The Syro Malankara Catholic Church successfully conducted its offline Theology Diploma Course, ‘Koinonia,’ on August 14 and 15, 2024, at the Catholicate Centre in Pattom, Kerala. This course is part of the Church’s ongoing mission to deepen theological understanding and provide a strong foundation for those wishing to expand their knowledge of theology.
The event was inaugurated by Rev. Fr. Dr. Jolly Philip Karimpil, Vice Rector of the Malankara Major Seminary in Thiruvananthapuram. In his inaugural address, Rev. Fr. Dr. Karimpil highlighted the role of theological education in strengthening both the spiritual and intellectual foundations of the Church.
His Beatitude Moran Mor Baselios Cardinal Cleemis, Catholicos of the Syro Malankara Catholic Church, delivered a special address, stressing the importance of initiatives like ‘Koinonia’ in enhancing the theological and spiritual life of the Church. His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Abraham Mor Julios, Bishop Emeritus of Muvattupuzha, and His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Antony Mor Silvanos, Bishop of the Major Archiepiscopal Curia, also participated in the event, offering their prayers and blessings to the attendees.
Prominent theologians who led the sessions included Rev. Fr. Dr. Abraham Charivupurayidathil (Gigi Philip), Rector of the Malankara Major Seminary, Rev. Fr. Joseph Valliyattu, Rev. Fr. Joseph Malayattil, and Rev. Fr. Varghese Naduthala. The two-day course covered a wide range of theological topics, aiming to provide both academic insight and practical application for the participants.
The ‘Koinonia’ Course: Enriching Theological Education
The ‘Koinonia’ Theology Diploma Course is an important initiative within the Syro Malankara Catholic Church, offering participants an opportunity to explore the depths of theological study. ‘Koinonia,’ meaning fellowship and communion in Greek, reflects the course’s goal of fostering unity and shared learning among participants.
By engaging with various aspects of theology, participants are encouraged to deepen their understanding of Church teachings and grow in their spiritual journeys. The sessions, led by respected theologians, provided a balance of traditional theological wisdom and modern insights, helping participants to apply these learnings in their roles within the Church and their communities.