St. Thomas Syro-Malabar Diocese: December 2012 Bulletin

Diocesan Bulletin - December 2012

“Today in the city of David a savior has been born for you
who is Messiah and Lord. And this will be a sign for you: you will find
an infant wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger” (Lk. 2:11-12).

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!!
May the Joy of Christmas
fill your hearts this season and through 2013

St. Thomas Syro-Malabar
Catholic Diocese of Chicago

My Lord and My God
Diocesan Bulletin - December 2012

About the Cover Page:
The ongoing process of the Incarna-
tion of the Son of God is continued in the
Church by the power of the Holy Spirit,
especially at the time of the celebration of
Holy Qurbana so that His birth becomes
a reality in our life. The Holy Spirit who
dwelt in Blessed Mary at the time of
Incarnation, comes down from heaven at
the celebration of Holy Qurbana to make
the gifts of bread and wine the real body
and blood of Jesus Christ. The same Spirit
dwells in the faithful so that we may
deepen our faith in the Lord and in His
Church and continue the spiritual journey
December 2012, Vol. 7, No. 3

to heaven.

The Meaning of the Logo
of the Year of Faith
Published by :

The Church, the boat, is sailing with the
power of the Cross against the waves of the
Fr. Sebastian Vethanath, Chancellor,
world to heaven. In her journey to heaven,
St. Thomas Syro-Malabar Catholic Diocese of Chicago
the most Holy Qurbana is the power house
of enlightening nourishment. The letters
372 S. Prairie Avenue, Elmhurst, IL 60126-4020
IHS is the short form of the phrase ‘Jesus
Ph: 630-279-1386, 630-279-1383 Fax: 630-279-1479
Hominum Salvator’ (Jesus is the Saviour of
‘Jesus
email: chancellor@syromail.com
humankind). www.stthomasdiocese.org

CONTENT
Pastoral Letter No. 14/2012-Encountering the Presence
of the Lord through growing in the Gift of Faith 5
Pastoral Letter No. 14/2012 (Malayalam)-
ssZh-km-¶n-²ym-p-`hw hnizm-k-h-fÀ¨-bn-eqsS 10
Circular No. 4/2012-The Year of Faith 16
Pastoral Recommendations for the Year of Faith at the Parish /Mission Level 17
Pastoral Recommendations for the Year of Faith at the Diocesan Level 18
Circular No. 5/2012-Guidelines for the Celebration of Holy Qurbana
in St. Thomas Syro-Malabar Catholic Diocese of Chicago 19
News from Chancery 24
The Mode of remembering Major Archbishop, Bishops, Consecrated
Persons and lay Missionaries in the Syro-Malabar Qurbana 26
Priests’ Conference-2012 Report 27
Encountering the Risen Lord through the Celebration of Holy Qurbana 30
Liturgy of the Word and of the Bread :
Two Fundamental Parts of Holy Qurbana 31
Basic Structure of Syro-Malabar Qurbana 34
Vatican Council’s Teachings on active Participation
in the Celebration of Holy Qurbana 38
Liturgical Year : A Golden Key to the Door of Faith 39
Seasons of Annunciation-Nativity 40
Season of Epiphany 41
Diocesan Youth Apostolate (DYA) 42
Diocesan Youth Leaders Gathering (DYLG) 43
West Cost Youth Conference (WCYC) 2013 44
4 Life : Pro-Life Ministry 45
World Youth Day 2013 (WYD) 47
News at a Glance 49
Bishop’s Diary 53
Vision and Mission of St. Thomas Syro-Malabar Catholic Diocese of Chicago
in the Light of II Vatican Council’s Decree Orientalium Ecclesiarum 57
II Vatican Council (1962-1965) at a Glance 59

Prayerful Greetings

Cardinal Mar Baselios Cleemis Bava
Major Archbishop of Syro-Malankara Church

Mar George Rajendran Mar Jacob Muricken
Bishop of Thuckalay Diocese Auxilary Bishop of Palai Diocese

Participants of Priests’ Conference-2012

No. 14/2012
Pastoral Letter

By the grace of God, Mar Jacob
Angadiath, the Bishop of St. Thomas
Syro-Malabar Catholic Diocese of Chi-
cago and Permanent Apostolic Visita-
tor to Canada, send this greeting and
message to all the priests, men and
women religious, and beloved people
of God, living in USA and Canada.

R
“Glory to God in the highest”, Amen.

Dear and Loving Brothers and Sisters in Jesus Christ,

emembering the Good News of the birth of Jesus Christ, we have already
entered in to the liturgical year. In different seasons of the liturgical year of
the Syro-Malabar Church the faithful are invited to meditate upon the various
facets of Christ’s salvific mysteries starting from his birth to the second coming.
Through the proper observance of the liturgical seasons the faithful are benefit-
ted to experience the fruits of salvation in their personal life.

Encountering the
Presence of the Lord
through growing in the
Gift of Faith


The liturgical seasons of Mangalavaartha
and Piravikaalam invite us to prepare our-
selves to welcome the Lord who was born of
Blessed Virgin Mary by the power of the Holy
Spirit. It is a time of hope and joy. Christ, the
Saviour, comes in search of His people. His
coming is the good news to the world. That
is why we hear the Gloria, the song of the an-
gels: “Glory to God in the highest and peace
on earth to those on whom His favor rests”
Too much concern
(Lk 2:14). Renewing and deepening our faith
about world and its in the Lord, let us prepare ourselves to cel-
affairs will certainly ebrate Christmas during this Year of Faith.
turn our life away from
God. Another danger of The Year of Faith, inaugurated by Pope
deviation from the path Benedict XVI on October 11th, 2012 aims
of truth occurs when at encountering the presence of the Lord in
appears wrong per- our daily life. The life of innocent shepherds
sonalities who spread (Lk 2:8-20) teaches that only those who are
misleading and nega- pure and humble in heart can have this en-
tive news and ideas in counter with the Lord. The gift of faith, a per-
the community against sonal adherence of man to God (CCC 150), is
the Church and her au- of vital importance in this encountering. Faith
thorities. Here we have is the adequate human response to the self-
to be more vigilant and revealing God (CCC 142). Like the innocent
alert, because the sa- shepherds we have to respond to the revela-
tanic power is always tion of God through our genuine faith.
around us in the form
of deviated persons In his apostolic letter, The Door of Faith,
to make us turn away the Pope emphasizes the importance of faith
from the true Church. in our journey to God. If we are not properly
guided by the true faith of the Church, there
is always possibility for deviation from the
true path that leads to divine presence. Such
a deviation occurred in the life of Wise Men
from the East (Mt 2: 1-12) who knowingly or

