thomas Thoppilkalathil.
Leading the organisational efforts were Mrs. Binu John, Mr. P.C. George, Mr. Bersily Joseph, Mr. Jaymon T, Mr. Reji A.C., Mr. Saji Abraham, Mrs. Vasamma John, and Mrs. Jaya Mathew. The programme concluded with a public meeting, where General Secretary Mr. John Mamman welcomed the gathering, and Treasurer Mr. Shibu Abraham expressed gratitude.
This year’s MCA Tiruvalla pastoral initiatives reaffirm the Church’s mission—not just to preserve faith, but to live it boldly, advocating for unity, social justice, and the common good. As the faithful step into another year of service, the message is clear: the Church must stand firm, shine brightly, and work tirelessly in faith, charity, and unity.
Vatican City, March 23, 2025 – The Catholic Church worldwide gives thanks as His Holiness Pope Francis has been discharged from Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, where he had been receiving treatment since February 14 for bilateral pneumonia and respiratory complications. After 38 days of hospitalisation, the 88-year-old Pontiff has now returned to Casa Santa Marta at the Vatican, where he will continue his recovery under close medical supervision. Though his condition remains delicate, signs of gradual improvement bring hope and continued prayer from the faithful across the globe.
A Timeline of Pope Francis’ Health Crisis (Latest Updates First)
March 23, 2025
Pope Francis discharged from Gemelli Hospital after 38 days of hospitalisation for bilateral pneumonia and related health complications.
Pope Francis gives a thumbsup gesture from his window at Gemelli Hospital in Rome during his first public appearance in weeks on Sunday, March 23, 2025. | Credit: Screenshot/Vatican MediaPope Francis waves to the gathered faithful from the balcony at Gemelli Hospital in Rome on Sunday, March 23, 2025. | Credit: Vatican Media/Screenshot
Made a brief visit to the Basilica of St. Mary Major, where Cardinal Rolandas Makrickas laid flowers on his behalf before the icon of Virgin Salus Populi Romani.
Returned to his residence at Casa Santa Marta, Vatican.
Appeared publicly for the first time since mid-February, greeting and blessing crowds from a fifth-floor balcony at the hospital.
Angelus message distributed in writing; the Pope reflected on the day’s Gospel about the barren fig tree and shared his personal experience of “the patience of the Lord” during his hospitalisation.
Renewed call for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and expressed hope for the Armenia–Azerbaijan peace agreement.
Vatican officials confirmed he will continue recovery at Casa Santa Marta for at least two months, with ongoing oxygen therapy.
March 22, 2025
Vatican announced that Pope Francis would be discharged from hospital on Sunday, March 23.
Gemelli Hospital confirmed the Pope’s continued need for convalescence at his Vatican residence for approximately two months.
Holy See announced Pope Francis would make a brief public appearance on Sunday to bless the faithful from the hospital window, marking his first public engagement since mid-February.
March 21, 2025
Discharge Date Uncertain: The Vatican Press Office announced that Pope Francis’ discharge from Gemelli Hospital remains undetermined.
Therapy Adjustments: Ongoing improvement in gas exchange has allowed reduced high-flow oxygen during the day. At night, it is now used instead of mechanical ventilation.
Spiritual & Administrative Activities: The Pope remains in stable condition, continues with respiratory and physical therapy, prayer, and work. He has not received visitors recently.
Rosary & Diplomacy: Archbishop Richard Gallagher, Secretary for Relations with States, celebrated Mass for the Pope’s health, affirming that the Holy Father continues to serve the Church meaningfully, even in illness.
Surge in Letters: Vatican mail has increased by up to 150kg per day, with faithful sending messages of love and support.
March 20, 2025
33 Days in Hospital: Pope Francis marked his 33rd day at Gemelli Hospital.
Stable and Active: Despite ongoing treatment, he remains actively involved in Church governance, continuing to give instructions.
