The Catholic Council of India’s (CCI) 15th General Body Meeting, held from November 15 to 17, 2024, at the St. Alphonsian Pastoral Centre in Pala, was a significant gathering of Church leaders, clergy, and laity from across the country. This national conference brought together representatives from the Latin, Syro-Malabar, and Syro-Malankara Catholic Churches to deliberate on the theme, “The Vital Role of the Laity in the Socio-Political Context of India.”
Representatives from the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church, including His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Joseph Mar Thomas, Bishop of Bathery, its eleven eparchial clergy, and lay leaders, actively participated in the discussions, offering unique perspectives rooted in the traditions of their Church. His Eminent Beatitude Moran Mor Baselios Cleemis Catholicos, Head and Father of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church, celebrated the Syro-Malankara Rite Holy Qurbono on the final day of the conference, a profound moment of spiritual unity for all present.
Faith and Fellowship in Action
The meeting began with a Latin Rite Holy Mass led by His Eminence Cardinal Oswald Gracias, Archbishop of Bombay. His homily encouraged all present to embrace their responsibility to bring Gospel values into society, emphasizing themes of inclusivity, collaboration, and service. Later, Archbishop Andrews Thazhath, President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI), delivered the inaugural address, focusing on the challenges faced by minority communities in India and the Church’s commitment to standing firm in its mission.
On November 16, attendees participated in a Syro-Malabar Rite Holy Mass at the Tomb of St. Alphonsa, led by Archbishop Thazhath. The liturgical celebrations, encompassing the three Catholic traditions in India, reflected the rich diversity of the Church’s liturgical heritage.
The gathering saw participation from over 174 dioceses across India, with deliberations centered on fostering active laity engagement in addressing societal challenges. Union Minister George Kurian, who inaugurated the conference, stressed the need for Catholic institutions to remain steadfast in their commitment to upholding constitutional values and human rights.
A Focus on Youth and Leadership
Among the Syro-Malankara delegation, Bijo P. Babu, a young leader from the Muvattupuzha Diocese, was a key participant. Elected as the Youth Delegate from Kerala to the Catholic Council of India, his involvement brought a renewed focus on the role of young people in shaping the Church’s future. Bijo’s journey from State President of KCYM to a national-level leader reflects the energy and dedication of the Malankara youth.
The conference also highlighted the pressing need for Church-led initiatives to address challenges faced by the marginalized, particularly Dalit Christians and Christian tribals. There was a strong call to defend their rights, including scheduled caste and tribe status, while promoting socio-economic empowerment through entrepreneurship and resource pooling.
Pilgrimage to St. Alphonsa’s Tomb
A pilgrimage to the Tomb of St. Alphonsa in Bharananganam provided a moment of reflection and prayer. Led by Cardinal Oswald Gracias, Archbishop Andrews Thazhath, and Cardinal Cleemis Catholicos, the visit underscored the enduring spiritual heritage that unites the Catholic faithful in India.
A Witness to Unity
On the final day, Cardinal Cleemis Catholicos presided over the Syro-Malankara Rite Holy Qurbono, with co-celebrants including Msgr. Isaac Parappallil, Fr. Andrews Thazhath, and Fr. Jolly Vadakkan. The Mass, attended by bishops and clergy from the Malankara tradition, celebrated the shared mission of the Church while highlighting its unique identity within the larger Catholic fold.
The presence of Syro-Malankara clergy and laity at this gathering was a testament to their commitment to the Church’s mission in India. Their voices, alongside those of other traditions, emphasized unity in diversity as a hallmark of the Catholic Church’s mission in the socio-political fabric of the nation.
A Meeting Rooted in Purpose
As the Catholic Council of India concluded its deliberations, it issued a statement addressing the challenges faced by Catholic communities in regions like Manipur and Munambam. The Council called for justice, peace, and active efforts to rebuild affected communities. It also outlined steps for empowering the laity, encouraging the establishment of professional organizations and promoting self-reliance.
For the Syro-Malankara Church, this gathering was a meaningful opportunity to engage with the broader Catholic community in India.
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