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unknowingly entered King Herod’s palace in search of Infant Jesus. Certainly it
was a wrong step, because one cannot find God’s presence in the luxuries and
pleasures of material life, simbolized by King Herod’s palace. Too much concern
about world and its affairs will certainly turn our life away from God. Another
danger of deviation from the path of truth occurs when appears wrong person-
alities who spread misleading and negative news and ideas in the community
against the Church and her authorities. Here we have to be more vigilant and
alert, because the satanic power is always around us in the form of deviated
persons to make us turn away from the true Church.

The Wise men had the courage and prudence to come out of the wrong
place. It helped them to find the Infant Jesus with Mary in the crib at Bethlehem.
Here, according to the Church Fathers, Blessed Mary stands as the symbol of
the Church. Just as Blessed Mary, the first Tabernacle, bore the Son of God in
her womb, the Church, the New Ark of the Covenant (Ex. 25:10-30) helps the
faithful to experience the presenece of God in the world. The Church is the inn
(Lk 20:34) where the faithful can experience the presence of the Lord through
the divine gifts of the Word of God and of the Eucharistic Bread. That is why Pope
Benedict XVI encourages every faithful: “We must rediscover a taste for feeding
ourselves on the Word of God, faithfully handed down by the Church, and on
the Bread of Life, offered as sustenance for His people (Jn 6:51, The Door of
Faith no. 3).
Encounter with the Lord is to be experienced through the active participa-
tion in the celebration of the Holy Qurbana. Therefore I request all the faithful to
give sufficient attention to this. Sometimes, because of tight work schedule, the
faithful may fail to participate in the celebration of Holy Eucharist on Sundays
and other days of obligation. This failure has to be rectified by attending Holy
Qurbana on another day of the week. It will be good to remember that late night
Saturday parties will affect the attendance of CCD and Holy Qurbana on Sundays.
Please take care of not conducting any kind of late night parties on Saturday.
In this Year of Faith we have to nourish the gift of faith with Word of God,
strengthen it through genuine life based on prayer (Mk 9: 24) and sacraments,
and make it fruitful through the works of charity (Gal 5: 6). St. James teaches
us: “faith of itself, if it does not have works, is dead (James 2: 17). One can grow
in faith only through believing. We have to believe with certitude what is re-

7


vealed in the Word of God, Creed and Church teachings.
Teachings of the Fathers of the Church, Council decrees
of Vatican II and the Catechism of the Catholic Church are
shining lights to guide us to God, the Father.
Our faith has to be rooted in the faith of the Church
Just as Blessed (CCC 162). It is the Church that believes first, and so bears,
Mary, the first nourishes and sustains our faith. It is with the Church and
Tabernacle, bore in the Church that we confess: “I believe” or “we believe”
the Son of God (CCC 168). When rightly guided by the faith of the Church,
in her womb, the we can certainly reach the shore of divine realm.
Church, the New Though faith is a personal act, it is not an isolated one.
Ark of the The believer has received faith from others and should
Covenant hand it on to others, by professing, celebrating and wit-
nessing it publically. The words of St. Augustine are
(Ex. 25:10-30) noteworthy here: “The faith of the Church that you have
helps the faithful received and recited must be kept ever present in your
to experience the minds and hearts, you must repeat it in your beds, recall it
presenece of God in the public squares and not forget it during meals; even
in the world. The when your body is asleep, you must watch over it with
your hearts”.
Church is the inn
(Lk 20:34) where Family is the primary school of faith. Praying parents
the faithful can are the first teachers of faith. The first lesson of faith is
learned at home. The family prayer, the love shared at
experience the home, the respect and regard for holy things and holy
presence of the people are experienced at home. Therefore, I exhort you
Lord through the all to sustain a prayerful atmosphere at your home con-
divine gifts of the ducive to the growth of faith.
Word of God The parish community becomes the second nurturing
and of the Eucha- center of faith, after the family. Active participation in the
ristic Bread. liturgical celebrations, faith formation, Bible study, ward
prayer, celebration of sacraments, especially of Holy Eu-
charist and Reconciliation (Confession), involvement in
the Church organizations and generous support to the
Church are some of the means through which we live and
practice our faith. I urge Rev. Fathers and the faithful to

8

give sufficient attention to select themes, connected with the faith of the Church,
for the various programs related with parish feasts, celebrations of Christmas,
Easter, anniversary etc. It will certainly provide an opportunity to know and
deepen our faith in the Lord.
The door of faith is opened to us all. In the history of the Church we see
multitudes of saints who followed the footsteps of the Lord, entering the door
of faith. Martyrs shed their blood for the faith in the Lord and became true wit-
nesses of the Lord. In this Year of Faith we should give special attention to read
the life of saints and to imitate their model of witnessing the faith in God. In a
special way, we have to imitate the life of Blessed Mary, the model of faith, by
reciting meditatively the mysteries of the holy rosary.
Renewal of the Church is possible only through the witnessing offered by the
lives of believers. By their very existence in the world, Christians are called to ra-
diate the word of truth that the Lord has left us. This life witnessing to the Lord
demands from us an authentic and renewed conversion to the Lord through the
forgiveness of sins (cf. Acts 5:31). So, in this Year of Faith, I urge all the faithful
to receive the sacrament of Reconciliation (Confession) more frequently with
genuine spirit of repentance and conversion.
Having encountered the Infant Jesus and offered their life before Him, the
Wise men from the East returned to their country by another road (Mt 2: 12).
Let their life be a model to us. The observance of the Year of Faith and the cele-
bration of Christmas may help us to encounter Jesus and to re-dedicate our lives
to Him through constant acts of repentance and conversion, opening a new way
and direction towards God and fellow beings.
Wish you all a Merry Christmas and Blessed New Year! May the grace of
Infant Jesus be with you all in the New Year!

