Malkto d Shaino ܡ ܠܬܟ ܐ ܕܫ ܝܢ ܐ Official bulletin of the eparchy Volume 5: Issue 3 August 2017 The in the USA and Canada
August 15 Feast of the Assumption
Queen of peace Official bulletin of the eparchy Vol. 5 August 2017 No.3 St. Mary, Syro-Malankara Catholic Eparchy in USA and Canada www.syromalankarausa.org
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OFFICE OF THE BISHOP Message from the Bishop Dear Reverend Fathers, Sisters and Lay faithful, The most predominant aspect of our experience as a Church all these years has been the amaz-ing providence of God that so miraculously sustains us and guides us. In our day to day life, in all the small and big events and activities of our Church, this providence has been powerfully at work. Continuing with this experience of constantly being wrapped in God s loving providence, the Malankara Catholic Church is blessed with a handful of new and significant canonical provi-sions. The Holy Episcopal Synod of the Church decided to bifurcate the Major Archdiocese of Trivandrum and form a new diocese, with Parassala as its headquarters. The new diocese has been formed by separating the three ecclesiastical districts of the Major Archdiocese, namely, Neyyattinkara, Kattakada and Parassala. The Synod also decided to appoint me, unworthy as I am, as the first bishop of the diocese of Parassala. Both these Synodal decisions were given approval by the Holy Father Pope Francis on August 5, 2017. The Holy Father further appointed His Excellency the Most Rev. Philipose Mar Stephanos as the second bishop of the St. 5
Mary, in the USA and Canada. The Holy Father also gave his approval to the following decisions of the Synod: Rev. Fr. George Kalayil of the diocese of Puttoor is appointed the second bishop of the diocese. Rev. Msgr. John Kochuthundil, the Vicar General of the Major Archdiocese of Trivandrum is appointed the Curia Bishop of the Church and Apostolic Visitator to the Syro-Malankara Catho-lic faithful in Europe and Oceania. The consecration of the two new bishops-elect will be held at Adoor on September 21, 2017 on the occasion of the 87th anniversary of the Reunion Movement. The new diocese of Parassala will be inaugurated and the new bishop will be installed on Sep-tember 23 at Parassala. The new bishop of Puthur will be installed on September 30 at Puttoor. The Most Rev. Philipose Mar Stephanos will be installed as the bishop of our Eparchy in the USA and Canada on October 28, 2017 at our Cathedral in New York. Let us raise our hearts in profound thanksgiving to God for His love and providence that has been so glaringly reflected in and through these provisions. We are deeply indebted to the Holy See, the Congregation for the Oriental Churches and the Holy Episcopal Synod of our Church which have functioned as the channels of these divine blessings. We, as an Eparchy in the USA and Canada are specially delighted and thankful to God that we are blessed with a new Shepherd in the person of His Excellency Philipose Mar Stepha -nos, who will bring to us his wealth of experience, personal holiness, erudition, pastoral effi-ciency and administrative talents. 6
Besides his committed pastoral involvements in the various regions of the Archdio-cese of Tiruvalla, he also served as the Rector of the St. Mary s Malankara Seminary, Vicar General of the Diocese of Tiruvalla, Director of Pushpagiri hospital, etc.. Since 2010, he has been serving as the Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Tiruvalla. With great enthusiasm and love, let us prepare ourselves to receive him as our Shepherd. Thanking you sincerely for your unfailing love and support and wishing God s continued blessings on all of you, Yours lovingly in our Lord, Thomas Mar Eusebius Apostolic Administrator 7
EPARCHY NEWS His Holiness Pope Francis Appoints New Shepherd for the in USA and Canada Holy Father Pope Francis appointed Most. Rev. Dr. Philipose Mar Stephanos as the second bishop of the St. Mary, Syro Malankara Catholic Eparchy in the USA and Canada. The appointment was made at the recommendation of the Holy Synod of the Syro Malankara Catholic Church. The announcement about this appointment was made concurrently in Rome and at the St. Mary s Cathedral, Pattom, Trivandrum, Kerala and at the Cathedral of the St. Mary, Syro-Malankara Catholic Eparchy in the USA and Canada on 5th August 2017. His Excellency Mar Stephanos, born on September 5th, 1952 and ordained to priesthood on 27th April 1979 was consecrated auxiliary bishop of the Archdiocese of Tiruvalla on 13 March 2010. Before his ordination to Episcopacy, His Excellency Mar Stephanos served the archdiocese as the Vicar General, Administrator, Executive Director of the Pushpagiri Hospital, Youth director and as an ardent missionary in the High Ranges of the Archdiocese and in the Delhi region. Mar Stephanos, who earned a doctorate in Moral Theology from the Academia Alfonsiana, Rome also served as the Rector of the Syro Ma- 8