No Resignation: Cardinal Pietro Parolin firmly dismissed rumours of a papal resignation.
Gift to Buenos Aires: Pope Francis gifted his Presidential Medal of Freedom (awarded by President Biden) to the Metropolitan Cathedral of Buenos Aires.
Evening Prayer: The rosary was led by the Vatican Apostolic Archive and Library, with Archbishop Angelo Vincenzo Zani presiding.
March 19, 2025
Health Improving: Doctors reported the Pope’s condition continues to improve. He has ceased mechanical ventilation, and high-flow oxygen therapy has been reduced.
Mass for St. Joseph: He concelebrated Mass in honour of the Solemnity of St. Joseph, and spent the day in prayer, therapy, and limited work.
Lung Infections Under Control: Although present, they are now stable.
Message on Vocations: On the same day, Pope Francis released his message for the 62nd World Day of Prayer for Vocations, highlighting hope and service in vocational discernment.
Italian President’s Wishes: President Sergio Mattarella sent warm congratulations to Pope Francis for his 12 years as pontiff, praising his global influence and expressing prayers for his continued recovery.
March 18, 2025
Pope Francis Reflects on Fragility and Peace in Letter from Hospital
Pope Francis’ health remains stable with slight improvements, according to the latest Vatican update.
In a letter to Corriere della Sera, written from Gemelli Hospital on March 14, the Pope reflects on human fragility and how it clarifies life’s true priorities.
He urges for peace and disarmament, stating, “We must disarm words, to disarm minds and disarm the Earth.”
Addressing journalists, he highlights the power of words, warning that they can “connect or divide, serve the truth or use it for other ends.”
Despite his hospitalization, the Pope remains engaged in calls for diplomacy and international cooperation, emphasizing that war only devastates without resolving conflicts.
This evening, a rosary prayer service will be led by Cardinal Angelo De Donatis, organized by the Apostolic Penitentiary.
March 17, 2025
Pope Francis’ Health Shows Slight Improvements
The Vatican reports that Pope Francis’ condition remains stable with slight improvements, supported by respiratory and motor therapies.
His use of high-flow oxygen therapy has reduced, and he can now spend some time without oxygen support. At night, he continues to use noninvasive mechanical ventilation.
Addressing concerns about the swelling in the Pope’s hand, the Vatican clarifies that it was caused by decreased mobility but has already improved today.
The Holy Father spent the day in prayer, rest, and light work.
The next medical bulletin will be released on Wednesday.
March 16, 2025
Vatican Releases First Photo of Pope Francis Since Hospitalization
The first photo of Pope Francis since he entered Gemelli Hospital on February 14, 2025. Credit: Holy See Press Office
The first official photo of Pope Francis since his hospitalization on February 14 has been released.
The image shows the Holy Father seated before the altar in the 10th-floor chapel at Gemelli Hospital, where he concelebrated Holy Mass.
According to the Vatican, the Pope’s health remains stable, and he continues his prescribed respiratory and physical therapies.
On Sunday, the Pope did not receive visitors, instead dedicating the day to prayer, rest, and some work.
March 15, 2025
Pope Francis’ Health Remains Stable with Gradual Improvement
The Vatican reports that Pope Francis’ health remains stable, with his therapies showing further improvement.
While he still requires hospital medical care and physiotherapy, his need for high-flow oxygen therapy is decreasing, reducing dependence on noninvasive mechanical ventilation at night.
The Pope spent Saturday alternating between prayer, therapy, rest, and some work.
The Vatican maintains that his clinical situation remains complex but stable.
Pope Francis Approves 2028 Ecclesial Assembly from Hospital
Despite his hospitalization, Pope Francis approved plans for an ecclesial assembly in 2028, continuing the synodal process.
Cardinal Mario Grech, secretary-general of the Synod of Bishops, announced the postsynodal ecclesial assembly scheduled for October 2028.
Grech emphasized that the goal is not to create additional burdens but to help the Church embrace a synodal approach.