Bishop of St. Thomas Syro-Malabar Catholic Diocese of Chicago
Mar Jacob Angadiath

NB: This pastoral letter is to be read in all our parishes and missions during all
Holy Qurbana on December 16, 2012.

9


12


14

amÀ tP¡_v A§m-Sn-b¯v
jn¡m-tKm, skâv tXmakv kntdm-þ-a-e-_mÀ cq]-X-bpsS sa{Xm³ Unkw-_À 8, 2012

NB:

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No. 4 / 2012
Circular

T
Dear and loving Fathers, Reverend Sisters and be-

loved Brothers and Sisters in the Lord,
he ‘Year of Faith’ announced by the Holy
Father, Pope Benedict XVI, is at hand. Serious
discussions were made on the observance of this
Year of Faith, in the Pastoral Council and Priests’
Conference. The practical suggestions are codi-
fied and are attached herewith. Let the inauguration of this Year of Faith be done
at our Cathedral and other Parishes and Missions on Sunday October 14, 2012
with some special events.

1. Prayer life: personal prayer, family prayer and liturgical prayer.
Special emphasis is given to:

2. Study: the Holy Bible, II Vatican Council Documents, Catechism of
the Catholic Church and the Apostolic letter ‘The Door of Faith’.
3. Witness: follow the experience of modern Saints and thus witness
to our faith.
Let the priests remind the faithful frequently regarding the observance of
the Year of Faith. Let us open our hearts to welcome the Lord. Being rooted in
Jesus, let us proclaim Him as the Lord.
May the Lord bless us.
Yours sincerely in the Lord,

September 27, 2012
Feast of St. Vincent de Paul

Mar Jacob Angadiath

16

The observance of the Year
of Faith is an occasion to ex-
perience and give witness
to Catholic faith. For this,
knowledge of faith is of vital
importance. The following
are the recommendations of
the Priests’ Conference-2012
to realize the vision and mis-
sion of the Year of Faith at the
parish/mission level.

• Parish and Mission level inauguration of the Year of Faith shall be on Octo-
ber 14th 2012 by lighting the lamp and professing the Creed. Pastors/Direc-
tors will encourage the faithful to profess, more consciously, the Creed every
day at home during family prayer before the lighted lamp.
• Arrange classes for children, teens, youth, couples and parents on Holy Qur-
bana, Sacraments, Bible, Mariology, Life of Saints etc. Teach them the Coun-
cil Doctrines of Vat II, Catechism of the Catholic Church and Apostolic letter
‘the Door of Faith’.
• Encourage people to make use of the Catholic version of the Bible, study
guides pertain to the Scriptures, Bible with question-answers etc.
• Explain to the faithful the ‘why’ of being a Catholic. The ‘why’ and ‘what’
aspects of the Holy Qurbana are to be explained to the faithful, especially to
the catechism students and youth.
• Genuine formation shall be given to the faithful to have active participation
in the sacraments of Eucharist, Penance and Anointing of the Sick so that
they can have deep personal encounter with God and renewal in life.
• Promote personal, family and ward prayers as a means of deepening and
transferring the gift of faith to the generations.
• Renewal of families shall be of vital importance through prayer, sacramental
life and other forms of the celebration of faith.
• Encourage and teach the faithful to be witnesses and promoters of faith at
home, parish, school, colleges and work zone so that more people may be
attracted to the Church.

17


• Encourage and make use of videos, slides, skit, dance, stage program, quiz
and essay competitions based on the great content of faith.
• Make use of web, TV and Radio to ‘stay connected’ in the faith formation of
the members of family, parish, mission and diocese.
• The concept of having a prayer room in a home has to be encouraged.

• Regional and parish level inauguration and conclusion of the Year of Faith.
• Provide a team of experts on regional and diocesan levels to teach on the
Decrees of the Council of Vat II and CCC according to the demand from the
parishes and missions.
• Organize study (class 1/2days) on the diocesan and regional levels on CCC
and Decrees of Vat II for priests and catechists.
• Make available knowledge about the documents of Vat II, CCC and Holy Qur-
bana through diocesan bulletin and prepared homilies.
• Make available the copies of the new publication of the decrees of Vat II
(summarized form).
• Formulate the diocesan directives for the celebration of liturgy.
• Edit the catechism text books, prepared by the Synodal Commission on Cat-
echism of Syro-Malabar Church.
• Prepare power point presentation on Holy Qurbana.
• Include in the diocesan directives the need of orientation classes for the
parents and god parents of the children to be baptized.
• Form a social service agency to coordinate the acts of charity in the diocesan
level. Under the guidance of the same agency, out reaching program, can be
organized for various groups.
• Prepare a leaflet explaining the ‘why’ and ‘what’ aspects of Holy Qurbana
and make available its copies to the use of the people.
• Prepare a leaflet answering the questions and doubts of the faithful regard-
ing faith.