lankara Catholic Major Seminary, Trivandrum. The priests, religious and the lay faithful of the St. Mary queen of Peace Syro -Malankara Catholic Eparchy in the USA and Canada with prayers welcome His Excellency Mar Stephanos. The date of the Sunthroniso (enthronement) of Mar Stephanos will be on October 28, 2017. His Holiness Pope Francis Approves the Appointment of Bishop Thomas Mar Eusebius to the Eparchy of Parassala His Holiness, Pope Francis has approved the appointment of His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Thomas Mar Eusebius as the first bishop of the newly erected Syro-Malankara Catholic Eparchy of Parassala, which has been formed by bifurcating from the Major Archdiocese of Trivandrum. The appointment was made by His Beatitude Moran Mor Baselios Cardinal Cleemis Catholicos at the recommendation of the Holy Synod of the Syro- Malankara Catholic Church. The appointment about the episcopal appointment and the canonical erection of the new eparchy was made concurrently in Rome and at the St. Mary s Cathedral, Patton, Trivandrum, Kerala on 5th August 2017 and at the Cathedral of the St. Mary, in the USA and Canada. His Excellency Mar Eusebius will continue 9
as the Apostolic administrator of the St. Mary, Syro Malankara Catholic Eparchy in the USA and Canada until his successor takes charge of the see on a date to be announced. The priests, religious and the lay faithful with much gratitude and prayers wish His Excellency Mar Eusebius and the new eparchy every blessings of the Divine Shepherd who always watches over His Flocks through the successors of the Holy Apostles. The date of the Sunthroniso (Enthronement) of His Excellency Mar Eusebius in the new Eparchy is on 23 September 2017. Priests Annual Retreat and meeting of the Eparchial Presbyteral Council The annual retreat of the priests of the Eparchy was held from July 10 to 14 at the Don Bosco Retreat Center in Rockland, New York. Rev. Dr. Joseph Pamplani, renowned preacher and the spokesperson of the Syro-Malabar Major Archiepiscopal Church preached the retreat. Many of the priests of the Eparchy participated in the retreat along with His Excellency Thomas Mar Eusebius, the Bishop of the Eparchy. On July 11, a meeting of the Eparchial Presbyteral Council was held and various pastoral issues were discussed. 10
Mar Ivanios Day Celebration On July 16, 2017, Mar Ivanios Day celebrations were conducted at St. Vincent De Paul Syro-Malankara Catholic Cathedral, Elmont. The celebration began with Holy Qurbono celebrated by Most Rev. Dr. Thomas Mar Eusebius and concelebrated by all the priests in the North-East region. Rev Dr.. Gigi Philip gave an inspiring reflection on the need for Evangelization and the manner in which it should be done. Bishop Thomas Mar Eusebius read the decisions of the Holy Episcopal Synod of the Syro-Malankara Church at the end of the meeting. Pastoral Council Meeting On September 2, 2017, the Pastoral Council meeting was held at 10 am in the Bishop s House, Elmont, NY. In the meeting, the Council was informed of the accounts until August 15, 2017. The Council, along with the Secretaries and Treasurers of the parishes, also discussed the plans for the Installation of the new bishop on October 28 and proposed the amounts that needed to be collected from each parish according to their strength. Moreover, the Council thanked Bishop Eusebius for his meritorious and miraculous service over the past seven years as bishop of the Eparchy, which was followed by a word of gratitude by Bishop Eusebius. The meeting was attended by 40 people. 11
