Vicar Generals’ Meeting Discusses Centenary Celebrations and Year of the Word

Thiruvananthapuram: In preparation for the Malankara Syrian Catholic Church’s Centenary of Reunion in 2030, a crucial meeting of all diocesan Vicar Generals was held on June 17, 2024, at the Catholicate Centre in Thiruvananthapuram. The meeting was presided over by Moran Mor Baselios Cardinal Cleemis Catholicos.

The Reunion Movement of 1930

The Reunion Movement of 1930 marked a significant turning point for the Malankara Syrian Catholic Church. Led by Archbishop Mar Ivanios, the movement aimed to reunite the Malankara Church with the Catholic Church, emphasizing unity and spiritual renewal. This historic event not only re-established the Malankara Church’s communion with the Roman Catholic Church but also strengthened its identity and mission. The Centenary of this reunion in 2030 is a momentous occasion that celebrates a century of faith, growth, and unity.

Planning for the Centenary Celebrations

In light of this significant milestone, the meeting of Vicar Generals focused on outlining the activities and plans for the Centenary celebrations. The meeting discussed the framework and events to be organized from September 20, 2024, to September 19, 2025, designated as the “Year of the Word.” The Year of the Word aims to deepen the faithful’s engagement with Scripture and enhance their spiritual lives.

Key Participants and Roles

His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Abraham Mar Julios, Chairman of the Word Year Celebrations, and His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Antony Mar Silvanos, the Coordinator, played significant roles in the discussions. They highlighted the objectives and strategies for the Year of the Word, ensuring it aligns with the church’s mission and the centenary celebrations’ spirit.

Rev. Fr. Sebastian Edayath and Rev. Fr. Cyril Anand OIC, appointed as coordinators for the Centenary celebrations, also attended the meeting. Their responsibilities include overseeing the planning and execution of various initiatives and programs to mark this historic occasion.

Discussions and Outcomes

The Vicar Generals deliberated on a range of topics, including:

• Spiritual Enrichment: Plans for retreats, seminars, and prayer sessions to foster spiritual growth among the faithful.
• Community Engagement: Strategies to involve the broader community in the celebrations, emphasizing unity and collective participation.
• Educational Initiatives: Programs to educate the faithful about the church’s history and the significance of the Reunion Movement.
• Cultural Events: Organizing cultural events that reflect the rich heritage and traditions of the Malankara Syrian Catholic Church.

The meeting underscored the importance of the Centenary celebrations in commemorating the church’s journey since the Reunion Movement of 1930. It emphasized the need for meticulous planning and collaboration to make these events meaningful and impactful. The Vicar Generals expressed their commitment to working together to ensure the success of the celebrations, promoting unity, and deepening the spiritual lives of the faithful.

The Centenary of the Reunion Movement is a demonstration of the church’s resilience, growth, and unwavering faith. As the Malankara Syrian Catholic Church prepares to celebrate this historic milestone, it looks forward to a year filled with spiritual renewal, community engagement, and a reaffirmation of its mission and identity.