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No. 5 / 2012
Guidelines for the Circular

Celebration of
Holy Qurbana
in St. Thomas Syro-Malabar

Dear and Rev. Fathers, men and women religious
and my dear beloved people of God, living in USA and Canada,

T he identity of any in-
dividual Church is pri-
marily expressed through
the celebration of its liturgy,
especially of Holy Qurbana
and other Sacraments. The
following guidelines are
given, with the intention of
having uniformity, in the
celebration of Holy Qurba-
na in various parishes and
missions of our diocese.
Though certain options are
strictly celebrant’s choice,
for the sake of uniformity
in our diocese, I request
all concerned to follow the
instructions.


1. Celebration of Holy Qurbana facing the
people or facing madbaha?
With regard to this question we follow the decision of the Synod of
St. Thomas Syro-Malabar Major Archiepiscopal Church. To quote from decision
of the Synod: “Finally the Synod unanimously agreed to have the Syro-Mala-
bar Litrugy celebrated in the following way : 1) From the beginning till ana-
phora - facing the people, 2) The whole of anaphora, communion inclusive -

(Synodal News, December 1999, page 61).
facing the altar and 3) The part after communion - again facing the people”

Following the decision of the Synod
• The celebrant faces the congregation in the bema starting from annapesaha
thirunnalil to the profession of faith.
• Thereafter the celebrant enters and faces madbaha till the time of the prayer
after Holy Communion (Christ, our Lord, hope of mankind!).
• Concluding prayers and final blessing are done at bema facing the people.

2. Position of the faithful during
the celebration of Holy Qurbana
• Standing: This is the normal posture for all during Holy Qurbana. Excep-
tions are:
• Sitting: During the time of readings from Old Testaments and epistle,
Homily, offertory time till the profession of faith, the time of
Holy Communion
• Kneeling: The rite of reconciliation (Have mercy on me, O God… till ‘Our
Father’ before Holy Communion)

• The new Qurbana text, having English and Malayalam translation in the same
3. Qurbana texts

book, printed especially for our diocese are to be introduced and used in all
our parishes and missions.

20

• The second part with “Glory be to …” is to be added at the end of the first li-
turgical “Our Father”, since it is missing in the first edition of newly printed
Qurbana text.
• Pastors should take care to make use of propria, included in the new Qur-
bana text, in order that the congregation may have right experience of the
spirit of different liturgical seasons.

• Directions given in the Taksa, the source book for the celebration of Holy
4. Directions for the celebration of Holy Qurbana

Qurbana of Syro-Malabar Church, are to be followed strictly. In accordance
with that Qurbana begins with annapesaha thirunnalil.
• During the time of sarvathipanam karthaave the celebrant turns to face the
altar and then together with the congregation makes a deep bowing.
• On Sundays and other days of solemn Qurbana incensing is to be used.
• On Sundays and other days of solemn Qurbana there should be four (three)
readings from the Holy Bible. Follow the order of the liturgical calendar of
our Church in the selection of the readings. After the Old Testament read-
ing (s), the celebrant stands for the hymn ambaramanavaratham followed
by the prayer before the reading from epistle. During the time of the read-
ing from the epistle, one server will hold a lighted candle by the side of the
reader.
• The Holy Gospel is brought in procession from the altar when the gospel
hymn is sung. For the Gospel procession, incensing and two lighted candles
are used. There is no incensing of the Gospel by the celebrant. After the
reading, Gospel is placed at the right side of the altar.
• Let the people make sign of the cross on themselves as the celebrant blesses
the congregation with peace, before Gospel proclamation, before anaphora
and before Holy Communion.
• There is no offertory procession from the part of faithful.
• Preparation of the gifts of bread and wine are done on bethgaze during the
time of karosuza.

21
65


• After the preparation of the gifts the celebrant comes down to the bema to
make the concluding prayers of the rite of the Word of God including the
two prayers of blessing.
• The celebrant brings the gifts of bread and wine in procession to the al-
tar during the time of the hymn, mishihakarthaavin thirumeyyninavumitha
remembering Christ’s journey to Golgotha. Offertory collection will be tak-
en at this time while congregation is seated.
• After the offertory, the celebrant comes down again to bema to recite
dhivyarahasyageetham 2, followed by the profession of the Creed: for this
all stand.
• After the profession of the Creed, the celebrant makes the solemn entrance
to the altar for the celebration of anaphora.
• Regarding the exchange of peace, a sign of reconciliation among the faithful,
the servers receive the exchange of peace from the celebrant and give it to
the congregation.
• After the words of consecration together with the celebrant the whole con-
gregation makes a deep bowing.
• For the prayer of epiclesis – invocation of the Holy Spirit – the whole
congregation bow their heads.
• Holy Communion on tongue is ideal. If it is received in hands make sure that
it is done with proper devotion and consumed there itself. Pastors have to
teach the faithful how to receive the communion in the hand and how to
consume it.
• The prayer ‘the altar of sanctification’ is priestly prayer in silence.

• The prayers before and after sarvaathipanam karthaave
5. Prayers shared by the concelebrants

• The prayer after paripavananam sarvesha
• Prayer before the reading from epistle
• Intercessory prayer (madhyastha prarthana)
• Thanksgiving prayers before the final blessing
• It is not permitted to share the prayers of anaphora by concelebrants.
• The celebrant is not allowed to add their own private prayers and hymns
during the celebration of Holy Qurbana.

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6. Choir and selection of Hymns in the

The primary duty of the choir is to help the congregation to participate in the
Celebration of Holy Qurbana

Holy Qurbana in a fruitful and experiential manner. In the celebration of Holy
Qurbana the choir does the ministry of angels. The hymns given in the liturgi-
cal texts (Qurbana Taksa) are composed according to the biblical revelations.
They are fixed in the liturgical texts in order to keep the spirit of Holy Qurbana
which is structured after biblical revelations. These hymns are to be sung with
due devotion. Optional hymns are given in the appendix of the Taksa. No other
substitute is to be used in the celebration of Holy Qurbana. The choir is free to
select entrance song and Holy Communion song. Let Rev. Pastors make it sure
that the performance of choir is well suited to keep the spirit of liturgy.