NORTH-EAST REGIONAL FAMILY CONFERENCE The second of the three Regional Family Conferences planned for the current year in the Eparchy was held at the Syro- Malankara Catholic Cathedral, Elmont from August 5 to 6. The theme selected for the Conference is Cast your net into the deep. Rev. Dr. Jose Mariadas OIC was the chief resource person for the adult group. Around 310 faithful attended the Conference from our parishes in the region, namely Cathedral, Yonkers, Rockland, New Jersey, and Philadelphia. Rev. Fr. Noby Ayyaneth, the Pastor of our Cathedral parish was the Chief Coordinator of the Conference. Mr. Thundiyath Babykutty of the Cathedral parish served as the General Convener. 12
The Conference was very efficiently organized, thanks to the wholehearted cooperation and hard work of the Conference Committee members and Cathedral parishioners. His Excellency the Most Rev. Thomas Mar Eusebius, Bishop of the Eparchy participated in the Conference from the beginning till end. Renowned retreat preacher, Rev. Fr. Jose Mariadas OIC was the chief resource person for the senior adult group. For the young adults, the youth and children, Karina Coss and Avante Evelyn served as the resource persons. The junior youth were given classes by Fr. Michael Edathil and the children were taken care of by the Cathedral MCYM volunteers. The Conference also featured liturgical song presentation and cultural programs. The Conference was also blessed by the presence of Rt. Rev. Msgr. Peter Kochery, Rev. Fr. Augustine Mangalath, Rev. Fr. Mathai Mannoorvadakkethil, Rev. Dr. Saji Mukkoot, and Rev. Fr. Jerry Mathew, and our Bethany Sisters in Elmont and Philadelphia and the DM Sisters from Yonkers and City Island. YOUTH APOSTOLATE MCYMNA Leadership Camp The MCYM Leadership Camp was held at Summit Lake Camp at Emmitsburg, Maryland on August 17 to 20, 2017. The theme of the Camp was Timothy 4:12 - Let no one look down on 13
your youthfulness, but rather in speech, conduct, love, faith and purity, show yourself an example of those who believe. The event consisted of participants from throughout USA and Canada from as south as Houston, Texas to as north as Toronto, Canada. Talks were given by Marriana Leahy from the Culture Project, Christopher Thomas from Toronto parish, and Fr. Jerry Mathew. Additionally, there were several team building activities such as obstacle course, and paddle boating, along with daily Holy Qurbonos, Adoration and Confession on Saturday, and Q and A sessions. Throughout the weekend, all present were able to experience and recognize the bright and promising future ahead for the Malankara Catholic Church in North America. The participants left with renewed energy and newfound hope in the future of the Eparchy. Around 45 youth participated in this very successful youth event coordinated by the MCYMNA Board. Special congratulations to the MCYMNA Board for organizing this event. The Cathedral Parish PARISH NEWS Father s Day Celebration. Father s Day was celebrated on June 18 Sunday after the Holy Mass. Special prayers and Holy Mass were offered for our fathers on Father s day. Prayerful wishes and blessings were extended to all fathers by the Vicar and the MCYM presented the fathers with gifts as a token of love. Parish Picnic The parish picnic for this year was held on Saturday, July 8th at Belmont Lake State Park, Long Island. Various sports and games were also conducted during this event for all ages. Homemade dishes were a specialty at the picnic. His Excel- 14
lency Dr. Thomas Mar Eusebius and former vicar Rev. Fr. Sathyan Antony participated in the Picnic. Sunday School Ricebowl charity collection was conducted by the Sunday school students as part of lenten charity to donate to St. Jude Children s Research Hospital, New York. Bible Orientation Course (B.O.C.) was held on July 19, 20 and, 21. Rev. Fr. Jerry Mathew, Rev. Fr. Michael Edathil and Sr. Jocelyn Edathil and a team of Sunday school teachers and MCYM members made the BOC successful and productive. Special thanks to Rev. Sisters, Mrs. Jeny Chacko and the entire team of Sunday school and MCYM. 15