Prayers for the Pope’s recovery continue, with the Governorate of Vatican City State leading the nightly rosary, presided over by Monsignor Emilio Nappa.
March 14, 2025
The Vatican announces that updates on Pope Francis’ health will now be less frequent as his condition remains stable but complex after 29 days in Gemelli Hospital.
Evening briefings will now replace the morning updates.
Cardinal Pietro Parolin led a Mass for the Pope with diplomats at the Pauline Chapel.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy wished Pope Francis a speedy recovery in a phone call with Cardinal Parolin.
The Pope continues with respiratory therapy and spiritual exercises via video link.
March 13, 2025
Pope Francis marks his 12th anniversary as Pope while in hospital.
Hospital staff presented a cake, and he received hundreds of letters and drawings from well-wishers.
The Vatican confirms he continues oxygen therapy and physiotherapy.
The Pope participated in spiritual exercises via video and prayed in the hospital chapel.
March 12, 2025
The Pope spent a restful night and remains stable despite his complex condition.
A new X-ray shows slight improvements in his lungs.
The Vatican denies rumours about a possible papal trip to Turkey in May.
The Pope follows the Roman Curia’s Lenten retreat remotely.
March 11, 2025
Pope Francis’ health shows slight improvement, but he remains on oxygen support.
Doctors lifted the prognosis, indicating he is no longer in immediate danger.
He participated in spiritual exercises via live video.
The Vatican confirms no general audience this week.
March 10, 2025
The Vatican reports the Pope’s condition remains stable with ongoing improvement.
He continues Lenten spiritual exercises remotely from the hospital.
Doctors confirm he must remain hospitalised for several more days due to the complexity of his illness.
He spent the day alternating between prayer and rest.
March 9, 2025 – Pope Progressing Positively
The Vatican Press Office reports that Pope Francis spent another peaceful night at Gemelli Hospital.
Medical bulletins indicate a stable condition with a good response to treatment.
The 88-year-old Pontiff plans to join the Roman Curia spiritually for their Lenten retreat.
The Vatican will release the Sunday Angelus message in writing instead of a live appearance.
A rosary for the Pope will be led by Cardinal José Tolentino de Mendonça at St. Peter’s Square.
March 8, 2025 – “Stable with Slight Improvement”
The Pope’s health remains stable, showing gradual improvement.
Doctors confirm that oxygen levels and blood chemistry are stable.
The Pope received the Eucharist and spent time in prayer.
Medical staff maintain a reserved prognosis, emphasizing continued cautious observation.
March 7, 2025 – Pope Sends Message of Gratitude
Pope Francis recorded an audio message thanking the faithful for their prayers.
The Pope’s voice was hoarse and breathless, reflecting the impact of his respiratory struggles.
The Vatican confirms his condition remains stable as he continues physiotherapy and rest.
March 6, 2025 – Doctors Maintain Cautious Optimism
The Holy Father spent another restful night and is showing no further respiratory insufficiency.
Blood flow and oxygen levels remain stable, with doctors keeping the prognosis reserved.
The Vatican announced that the next major health update will be released on Saturday.
March 5, 2025 – Pope Receives Ashes on Ash Wednesday
Pope Francis participated in the rite of the blessing of ashes from his hospital room.
He also received the Eucharist and continued respiratory therapy.
The Vatican described his condition as “stable but complex.”
March 3-4, 2025 – Bronchoscopies and Respiratory Therapy
Pope Francis underwent two bronchoscopies after experiencing acute respiratory insufficiency.
He required mechanical ventilation overnight but remained alert and cooperative.
March 1-2, 2025 – Public Rosary Vigils for the Pope Begin
Mass prayer vigils started in St. Peter’s Square, with cardinals leading the rosary nightly.
The Holy Father’s condition stabilized after a critical respiratory crisis on February 28.
