Tiruvalla witnessed a significant milestone in the ecumenical journey of Kerala’s Christian community with the Ruby Jubilee celebrations of the Nilackal Ecumenical Trust, held at St. John’s Cathedral on September 25, 2024. The event, which brought together clergy and religious leaders from various Episcopal churches across Kerala, marked 40 years of the Nilackal Ecumenical Movement, a beacon of Christian unity and cooperation.
The joint clergy and religious conference, organised as part of the Jubilee celebrations, reflected the deepening sense of fraternity and shared mission among the Syro-Malankara, Mar Thoma, Orthodox, CSI, and Knanaya Jacobite churches. This historic conference, the first of its kind in Kerala, aimed to promote stronger ties between the Episcopal communities and strengthen their collective commitment to Christian unity and evangelical mission.
Inauguration and Keynote Addresses
The conference commenced at 9:30 AM, chaired by Dr. Theodosius Mar Thoma Metropolitan, Chairman of the Nilackal Ecumenical Trust and head of the Mar Thoma Church. The conference was inaugurated by His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Joshua Mor Ignathios, the Bishop of Mavelikkara and Vice President of the Nilackal Ecumenical Trust, who emphasised the importance of continuing the ecumenical spirit fostered by the Nilackal Ecumenical Movement.
Delivering the keynote address, Archbishop-elect Mar Thomas Tharayil, the newly appointed Archbishop of the Changanassery Archdiocese, reflected on the challenges faced by the Christian community in an ever-changing world. He urged the faithful to stay united and strong in their witness to Christ, especially in addressing the pressing issues of modern society. His words underscored the significance of ecumenism not just as a theological concept but as a practical necessity for Christians today.
Contributions from Distinguished Leaders
The Ruby Jubilee celebrations saw the participation of numerous church leaders and dignitaries, each contributing to the spirit of unity and shared purpose. His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Joseph Kallarangatt, Bishop of Pala, and His Excellency Kuriakose Mar Severios, head of the Knanaya Jacobite Church, delivered blessings, each highlighting the historical and spiritual significance of the Nilackal Ecumenical Trust in fostering Christian brotherhood.
His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Joseph Mar Barnabas, Suffragan Metropolitan of the Ranni-Nilackal Diocese of the Mar Thoma Church, gave an insightful blessing speech. He reminded the audience of the foundational role Nilackal played in the history of Indian Christianity and praised the ecumenical movement for continuing that legacy by fostering understanding and cooperation among the Episcopal churches of Kerala.
In his address, Monsignor Isaac Parappallil, Vicar General of the Tiruvalla Archdiocese, reflected on the challenges of maintaining unity amidst diversity, particularly in a pluralistic society like India. Sister Dr. Ardra SIC, Superior General of the Bethany Sisters, also spoke, representing the religious congregations of Kerala and reaffirming their commitment to the evangelical mission.
Panel Discussion on the Nilackal Movement
A key feature of the conference was a panel discussion moderated by His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Joshua Mor Ignathios, centred on the theme “The Nilackal Ecumenical Movement: Unity and Evangelical Mission of the Mar Thoma Churches.” The discussion was opened by Father Dr. M.O. John, a former trustee of the Orthodox Church, who presented an overview of the Nilackal Ecumenical Trust’s historical journey and its role in promoting ecumenism.
The panel featured prominent religious figures, including His Excellency Bishop Mathews Anthimos of the Jacobite Syrian Church and Auxiliary Bishop Geevarghese Mar Aprem of the Kottayam Archdiocese. Reverend Dr. Geevarghese Kuttiyil OIC, Superior General of the Bethany Monastic Community, and Reverend Thomas Koshy Panachamoottil, Secretary of the Ranni-Nilackal Diocese of the Mar Thoma Church, shared insights into the challenges and opportunities facing the churches as they work together in their evangelical mission. Reverend Soji John Varghese, Finance Convener of the Jubilee celebrations, also contributed to the discussion.
This dialogue provided a platform for the leaders to reflect on the shared heritage of Kerala’s Christian churches, while addressing contemporary concerns such as evangelisation, social justice, and the need for a unified Christian voice in addressing societal issues.
Bible Study and Ecumenical Hymns
The retired CSI Bishop Dr. Thomas Samuel led a thought-provoking Bible study, delving into the scriptural foundations of Christian unity and the importance of collaboration in mission. His study, rooted in scripture, resonated with the central theme of the conference, urging all denominations to move beyond their doctrinal differences and work together for the common good.
Adding to the spiritual ambience of the event, choirs from various denominations performed ecumenical hymns. The St. John’s Cathedral Choir, the Mar Thoma Church Clergy Choir, the Orthodox Church Choir, the CSI Choir, and the Bethany Sisters’ Choir, among others, lifted the congregation with their harmonious renditions, symbolising the unity that the Nilackal Ecumenical Movement strives to achieve.
Significance of the Nilackal Ecumenical Trust
Established in 1984, the Nilackal Ecumenical Trust has been a pioneering force in bringing together Kerala’s Christian denominations. With the Nilackal region holding historical significance as one of the earliest Christian sites in India, the Trust has worked tirelessly over the past 40 years to ensure that the spirit of Christian unity remains strong. The Trust’s efforts have been instrumental in promoting ecumenical dialogue and cooperation, not only in Kerala but across India.
As Dr. Theodosius Mar Thoma Metropolitan, Chairperson of the Trust, noted in his concluding remarks, “The Nilackal Ecumenical Movement is more than just an organisation; it is a testament to the possibility of unity amidst diversity, a call to Christians everywhere to stand together as one body in Christ.” His Grace’s words encapsulated the spirit of the day, reminding all present of the continuing need for the Nilackal Trust’s work in a world where division often prevails.
Conclusion: A Path Forward in Unity
The Ruby Jubilee celebrations of the Nilackal Ecumenical Trust stand as a powerful reminder of the strength that comes from unity. In bringing together the diverse Christian traditions of Kerala, the conference embodied the trust’s commitment to fostering ecumenical dialogue and cooperation.
As the celebrations came to a close, it was clear that the Nilackal Ecumenical Movement remains a vital force for unity within Kerala’s Christian community. The conference ended with a strong resolve to continue building bridges, both within the Christian community and beyond, ensuring that the message of the Gospel reaches every corner of society through a united, collaborative witness.
This historic event, marking 40 years of ecumenical progress, stands as a beacon of hope for the future, with the promise that the unity of Christ’s followers will continue to grow and thrive.
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