MCYM Seventeen MCYM members participated in the Eastern Region Getaway event at the Poconos held on June 16, 17, 18. Thirteen MCYM members attended the National Leadership Camp held at Maryland on August 18, 19, 20. The sincere and active participation of all MCYM members in various church activities are greatly appreciated. Graduates recognized 24graduates were recognized from Cathedral parish on July 9 Sunday after the Holy Mass. Special prayer was done for all the graduates in the Cathedral parish during the Holy Mass. All graduates were appreciated and blessed by His Excellency Dr. Thomas Mar Eusebius and plaques were presented by the Bishop. Family Conference Family conference for the Northeast region was held on August 5 & 6 at the Cathedral. Various programs such as Retreat, Liturgical Music presentation, Cultural Night etc. were the main events in the facility conference. More than 175 members from Cathedral parish participated in the family conference. Calgary The Mission in Calgary is progressing and have gainedfew new families, totalling 15 families, The Liturgy is celebrated every weekend and we gather for family prayer meeting monthly. It is encouraging that new families are coming to the mission occasionally, as we are getting established as a Parish Community. Address: Fr. Daiju Kuriakose, 640 19 Ave, NW, Calgary, AB, Canada, T2M 0Y8 Chicago From June 23rd thru 25th, the Midwest Regional Family Conference was hosted by St. Mary's Malankara Church of 16
Chicago. We had fellow churches from Detroit and Toronto take part in a weekend full of reflection and prayer - led by Rev. Fr. Joseph Puthenpurackal. There were over 200 participants who took part in the conference. On July 1, Annual Picnic which has been a tradition since the early years of our church was held. Many family members and friends gathered for a day full of games, competition and fellowship. On July 16, The church celebrated Mar Ivanios Day. Members of the parish did a padayatra (procession) around the church premises to honor our late founder. On Friday, July 28, Sisters Mariam, Ivan, and Sloosa (SIC) of the Bethany Convent requested our Chicago Malankara family to celebrate the Bethany feast. The evening consisted of evening prayer at 6 pm followed by the Holy Qurbono at 6:30 pm. After the Holy Qurbono, the Sisters provided dinner for all the guests 17
Detroit Twenty-two members of our parish including our Rev. Sisters and the Vicar participated in the Malankara Catholic Regional conference held at Chicago. All the fathers were honored on Father s Day in a felicitation meeting and lunch was served on that day. Feast of Rev. Fr. Pathrose Panuel was celebrated on July 2 nd. We conducted our annual picnic on July 4 th with sports and games. Food was served at the picnic. 18
On July 16, th the Feast of Mar Ivanios was commemorated along with the anniversary of all the pious organizations including Sunday School, with various programs. The highlight of the day was a food drive organized by the Mother s forum to benefit our church building. The event was a huge success. Dr. Joslyn Jose was congratulated in a felicitation meeting on August 6 th on the occasion of his graduation from medical school. A gift and a certificate was presented to Joslyn. The Feast of the Assumption of Our Lady was celebrated on August 12 th with Holy Qurbono and intercessory prayer. Houston Feast of Patron Saint We celebrated the feast of our patron saint, St. Peter on June 25, 2017. We began the celebration a week prior with the flag hoisting and were honored to have the presence of Fr. Koshy Kakkanatt Cor-episcopa with us for the event. A wonderful retreat was held on June 23 and June 24, 2017 and we were blessed to be led by His Excellency Dr. Samuel Mar Irenios. His inspirational messages gave us a guiding light and hope for the future and the proceedings. Pontifical Mass was held on June 25, 2017 and was celebrated by Irenios Thirumeni. All graduates were acknowledged and were given a token by Thirumeni. After Holy Qurbono, all members came together for a delightful lunch. Bible Orientation Camp Our Sunday School children participated in the annual BOC from August 10- August 12, 2017. MCYM and Sunday school teachers organized the camp with a theme of Superheroes. More than 65 children attended this year s BOC. Various speakers were brought in from outside our church to increase 19
our children s faith and knowledge. Some of the activities included Bible jeopardy, reading Bible verses, Praise and worship of the Trinity and reciting the rosary. His Excellency Dr. Thomas Mar Eusebius Farewell Mass We were blessed to have His Excellency Dr. Thomas Mar Eusebius celebrate Holy Qurbono with us on August 13, 2017, a week after the announcement that he will be the first bishop of the new diocese of Parassala in India. During his visit, we held a farewell event for him in honor of all his service and the support he has given to us. We were also fortunate to have Fr. Jose Mariadas with us. After the Qurbono, Thirumeni was able to attend our Sunday school anniversary which was in conjunction with BOC. Many kids did various programs including songs 20