February 28, 2025 – “Respiratory Crisis” Reported
The Pope experienced severe bronchospasm, requiring oxygen therapy and a blood transfusion.
Doctors described his condition as “reserved”, signaling serious concerns.
February 22-25, 2025 – Pneumonia Treatment and Care
Medical teams confirmed bilateral pneumonia and adjusted treatment accordingly.
The Pope continued daily Eucharist and limited work activities while under strict medical supervision.
February 14, 2025 – Hospitalization for Bronchitis
Pope Francis was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital following persistent symptoms of bronchitis.
His schedule was cleared until February 17 to allow for rest and testing.
A Prayer for The Holy Father
As Catholics around the world lift up the Holy Father in prayer, the outpouring of love and devotion has been a testimony to the deep bond between the Pope and the faithful.
Nightly rosary vigils continue in St. Peter’s Square, drawing bishops, clergy, and pilgrims in fervent intercession for his healing.
A Prayer for Pope Francis’ Recovery
Heavenly Father,
We humbly come before You, lifting up Your servant Pope Francis in prayer. You, the Divine Physician, know the depths of his suffering. Lord, grant him relief from his respiratory distress, strengthen his lungs and body, and restore his health so that he may continue to serve Your Church.
In Your mercy, bless his doctors, nurses, and caregivers with wisdom and skill. May his breathing become steady, his lungs clear, and his body regain strength.
Through the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, may he be comforted in his trials, and may his recovery be swift and complete.
We entrust our Holy Father to Your care, Lord, praying in unity as one Church, in faith and hope.
Amen.
May God restore Pope Francis to health and bless him in his service to Christ’s flock.Viva il Papa!
Trivandrum – As the first light of dawn touched the St. Mary’s Major Archiepiscopal Cathedral, Pattom, an air of solemnity and joy filled the sanctuary. On 13th February 2025, seven deacons of the Major Archdiocese of Trivandrum received the grace of priestly ordination through the sacred hands of His Eminent Beatitude Cardinal Moran Mor Baselios Cleemis Catholicos, Major Archbishop-Catholicos of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church.
A Night of Reflection, A Morning of Anointing
The previous night had been one of profound spiritual intimacy. In the Chapel of the Tombs, the seven soon-to-be priests spent their final hours as deacons in deep prayer, accompanied by His Beatitude. The Major Archbishop-Catholicos, as a father preparing his sons for a sacred mission, stood beside them, calling them by name, offering personal words of guidance, encouragement, and blessing. His voice carried both paternal love and the weight of apostolic responsibility.
As the night surrendered to the dawn, the Church prepared to receive these new shepherds, anointed and consecrated to serve God’s people.
The Ordained Servants of Christ
Through the sacred laying of hands, the following deacons were ordained as priests:
Rev. Fr. Joseph Vadakkadathu – St. Mary Queen of Peace Basilica, Palayam, Trivandrum
The ordination ceremony was witnessed by numerous priests, religious sisters, families of the newly ordained, and the laity, who gathered in prayer and thanksgiving. The presence of esteemed bishops further elevated the occasion:
His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Vincent Mor Paulos, Bishop of Marthandam
His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Samuel Mor Irenios, Bishop of Pathanamthitta
His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Yoohanon Mor Theodosius, Bishop of Muvattupuzha & Apostolic Visitator to Europe
His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Antony Mor Silvanos, Bishop of the Major Archiepiscopal Curia
His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Mathews Mor Polycarpos, Auxiliary Bishop of the Major Archieparchy of Trivandrum
A Day of Blessing and Thanksgiving
Speaking on the occasion, His Eminent Beatitude Cardinal Moran Mor Baselios Cleemis Catholicos addressed the gathering, expressing his immense joy and gratitude:
“We are here with extreme happiness, filled with the Spirit. For our Church, our Major Archdiocese, and the families of these seven new priests, this is a day of divine blessing. Eleven years of rigorous formation, the prayers of so many, and the grace of heaven have culminated in this sacred moment.”