Let all our priests and people understand the importance of sacred
liturgy and so follow all the above mentioned directives faithfully. Priests
are advised to give timely teachings to our people on liturgical prayers,
gestures and symbols. Let the observance of the Year of Faith help us to
deepen our faith in the Lord and to encounter his presence in our life
through the proper celebration of Holy Qurbana.

NB: The official text, prepared by the Synod of St. Thomas Syro-Malabar
Major Archiepiscopal Church, are to be used in the celebration of other
sacraments (Baptism, Confirmation, Marriage and Annointing of the Sick)
and in the rites of Christmas and Holy Week.

Yours sincerely in the Lord,

Mar Jacob Angadiath

23


Transfers and News from
Appointments of Priests C hanc e ry

Rev. Fr. John Thomas (Thachara) & Rev. Fr. Thomas Kadukappillil,

with effect from October 18, 2012
Diocesan General Coordinators for the Year of Faith

Rev. Fr. John Thomas (Thachara),

Pastor, St. Alphonsa Syro-Malabar Catholic Church, Coppel, TX

Rev. Fr. Abraham Vettiyolil MCBS,

with effect from November 01, 2012
Director, Bl. Kunjachan Syro-Malabar Catholic Mission, Staten Island, NY

Rev. Fr. Jose Manickathan CFIC,

Director, St. Mary Syro-Malabar Catholic Mission, Columbus, OH

Rev. Fr. Paul Chalissery,

Pastor, Lourd Matha Syro-Malabar Catholic Church, Raleigh/Durham, NC

Rev. Fr. Joseph Tharackal,

Pastor, St. Stephen Syro-Malabar Knanaya Catholic Church, Hempstead, NY

Rev. Fr. Mathew Elayadathamadam MSFS,

with effect from December 16, 2012
Pastor, St. Alphonsa Syro-Malabar Catholic Church, Atlanta, GA

Canada Mission

Rev. Fr. Varghese Munduvelil CFIC,

Director, St. Alphonsa Syro-Malabar Mission, Edmonton, Canada

Rev. Fr. Mathew Periappuram,

Pastor, St. Thomas Syro-Malabar Mission Parish, Toronto, Canada

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Formation of New Parish Council
As the decision of the last two presbyterium meetings the new parish
council is to be formed and established in the month of January 2013
for two years in all parishes and missions of our diocese. The selection
of the new representatives shall be done in compliance with the revised
procedure rules of our diocese.

Annual Financial Statement (Therattu)
and Assessment
All parishes and missions of the diocese are requested to submit their
annual financial statement and 10% of the total income of the preced-
ing accounting year to the diocesan fund as annual assessment before
February 28, 2013.

Diocesan Appeal - 2012
Diocesan Appeal - 2012 is in progress. Thanks to all those who have con-
tributed. Those who haven’t contributed so far, please do it at the earli-
est. Your generosity is greatly appreciated.

Registry for Visiting Priests
As per the decision of Priests’ Conference-2012 the name and details of
the priests who come from outside of our diocese for the celebration of
sacraments are to be recorded and kept in a book. Rev. Fr. Pastors are
requested to do the needful for the same in their respective parishes and
missions.

Pastoral Council Member
Mr. Jose Valiyaparampil is the diocesan pastoral council member from
St. Mary’s Syro-Malabar Knanaya Catholic Church, San Jose, CA.

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The Mode of remembering Major Archbishop, Bishops, Consecrated
Persons and lay Missionaries in the Syro-Malabar Qurbana
As per the decision of XX Synod, (August 2012) of Syro-Malabar Major
Archiepiscopal Church, the mode of remembering Major Archbishop, Bishops,
Consecrated Persons and lay missionaries in our diocese during Holy Qurbana
is as follows.
Celebrant : For the Supreme Pontiff Pope …., the ruler and head of the universal
Church, for the Major Archbishop Mar …, the father and head of our
Church, for our bishop Mar…., the father and head of the diocese, for all
bishops, priests, consecrated persons, lay missionaries, for the entire holy
Catholic Church, and for the rulers and all those who are in authority, for
the honour and glory of all the prophets….

ImÀ½n-I³ :

26

T he Priests’ Conference 2012 was held at Techny Towers Conference Center,
Chicago, September17-20, 2012. His Excellency Mar Jacob Angadiath, Rev.
Dr. Antony Narikulam, Rector, St. Joseph’s Pontifical Seminary, Mangalapuzha,
Alwaye and 48 priests working in the diocese participated in the conference.
The main topic of the discussion of the conference was the Year of Faith.

In the inaugural address His Excellency emphasized that the priests’ confer-
First day: September 17th Monday Evening

ence is an occasion for Rev. Fathers to be enriched in the spirit of love, commu-
nion and sharing. He exhorted the priests to meditate upon the motto of their
priestly vocation (Mk 3: 13-15) and to make an examination about their interest
and dedication in the celebration of Holy Qurbana and in the salvation of souls.
Finding satisfaction and happiness in their vocation, the priests should help and
encourage others to discern a vocation to priesthood, religious and family life.
The celebration of the Year of Faith should be an occasion to be real mission-
aries of the Lord. The catechetical formation of the children, youth and adults
are of vital importance. Catechists should be well oriented in their responsibili-
ties. Active participation in the Holy Qurbana and deepening of faith in the doc-
trines of the Church, expressed in II Vat Council Decrees and Catechism of the
Catholic Church should encourage and enrich the faithful to be more active in
their ecclesial life.
27


His Excellency expressed his gratitude for the service of Rev. Fathers, James
Cherickal, Abby Vadakkekara, James Ponganayil, Joseph Elamparayil OCD, Prince
Kuruvila, Joseph Arackal VC and Davis Chirayath to the faithful of the diocese. He
welcomed Rev. Fathers, Sebastian Vethanath, Paul Chalisserry, Tijo Mullakara,
George Kuppayil, Renny Abraham Kattel and Benoy Naramangalathil who have
joined the diocese for ministry. The new priests shared their experiences.