and dances. Thirumeni presented certificates to all students who passed Sunday school. New Jersey https://stthomascatholic.church/ St. Thomas Day & Parish Feast Celebration The Parish celebrated its patron saint's feast on Sunday, July 2, 2017. His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Thomas Mar Eusebius was the chief celebrant of the Holy Qurbono and was joined by Rev. Jacob John and Rev. Michael Edathil as con-celebrants. At the conclusion of the Divine Liturgy the Parish bid farewell officially to Rev. Jacob John who served as Associate Vicar over 6 years. Pastor, Rt. Rev. Msgr. Peter Kochery thanked Jacob Achen for his tireless work and dedication to the Parish over the many years. Parish Council Secretary, Mr. Sunny Thomas and Treasurer, Mr. Geevarughese Mathew presented a plaque and gift to Achen, respectively. During the festal event the 2017 graduates of high school and college were recognized and 21
a certificates of recognition signed by Thirumeni were distributed. Rev. Michael Edathil Send-Off The Parish sadly bid farewell to Rev. Michael Edathil on July 23, 2017 who was the Associate Vicar for brief period. Although the parishioners were sad to see Michael Achen leave, we were extremely happy and proud of him for becoming the Pastor-Designate of St. Mary Syro-Malankara Catholic Parish in Washington, DC and the Eparchy Apostolate of Catechism. Although Michael Achen's tenure with NJ Parish was short he left a profound impact on the young and old with his enthusiasm to serve the Church, willingness to learn and teach, and special dedication of the formation of youth. May God continue to guide Fr. Michael in his ministry! Annual Parish Family Picnic New Jersey parish conducted its annual family picnic on July 29, 2017 at the Rahway River Park, New Jersey. The Lord blessed the parish with astonishing weather, wonderful company and delicious food. The young and old participated in various sports and leisure activities which built up their appe- 22
tites for delicious barbeque food. Parish Council Event Coordinator, Mr. Deepak Thomas did a wonderful job with the coordination of activities and management of food and drinks coordination. Eparchy Northeast Regional Family Conference Many members of the St. Thomas Syro-Malankara Catholic Parish of New Jersey attended the Eparchy Northeast Regional Family Conference 2017 held at the Syro-Malankara Cathedral in Elmont, NY. The Parish was humbled and extremely proud of its choir, led by Mr. Cecil Thomas and members, Mr. Philip John, Ms. Rency John and Ms. Tinsy Mary Varghese who sang the opening prayer song during the evening programs. The melodious song set the joyous mood entire evening. Holy Baptism Leela Grace Thomas, daughter of Paul Sunny Thomas and Chaitanya Challa, granddaughter of Parish Council Secretary, Mr. Sunny Thomas and Mrs. Susan Thomas, was baptized according to the Syro-Malankara Catholic Rite on August 19, 2017. New Members The Parish Family is extremely happy to welcome into its fold another family, namely Mr. Jose N. George, wife Mrs. Jipsy and sons Allen and Abin. Mr. Jose is the younger brother of long time parish member, Mr. George David. The NJ Parish heartily welcomes Mr. Jerry John Varkey, husband of Gini Varughese to the Parish family. To all our new members സ വ ഗത! 23
Philadelphia Parish Perunnal St. Jude Perunnal was held from June 17th through June 25th. Perunnal Kodiyettu was conducted on June 18th immediately after the morning worship. Fr. Jacob John raised the US Flag while Fr. Saji Mukkoot raised the Malankara flag on this occasion. On each day, we had evening prayer, St. Jude Novena and Holy Qurbono. Nercha was provided on these days by our parishioners. A different priest was invited to celebrate the Holy Qurbono and to lead the St. Jude Novena on each of the 9 days. Fr Daniel Poovannathil led the novena and message on Wednesday June 21st and Fr. Devasia Kuzhuppil delivered the Perunnal message on Saturday June 24th. Perunnal concluded on June 25th with solemn Holy Qurbono celebrated by our Vicar Fr. Saji Mukkoot, followed by Rassa, Kodiyirakku and Lunch. Bible Orientation Course BOC was held on June 30th and July 1st and the Sunday School Anniversary was held on Sunday July 2nd 2017. Ms. Caroline Soares came on June 29th and Dr. Antone Raymundo was with us on June 30th to conduct classes for the BOC participants. In addition, Fr. Saji Mukkoot, Sr. Jocelyn SIC and Sr. Benedicta conducted sessions for our BOC participants. Major- 24