The number seven, His Beatitude noted, holds profound significance in Sacred Scripture. Seven is the number of completion and divine perfection, seen in the creation of the world in seven days, the seven sacraments, and the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit. It is a sign that these seven priests are called to be instruments of God’s grace, bringing completeness to the mission of Christ on earth.
Gratitude to Formators, Clergy, and Families
The Major Archbishop-Catholicos extended his heartfelt gratitude to:
The priests and sisters who guided them through their formation, from minor seminary, philosophical and theological studies, regency, diaconate ministry, and major seminary.
The parish priests who mentored them during their pastoral experience.
Fr. Francis and all seminary professors, particularly those from Aluva Little Flower Minor Seminary, for their dedication in both teaching and praying for these young men, ensuring their formation in both faith and moral strength.
Fr. Sheen Palakkuzhy and the seminary staff.
Fr. Dr. Abraham Charivupurayidathil, Rector of the Major Seminary at Nalanchira, for his leadership in shaping these new shepherds.
A Special Tribute to Parents
Turning his attention to the parents of the newly ordained priests, His Beatitude acknowledged their profound sacrifice:
“You have witnessed an experience today that is beyond anything else in life. All your years of sacrifice and encouragement have led to this moment. Until yesterday, you would say, ‘My son is studying to be a priest,’ but today, you can proclaim with joy, ‘My son is a priest in the Church.’ From this day forward, your identity is changed—you are now known as the parents of a priest. Wherever you go, in your parishes and communities, this honour will follow you.”
A Guiding Word for the New Priests
As a father guiding his sons into priestly ministry, His Beatitude offered words of wisdom:
Remain close to the altar of God.
Strengthen your hands in prayer, so they may serve the faithful with grace.
Be present among those in suffering, not merely among your own family.
Do not seek wealth or material comforts; your treasure is in serving the people.
Live simply, as our elder priests once did—do not become accustomed to luxury and excess.
With a touch of humour, His Beatitude looked at the newly ordained priests, checking if their joyful expressions remained unchanged after hearing these instructions.
Finally, he invoked a blessing upon their journey:
“May heaven strengthen their feet, fill their hearts with compassion, and give them a spirit of deep listening to the needs of God’s people. May they always carry the fire of faith and remain shepherds after Christ’s own heart.”
As the Church rejoices in the ordination of these seven new priests, the faithful of the Major Archdiocese of Trivandrum and beyond continue to pray for their priestly journey, that they may always remain true servants of Christ and His Church.
PERINGANAD: The poster for the much-anticipated 21st Venerable Mar Ivanios Memorial Bible Quiz Competition, “IVANIA,” was officially released by His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Joshua Mor Ignathios, Bishop of Mavelikara, in a special ceremony. The event, organised under the leadership of MCYM Peringanad, is set to take place on 20th July 2025 at 1:00 PM at St. George Malankara Syrian Catholic Church, Peringanad.
This annual Bible quiz serves as a tribute to the revered memory of Venerable Mar Ivanios, promoting a deep understanding of Scripture among the youth and encouraging them to grow in faith and knowledge. The competition has consistently drawn enthusiastic participation from across the eparchies of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church, making it a prestigious event in the Church’s spiritual and intellectual calendar.
As the preparations intensify, youth and Bible enthusiasts are eagerly gearing up for a challenging and spiritually enriching experience in the upcoming IVANIA 2025.
NALANCHIRA: The MCYM Nalanchira Unit successfully conducted “THEJUS 2K25”, a special preparatory session and adoration for Sunday School students preparing for their upcoming examinations. The event was held at St. Mary’s Major Archiepiscopal Cathedral, bringing together young students and their families for a time of spiritual and academic encouragement.
The session was led by Rev. Fr. Bibin David OIC, whose guidance and prayers provided strength and motivation to the children. The Sunday School students actively participated in the event, reflecting the deep-rooted commitment of the parish community towards faith-based education.