Rev. Dr. Antony Narikulam made the input session on the Year of faith. After
Second day: September 18th Tuesday

enumerating the sum and substance of the apostolic letter ‘The Door of Faith’, he
proposed some practical suggestions that can be practiced in the Year of Faith
such as active participation in the Holy Qurbana, study of II Vat. Council decrees
and Catechism of the Catholic Church, introducing the life of saints and witness-
ing faith through acts of charity.
In the afternoon session some of the liturgical concerns of the audience were
cleared. We are too much preoccupied with the ‘how’ of Holy Qurbana, not ‘why’
of it. Explanation of the ‘why’ aspect of Holy Qurbana has to be emphasized in
the Year of Faith.
Discussion on the planning of the Year of Faith was organized into five groups.
Rev. Fathers, Johnykutty George (Puleessery), Mudakodil Siju Kuriakose, Zacha-
rias Thottuvelil, Tijo Mullakara and Paul Chalissery presented the summary of
the different groups. His Excellency announced his idea of forming a committee
to look after the implementation of the planning for the Year of Faith. Rev. Fr.
Sebastian Vethanath, the Chancellor, was entrusted with the task of formulating
all the suggestions presented by Rev. Fathers, to be implemented in the diocese
and parish levels during the Year of Faith.
The evening session was open for questions and clarifications. Important
among them are the following.
• Rev. Fathers expressed their concerns and questions regarding the celebra-
tion of the marriage, especially the interference of some priests who are not
serving in our diocese.
• The need of centralized catechetical syllabus and question papers for CCD
and diocesan guidelines for the pious association were raised.
• Diocesan and parish level control is necessary on the retreat preachers who
come for preaching in the parishes and missions of the diocese.

28

The morning session was on Safe Environment. Rev. Sr. Marcella Nowakows-
Third day: September 19th Wednesday

ki SSJTOSF, the office secretary, explained the formalities to be accomplished
by each parish and mission on Safe Environment. It was followed by Rev. Dr.
Mathew Manakatt’s orientation talk on faith formation. He emphasized that faith
formation should lead one to the transformation of life, helping them to form a
Christian conscience. It should help them to be led to the depth of the fullness of
truth. Rev. Fr. Antony Thundathil, Protosyncellus, explained the program of the
faith formation, plan of the editing of the syro-malabar catechetical text books,
ongoing formation of CCD teachers etc.
In the afternoon session, Mr. Andrews Thomas Parampath presented finan-
cial and legal issues. All priests working in the diocese are requested to keep the
diocesan guidelines to maintain a clear accountability of personal, parochial and
diocesan financial affairs.
In the evening session the focus of attention was on youth apostolate
and their faith formation. Bro. Kevin Mundackal, Bro. Rajeev Valiyaparampil,
Abin Kuruvila and Rev. Fr. Vinod Madathiparambil summarized the apostolate
of youth formation.

The prime attention of the day was the concluding remarks by His Excel-
Fourth day: 20th Thursday

lency Mar Jacob Angadiath. Important remarks are the following.
• October 14th: Inauguration of the Year of Faith
• Make use of the book The Church of St. Thomas Christians down the centu-
ries as supplementary texts for catechism.
• Formation of the parish council has to be conducted according to the re-
vised procedure rules of the diocese.
• There should be uniformity in the celebration of Holy Qurbana
in the diocese.
• Annual assessment and appeal to the diocese are to be duly fulfilled.
• The name and details of the priests who come for celebration in the par-
ishes and missions are to be recorded and kept in a book.

29

T he Year of Faith aims at faithful’s encounter with the Risen Lord which gives
life a new horizon and decisive direction (The Door of Faith, no. 2). This en-
countering with the Risen Lord is to be experienced mainly through the active
participation in the celebration of Holy Qurbana.
His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI exhorts: “We have to intensify the celebra-
tion of the faith in the liturgy, especially in the Eucharist, the summit towards
which the activity of the Church is directed; and also the source from which all
its power flows” (The Door of Faith, no. 9).
Pope continues to encourage every faithful: “We must rediscover a taste for
feeding ourselves on the Word of God, faithfully handed down by the Church,
and on the bread of life, offered as sustenance for his people” (cf. Jn 6:51) (The
Door of Faith, no. 3).
An experiential knowledge and active participation in the Holy Qurbana is
essential for this encountering with the Risen Lord.

30

Liturgy of the Word and of the Bread :
Two Fundamental Parts of

H
Holy Qurbana

oly Qurbana is a combination of two tables: table of the WORD and table of
the BREAD, having strong biblical references. Divine Bread and Word of God
have prefiguration in the Tree of Life and the Tree of Knowledge of Good and
Evil, referred in the Garden of Eden (Gen 2:9). In the Book of Exodus, God wants
Moses to place two things as signs of His presence in the Ark of the Covenant
(Ex 25: 21;30).
1) God’s Testimony of Covenant with His people. Ex 25:21 records: “In the
ark itself you are to put the commandments which I will give you”. It is
nothing but the prefiguration of the Word of God.
2) The Bread of Divine Presence. Ex 25:30 says: “On the table you shall
always keep the bread of the divine presence”.
Jewish religious life was a response to these basic elements of divine pres-
ence, i.e., the covenant (word of God) and the bread of divine presence. The in-
stitutions of Synagogue and the Temple at Jerusalem stand for the proclamation
of the Word and breaking of the Bread, respectively.