ity of our Sunday school children participated in the BOC and there were plenty of volunteers from the St. Jude community on both days to help coordinate the various activities. A special talent show was organized by our Sunday school children during the anniversary. Prices for merit and attendance were also distributed on this occasion. Parish First Communion Our Parish first communion day was celebrated on July 8th, 11AM at St. Athanasius Church. This year, we had a combined Holy Qurbono service where 6 of our children received first Holy Communion. Parish Picnic The parish Picnic was held on Saturday July 22nd at the Samuel Carpenter Park in Horsham, PA. The weather was great and a record number of people participated in the event. It started with breakfast in the morning, various sports activities, competitions, barbeque and plenty of other entertainments. The picnic concluded by 5PM. Mar Ivanios Day The Commemoration of the Servant of God Archbishop Mar Ivanios was celebrated on July 16th Sunday. A public meeting was held immediately after the Holy Qurbono. MCA conducted a trivia about the life and career of Servant of God Archbishop Mar Ivanios. Philip John got the first place and Rajamma Edathil got the second place in the Trivia. Indian Catholic Heritage Day Indian Catholic Heritage Day was celebrated on Saturday, August 12th.The auxiliary Bishop of Philadelphia Archdiocese 25
Edward Deliman was the main celebrant. Priests from Syro- Malankara, Syro-Malabar, Knanaya Mission and the Indian Latin Rite concelebrated during the Holy Mass. A public meeting was held immediately after the Holy Mass where Fr. Saji was honored for the 25 years of his priestly service. Sr. Jocelyn, SIC was also honored for being the first sister from our community. A Bible Spelling Bee competition was held on this day and 8 members from St. Jude participated in this event. Our members Krupa Simon secured the first place and Mariel Sajan received the second place in the competition. A grand cultural program followed the public meeting where many members from St. Jude participated in singing and dance programs. Sacerdotal Silver Jubilee The silver jubilee of our Vicar Fr. Saji Mukkoot was celebrated on August 19th at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church in Bensalem, PA. Our diocesan Bishop Most. Rev. Thomas Mar Eusebius was the chief guest on this occasion. Priests, Sisters and lay representatives from Syro-Malankara, Syro-Malabar, Knanaya, Indian Latin Rite, Ecumenical Federation of Indian 26
Churches in Philadelphia, Indian American Catholic Association, and from the Archdiocese of Philadelphia were present during the Holy Qurbono and Public Meeting. The program started with reception to our Bishop and Fr. Saji. After reception, we had the morning worship followed by the solemn Holy Qurbono celebrated by Fr. Saji. A public meeting was held immediately after the Holy Qurbono. Representatives from our sister churches, our Bishop and other leaders representing the various organizations felicitated Fr. Saji on successfully completing 25 years of his service to our community. Fr. Saji thanked God Almighty and the religious community in his reply speech. As a special charity project during this event, a picture animation book (Chitra Katha) was released by His Excellency about the Life of Mar Ivanios. Fr. Saji helped with the writings and ideas behind this book publication. Lunch was provided to everyone attended and a great cultural program was conducted mainly by the members of St. Jude. Program concluded by 3:30PM. Rockland St. Peter's Syro-Malankara Catholic Church in Rockland, NY has continued to grow in faith and communal love through 27
celebration of the Holy Q'urbono, Catechism, Novenas, and Prayer. The Church celebrated Perunnal on June 25th and Rt. Rev. Msgr. Peter Kochery was the chief celebrant of Holy Mass. Vicar Rev. Fr. Augustine Mangalath, Rev. Fr. Thomas (Noby) Ayyaneth and reverend Sisters were present. We had a great cultural program by the Sunday school kids and Youth, which was followed by dinner. Father s day was celebrated and all the father s were presented with church Novelty gifts. Malayalam class students were given certificates. The Church picnic was held on July 9th, 2017 Sunday after the Morning Holy Mass at Rockland state park. Home made food items and snacks were brought for the breakfast and for lunch we had barbeque. Sports activities were conducted for all age group and everyone enjoyed the picnic. San Jose Parish Feast Celebration in memory of our patron Saint Jude Thaddeus was held on Saturday 24th of June 2017 at the St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception church in Los Gatos, CA. 28