The MCYM Nalanchira Unit extends heartfelt gratitude to Rev. Fr. Bibin David OIC for his invaluable support and to the parents and children who attended. The parish community joins in prayerful wishes for all the students as they prepare for their exams, seeking the Lord’s blessings for wisdom, perseverance, and success.
The Kerala Catholic Youth Movement (KCYM), the official youth organisation of the Catholic Church in Kerala, has elected its state committee for the year 2025, with key leadership positions being taken up by members of the Malankara Catholic Youth Movement (MCYM).
MCYM Members Elected to KCYM Leadership
The MCYM Sabha-level leadership extends its heartfelt congratulations to the following members who have been entrusted with key responsibilities in KCYM:
Mr. Jibi Elias (MCYM Bathery Eparchy) – Elected as Treasurer of KCYM State Committee.
Mr. Jobin Jose (MCYM Tiruvalla Archieparchy) – Elected as General Secretary of KCYM State Committee.
Ms. Jeena George (MCYM Parassala Eparchy) – Elected as Secretary of KCYM State Committee.
Their elections reflect the strong participation of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church’s youth in the wider Catholic youth movement, taking forward the values of faith, service, and leadership.
Gratitude to Outgoing Leaders
As the 2024 leadership term concludes, the MCYM Sabha-level leadership expresses its gratitude to:
Mr. Shibin Shaji (MCYM Mavelikara Eparchy) – State Vice President of KCYM (2024).
Mr. Augustin John (MCYM Parassala Eparchy) – State Secretary of KCYM (2024).
Their dedication and contributions over the past year have strengthened the movement, fostering unity among Catholic youth across Kerala.
The Malankara Catholic Youth Movement remains committed to nurturing faith-driven leaders who serve both the Church and society, ensuring that the youth continue to be a vibrant force in the Catholic community.
Thiruvananthapuram, 3–6 February 2025 – The 11th batch of Hūdōtō, the ongoing priestly formation programme for clergy of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church, is being held at the Catholicate Centre, Pattom, from 3rd to 6th February 2025. This initiative, dedicated to the spiritual renewal and continued theological education of the clergy, is a significant part of the Church’s commitment to ongoing priestly formation.
Inauguration and Address by the Hierarchy
The inaugural session was presided over by His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Geevarghese Mor Makarios, Chairman of the Clergy Commission. His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Antony Mor Silvanos, Bishop of the Major Archiepiscopal Curia and Coordinator of the Formation Committee, delivered an inspiring address, underlining the importance of spiritual growth and pastoral excellence in the life of a priest.
On 4th February, the clergy gathered at the Tomb Chapel for the Holy Qurbono, celebrated by His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Antony Mor Silvanos. The solemn liturgy was followed by a special address from His Eminent Beatitude Cardinal Moran Mor Baselios Cleemis Catholicos, Father and Head of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church. His Beatitude spoke to the attending clergy, encouraging them to deepen their spiritual commitment and reaffirming their vital role in shepherding the faithful.
Formation Sessions and Organising Team
Throughout the four-day programme, various sessions and reflections are being conducted, focusing on theological insights, pastoral challenges, and personal spiritual renewal. The event has been meticulously coordinated by Rev. Fr. Thomas Madukkummoottiland Rev. Fr. Thomas Mukalumpurath, ensuring a seamless experience for all participating priests.
A Journey of Spiritual Renewal
Hūdōtō, meaning “illumination”, is a programme that embodies the Church’s vision of lifelong formation for its clergy, ensuring that priests remain grounded in their faith, enriched in wisdom, and committed to the service of the people.
As the 11th batch of this ongoing formation progresses, it stands as a powerful witness to the Church’s unwavering commitment to the spiritual nourishment of its priests. May this initiative continue to bear abundant spiritual fruits, strengthening the clergy in their sacred mission of guiding the faithful in the path of Christ.