31


Syro-Malabar Church inherits the spiritual and religious continuity of Jewish
tradition, practiced by our Lord Jesus Christ and his apostles. In the Syro-Mala-
bar church construction the presence of Bema and Madbaha follows the model
of Jewish Synagogue and the Temple respectively. Bema is the place reserved for
the proclamation of the Word of God and Madbaha is set apart for the breaking
the Bread.
Jesus Christ is the true expression of the divine presence among us (Emman-
uel) through the symbols of Word and Bread. His earthly ministry was mainly
centered in Galilee and Jerusalem. Jesus’ Galilean ministry (= the proclama-
tion of the Word) was meant for the understanding of His Jerusalem ministry
(= becoming the Bread of Life). In other words, Jesus’ Galilean ministry was
directed to His Jerusalem ministry.

The table of the proclamation of the Word and that of breaking of the Bread
Holy Qurbana : A Combination of Two Tables

are fundamental parts of holy Qurbana of any tradition after the model of Jesus’
Galilean and Jerusalem ministries. These two tables are just like two sides of one
coin. They are inseparable and are complementary to each other. These are two
fundamental parts of Jesus’ life. As St. John the Evangelist teaches us the invis-
ible Word of God put on flesh, so that He might become the Bread of life (Jn 6). “I
came that they may have life, and have it abundantly” (Jn 10:10). This proclama-
tion of Jesus finds its full realization in his words: “I am the bread of eternal life”.
Bread is the symbol of life. Being the eternal bread of the world, Jesus became
the source of life for all. He was born in Bethlehem, the land of bread, so that he
might become the bread of whole world. The true meaning and depth of Eucha-
ristic bread can be understood only in the light of the teachings of Word of God,
revealed in the Old and New Testaments.
The Word of God ministry is meant for the understanding of the Bread of
Life. The table of the Word should be directed to the table of the Bread. This is
the lesson taught and revealed in the God experience of the disciples who went
to Emmaus (Lk 24:13-34). The Word of God ministry, if not leading to the Eucha-
ristic Bread, may direct one to the line of protestant theology.
Many of Jesus’ followers, who could not understand his teaching on the liv-
ing bread, left the group of disciples (Jn 6:66). This is true with the case of many
in the world around us. Many group of people preach and do some sort of mira-
cles in the name of Jesus, but they deviate their faithful from the true faith in the

32

Eucharistic bread. Of course, these people are not following Jesus according to
the true revelations of the Bible. Jesus’ words of warning in Mt 7:22-23 clearly
express the fate of those who do not believe in the Eucharistic presence of the
Lord.
The Word of God ministry, not directed to the mystery of the Holy Eucharist,
is something misleading from the right paths of biblical revelations. It may devi-
ate people from faith in the Eucharistic Lord. The only solution to get rid of this
great danger is to give ample importance to the Word of God ministry of the Holy
Qurbana. The four readings of the Holy Qurbana have to be rightly interpreted
and directed to a deeper spiritual enlightment so that the faithful may have all
the possibilities of recognizing the Eucharistic Lord as in the case of disciples
who went to Emmaus.

Continuation of the Divine Presence through

In the Catholic Church, the continuation of Jesus and his disciples, the faith-
Word and Bread in the Catholic Church

ful can have real experience of the divine presence through the Word of God and
Eucharistic Bread. Jesus, the Good Samaritan, has blessed the inn (the Church)
with two great denara, the Word of God and the Eucharistic bread (Lk 10:25-37).
Through these precious gifts, the wounded human being can have the experience
of healing. Jesus Christ, the Medicine of Life and the chief Physician, continues
his healing ministry in the inn, i.e., Church, through the life giving sacraments.

The faithful should love the Church in order to recognize the power of the
Conclusion

divine presence through the gifts of Word and Bread, clearly revealed in the Old
and New Testaments. The life of St. Newman, who denied all the high ranks of
Anglican Church and embraced the Catholic Church in order to experience the
Eucharistic presence of the Lord, inspires and enlightens each and every mem-
ber of the Catholic Church. Every member of the Church should actively partici-
pate in the holy Qurbana in order to get in to its deeper meaning. The ignorance
of Holy Qurbana is the ignorance of Jesus Christ. Let us pray to the Eucharistic
Jesus, “Oh, Lord, increase my faith in the most life giving bread and help me to
lead a life centered on this Blessed Sacrament”.

33

Basic Structure of
Syro-Malabar Qurbana

S
Modeled after Lord’s Prayer
yro-Malabar Qurbana is structured after
the model of Lord’s Prayer. There are three
parts in the prayer that our Lord taught us:
1) praising the heavenly Father, 2) interceding for
our needs 3) concluding by praising God. In the
holy Qurbana, though not in perfect order, we can see
these three parts of Lord’s Prayer. The first part of
Qurbana is praising God. The element of Intercession
is clearly seen from karosuza prayer onwards. The
prayers after Holy Communion again highlight the
praises of Holy Trinity.

34

Different Rites of

In addition to the basic divisions of Qurbana into

the ministry of the Word of God and of the Bread,
the Syro-Malabar Qurbana is further understood
under seven parts. A detailed study of these parts
will certainly lead one to a better understanding
of the mystery of Holy Qurbana and to an authen-
tic God experience. These different parts highlight
the different facets of Christ’s life.

Annapesaha thirunnalil to sarvaathipanam karthaave.
1. Introductory Rite

This part commemorates Jesus’ birth, hidden life
and His public appearance to the world at the
time of Baptism in the river Jordan. The main ob-
jectives of this part are praising God the Father for
his wonderful acts of salvation, accomplished in
Jesus Christ and to lead the faithful to an authentic
God experience. The opening of the sanctuary veil,
lighting and incensing of madbaha, and the hymn
of sarvaathipanam karthave all lead the partici-
pants to a heavenly world.

Sabdhamuyarthi paadiduvin to the prayers of blessing
2. The Word of God Minisrty

after karosuza. Jesus’ Galilean ministry (procla-
mation of the Word of God) is specially commem-
orated here. After having entered into the divine
realm through the introductory rite, the faithful
praises the holiness of the Trinitarian God and
prepares him/her to live in the same experience
of divine holiness through hearing the Word of
God and purifying the individual life on its basis.