Rev. Fr. Kuriakose Mambrakattu was the main celebrant and con-celebrated by Rev. Fr. Saju Joseph and Rev. Fr. Abraham Anthony. Rev. Fr. Biju Daniel Varghese led the choir for the service. Feast celebration started at 9:30 with Morning Prayers followed by Thirunnal Qurbana, Novena, Rasa and concluded with Nercha Distribution & Reception Vacation Bible school was held from July 8th,2017 to July 9th, 2017. Children of all ages had a wonderful experience participating in 2017 VBS program organized by the youth team leaders Soumya Mathew and Sonia Mathew under the guidance of 29
the Sunday school HM Clara M. George and many volunteers. Children learned few songs and performed for the congregation. Family picnic was held on July 22nd at the Graystone park, San Jose after the holy Qurbana at 9:30 a.m in the church. Lots of games and activities were organized under Mr. Sunny Mathew leadership. We had a barbecue lunch and prizes were distributed to all winners. Washington Pastoral Visit His Excellency Bishop Thomas Mar Eusebius visited the Syro Malankara Catholic Church of Greater Washington on July 30th and offered Holy Mass. Yard Sale MCCL and Jesus Kids together conducted a yard sale on July 15th to collect money for charity purposes. Father s Day 30
Father s day was celebrated on June 18th. All mothers brought home made meals to give lunch to the father s. MCCL and Jesus Kids Our MCCL Office bearers for the year 2017-18 with our vicar Rev. Mathai Manoorvadakkethil. MCCL Animator- Ms. Soji Papachen President - Ben Raphael (not in picture) Vice president - Susan Daniel Secretary - Shraya Vishwalingam Treasurer - Joshua Kalampanayil Farewell Fr. Mathai Manoorvadakkethil and Welcome Fr. Michael Edathil Thank you, Mathai Achen for leading us for the last six years. The Syro Malankara Catholic Church of Greater Washington wishes you all success at your new church in Texas. The Syro Malankara Catholic Church of Greater Washington 31
welcomes Fr. Michael Edathil as our new parish priest. Yonkers On June 11, 2017, under the leadership of Rev. Fr. Jerry Mathew and the MCA, the parish went on a pilgrimage to Rosa Mystica Church, Edmeston, NY. 58 members of our parish attended this blessed event including Rev. Sisters. We were blessed to have Bishop Thomas Mar Eusebius celebrate the Holy Mass on Father's Day June 18. In order to celebrate the Father's Day, the MCYM members sponsored a BBQ for the fathers. On July 2, Fr. Jerry Mathew was officially appointed as the Vicar for our Parish and the parishioners also celebrated his one -year anniversary of his ordination. On July 9th, we celebrated Fr. Michael Edathil s 4-year anniversary of his ordination. The annual picnic was held on July 8, 2017 at the Germonds Park at Rockland. It was a well-participated event and about 35 families were present at the picnic. The Picnic included BBQ and sporting events for all ages. 32
The MCA along with the MCYM youth organized the cleaning of the garage on July 9. The MCYM Getaway arranged by the MCYM-East Regional Board on July 14-16 was attended by twelve of our youth. First Fruits auctions from the parishioners' gardens started on August 13 and continues every Sunday till the end of the summer. A youth hangout was held on August 13, where the MCYM members gathered in the rectory for games and sharing food. Monsignor Joseph Kurumbileth, the former pastor of our parish and the current Vicar General of Pathanamthitta diocese, celebrated Holy Mass on August 27. The Yonkers parish Family Night was held on August 26 at the Saffron Indian Restaurant and about 110 members participated in this event, filled with a variety of programs displaying the talents of people of all ages. The subcommittee which directed and coordinated the event consisted of Mr. John Thomas, Mr. Anthony Thomas, Mrs. Sheela John and Mrs. Siby George. The church and rectory cleaning continues to be done each month by selected families. Baptisms Ethan Matthew Thomas was baptized on July 1 st 2017 s/o Thomas Mathai and Aida Thomas. Wedding Smibin Skaria and Jincy Mary Varghese was held on July 10 th, 2017 33
