Syro-Malankara Catholic Community in Cork and Ross Celebrates Significant Milestones

CORK, IRELAND – On Sunday, 8th October 2023, the Syro-Malankara Catholic Community of the Diocese of Cork and Ross gathered in joyful celebration at the Cathedral of St. Mary and St. Anne. The event was graced by His Lordship Bishop Fintan Gavin, who joined the faithful to commemorate several significant milestones in the life of the community.

Marking the Re-Union Anniversary

The day carried profound historical and spiritual significance as the community observed the 93rd Anniversary of the Re-Union of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church with the Catholic Church. This anniversary recalls the courageous step taken on 20th September 1930, under the visionary leadership of Servant of God Archbishop Mar Ivanios, to bring the Malankara Church into full communion with the Holy See. The anniversary celebration was a moment of deep gratitude and reflection, connecting the community in Cork with the larger Syro-Malankara Catholic tradition.

Pastoral Visit and New Beginnings

Bishop Fintan’s pastoral visit also included the inauguration of Sunday School Faith Formation classes, a crucial step in nurturing the next generation in faith and the Syro-Malankara Catholic traditions. The occasion was further blessed by the celebration of the Sacrament of First Holy Communion, with a number of children receiving the Eucharist for the first time. The sight of these young communicants, full of joy and innocence, was a poignant reminder of the importance of faith in family and community life.

Community Gathering and Celebrations

The event witnessed an overwhelming turnout of faithful, underscoring the vibrancy and unity of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Community in Cork and Ross. The celebrations were made even more special by the participation of Fr. John O’Donovan (Co-PP), Fr. Sean Crowley (CC), Fr. Cherian Thazamon, Fr. Shinu Varghese (CC), and Fr. Paul Thettayil IC, whose pastoral guidance enriches the life of the community.

The celebrations concluded with Bishop Fintan cutting a celebratory cake alongside the First Holy Communion children, symbolising the shared joy and collective faith of the community.

A Thriving Community of Faith

The Syro-Malankara Catholic Community in Cork gathers every Sunday afternoon at 2:30 pm for worship and fellowship. Events such as this highlight the strong bonds between the community and the universal Church, fostering a sense of unity and belonging that transcends geographical boundaries.

As the community continues to grow in Cork and Ross, they remain a testament to the enduring spirit of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church, rooted in the faith and vision of its founders while flourishing in new lands. The Diocese of Cork and Ross, under the leadership of Bishop Fintan, continues to extend its support and encouragement, ensuring that this vibrant community remains a beacon of faith and unity.