OTHER EPARCHIAL NEWS NEW APPOINTMENTS Rev. Fr. Mathai Mannoorvadakkethil has been appointed as the pastor of the Dallas parish, effective end of September. He has hitherto served the Washington parish for the past six years. Rev. Fr. Joseph Nedumankuzhiyil has been relieved of Eparchial ministry after serving the Eparchy in various positions for the last ten years. His last assignment was as the pastor of the Dallas parish. A sincere gratitude to the dedicated and ecclesially oriented ministry of Rev. Fr. Nedumankuzhiyil. Rev. Fr. Michael Edathil has been appointed as the pastor of Washington Parish, effective in September, and as the new director of Sunday School. Special gratitude to Fr. Saji Mukoott who has served as the director of Sunday School for the past years. Rev. Father Jerry Mathew has been appointed as the Pastor of Yonkers Church on July 2 and as the new Director of the Youth Apostolate (MCYM) in the Eparchy, both MCYMNA and of the North-East MCYM. Special gratitude to Fr. Sunny Mathew who had served those positions eminently and devotedly for the last six years. UPCOMING EVENTS October 28 - Farewell to Bishop Thomas Mar Eusebius and Installation of Bishop Philipose Mar Stephanos 34
Cathedral and Chancery Project Contributions Receipts of Contributions from Parishes other than the Cathedral Chicago 1 Ciby Mathew Daniel 1000 2 George Malayil 1000 3 Joseph John 650 4 Kunjumon Zachariah 150 5 Stanly John 1000 6 Varghese Daniel 1000 Total 4,800 Dallas 1 Ben Baby 200 2 Chacko Varkey 100 3 George Francis 250 4 Jacob John 1000 5 Joby Abraham 501 6 Mathai Yohannan 500 7 Sajan Cherian 100 Total 2,651 Detroit 1 Jacob C. Oommen 300 2 Gheevarghese and Jolly 500 Yohannan Total 800 35
Houston 1 Fernadus George 500 2 George Mannikkarott 100 3 John Daniel 250 4 Jose K. John 200 5 Varghese George 500 Total 1,550 Los Angeles 1 Elisabeth Thomas 1000 2 Raju Mannikarott 1000 Total 2,000 Miami 1 Joseph P. George 1000 Total 1,000 New Jersey 1 John George 500 2 John P. Varghese 1000 3 John Varghese 500 4 Sunil John 1000 5 Sunny Thomas 1000 6 Varghese George 2000 Total 6,000 36
Philadelphia 1 Alex John 500 2 Chacko K. Jacob 150 3 Geevarghese Chacko 700 4 John Kunnumpurath 500 5 Jolly Jacob 2500 6 Nina Chacko 500 7 Philip Thomas 1000 8 Samuel Chacko 500 9 Shine Daniel 500 10 Thomas T. Varghese 500 Total 7,350 Rockland 1 Abraham Varghese 1000 2 Mathai P. John 100 3 Sherin Joseph 1000 4 Thomas Abraham 2500 Total 4,600 Toronto 1 Rajesh Jacob 433.30 Total 433.30 37
Washington 1 Thomas T. Chandy 301 1 Devasia Karimpanal 150 2 Jacob P. Thomas 1000 3 Mathew John 150 4 Roy Sam 500 5 Sherly Abraham 250 6 Sunny Thomas 500 7 T.C. Geevarghese 250 8 Thomas Philip 250 Total 3,351 Yonkers 1 Alexander Mammen 2000 2 Ann Varghese 500 3 Antony Thomas 1000 4 Francis K. Abraham 1000 5 Geevarghese Thankachan 1000 6 Jacob George 1000 7 Jacob Mammen 2000 8 Jacob P. Andrews 1000 9 John Thomas 1000 10 John Varghese 1000 11 Johnson Varghese 2000 12 Jose Mathew 2500 13 Joseph and Julie Mammen 1000 14 Joseph Thundil 500 15 Joy K. Mathai 2000 38
16 Mathai P. Abraham 1000 17 Mathew Kazhanakkat 1000 18 Ninan Varghese 1000 19 Pappachan K. Cherian 1000 20 Philip John 2000 21 Philip K. Cherian 1000 22 Philip Mathai 1000 23 Raju Mundolil 1000 24 Simon John 5251 25 Simon Oommen 4000 26 Thomas Abraham 1000 27 Thomas John 5000 Total 43,751 Others 1 Aloysius Keralavakkayil 1000 2 Cross Island Realty 1500 3 Mathai Kutty (Colarado) 3000 4 Saramma Joseph 2000 Total 7500 TOTAL FROM PARISHES - 85,786.30 39
Reverend Fathers 1 Fr. Sunny Mathew 2500 2 Msgr. Peter Kochery 2500 3 Fr. Isaac Karoor 500 4 Fr. Augustine Mangalath 12500 5 Fr. Francis Assisi 600 6 Fr. Mathai Mannoorvadakkethil 500 7 Fr. Michael Edathil 4500 8 Fr. Joseph Nedumankuzhiyil 1000 9 Fr. John Mathew 100 10 Fr. Kuriakose Mambrakkatt 2000 11 Fr. Mathew Perumbillikunnel 500 12 Fr. George Oonnoonny 10000 13 Fr. Joseph Charivupurayidam 1000 14 Fr. Abraham Thomas 300 15 Fr. Sunu Joseph 250 16 Fr. Jacob John 1000 17 Fr. Saji Mukkoot 2000 41,750 Reverend Sisters 1 Bethany Sisters Chicago 5000 2 Bethany Sisters New York 5000 3 DM Sisters City Island 2500 4 DM Sisters Detroit 1500 5 DM Sisters Greensberg (Chanda) 500 6 DM Sisters Greensberg (Trivandrum) 3000 7 DM Sisters Los Angeles 2000 8 DM Sisters Yonkers 6000 Total 25,500 GRAND TOTAL - 153,036.30 40
41 Happy Reunion Day