35


It involves the preparation of the bread and wine,
3. Rite of Preparation

and the spiritual preparation of the celebrant
and the faithful, bringing of the gifts from beth-
gazze to the altar - a symbolic re-presentation of
Christ’s journey to Galgutha - and offering of the
gifts. Jesus’ suffering, death and burial are spe-
cially commemorated in this part. The memory of
Bl. Mary, St. Thomas the Apostle, Righteous, Fa-
thers and Martyrs who shed their life for the Lord,
is brought to the altar. Before entering into the
celebration of anaphora the congregation profess
their faith in the Triune God.

4. Anaphora
It consists of four circles of gehandha prayers. Each
gehandha circle is composed of four elements.
a.
b. Kooshappa - celebrant’s prayer in low voice
Celebrant’s request for help,

mainly expressing his unworthiness to stand be-
fore the altar of the Lord,
c. Pranamajapam, being addressed to the dif-
ferent persons of the most Holy Trinity, these
prayers deal with the commemoration of differ-
ent aspects of salvific events starting from the act
of creation, events of Christ’s life and its continu-
ation in the Church by the sanctifying power of
the Holy Spirit through the life giving mysteries
of Baptism and the Eucharist.
d. Kanona - each gehandha circle is concluded with
praising God (kanona) for all the benefits.

36
65

The prayers of this part lead the faithful to the rec-
5. The Rite of Reconciliation

onciliation with God, universe and fellow beings.
The body of Christ is raised as a symbol of Jesus’
apparition after the resurrection and its fraction
results human beings’ reconciliation with God. As
a sign of this reconciliation the congregation of
faithful recites the Lord’s Prayer.

Through the reception of the Holy Communion the
6. The Rite of Communion with God

faithful experience an authentic communion with
God. The body and blood of Jesus are intermin-
gled with our human nature so that we might be
raised to the divine realm. Divinity and humanity
is perfectly united here.

As in the conclusion of Lord’s Prayer, the prayers af-
7. The Rite of Conclusion

ter the Holy Communion are praising God for the
wonderful gift of Qurbana. The faithful, deacons
and the celebrant praise the Holy Trinity, and
their prayers clearly indicate the eschatological
character of the communion between God and
man, experienced in the Holy Qurbana. The final
blessing of the Qurbana signifies Jesus’s blessing
over the apostles before his ascension into heav-
en. The faithful are blessed so that they may give
witness to the Lord wherever they are, by living
the Master’s commandment “Do this in memory of
me” in their daily life and encountering the Risen
Lord in different walks of life.This encounter with
the Lord will provide life a new horizon and deci-
sive direction.

37
65


Vatican Council’s teachings on
active participation in the celebration
of Holy Qurbana
“ The Church, therefore, earnestly desires that Christ’s faithful,
when present at this mystery of faith, should not be as strang-
ers or silent spectators. On the contrary, through a good under-
standing of the rites and prayers they should take part in the
sacred action, conscious of what they are doing, with devotion
and full collaboration. They should be instructed by God’s Word,
and be nourished at the table of the Lord’s Body. They should
give thanks to God. Offering the immaculate victim, not only
through the hands of the priest but also together with him, they
should learn to offer themselves. Through Christ, the Mediator,
they should be drawn day by day into ever more perfect union
with God and each other, so that finally God may be all in all”.
(The Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy No. 48)

1 9

T
Liturgical Year :
A Golden Key to the Door of Faith
he Liturgical Year (aradhanakramaval-
saram) is the golden path that leads the
The Season of The Season of

faithful to heaven. It connects the earth with
Annunciation Pallikudasha

the heaven. Through the repeated celebration
(Preparation for Jesus’ Birth) (Dedication of the Church)

of the liturgical year the worshipping com-
munity reaches its destination, the heaven.
Repeating of the liturgical year helps the
2 8
faithful to grow in God-experience and enter
deeply into the mysteries of Christ.

In the Church the members are blessed
with the opportunities of experiencing the
divine mysteries of salvation through their
commemoration in the different liturgical
seasons. Meditating and experiencing the di-
Elijah-Sleeva-Moses

vine mysteries, represented by each season of
Nativity (Transfiguration & Second

the Liturgical Year, the faithful are invited to
(Birth from Bl. Mary) Coming of Christ)

follow Jesus Christ in an authentic manner on
3 their journey to the Kingdom of God. The litur- 7
gical year of the Syro-Malabar Church is basi-
cally rooted on the divine mysteries of salva-
tion, accomplished in Jesus Christ. The feasts
of our Lord Jesus Christ and of the Saints are
arranged in such a way that they suit to the
spirit of each season. On the basis of the sal-
vific mysteries of Jesus Christ the liturgical
year is divided into nine seasons.
Kaitha
Epiphany (Growth of the Church
(Baptism at River Jordan) through the Apostles)

4 5 6

The Season of The Season of The Season of
Lent Resurrection Apostles
(Activities of the Holy Spirit
(Passion and Death) (Resurrection and Ascension) through the Apostles)

T he liturgical year of the Syro-Malabar Church be-
gins with the periods of Annunciation-Nativity.
The four weeks in preparation to the feast of the Na-
tivity of Jesus, celebrated on 25th December, consti-
tute the Season of Annunciation. Since we practice
abstinence from 1st to 25th December in prepara-
tion for Christmas, we call this period ‘25 days Lent’.
As per the meaning of the Syriac term ‘subbara’, used to denote this
season, it is period of ‘declaration’ or ‘announcement’. What angel Gabriel
announced to holy Mary was the greatest glad news to humanity that
eagerly waited for the Saviour. Thus, this season is developed in the con-
text of the mystery of Incarnation completed in the fullness of time. As a
preparation for the celebration of the mystery of Incarnation, this season
recalls creation, disobedience of our first parents and its consequences,
the miserable state of the broken humanity, the promise of salvation of-
fered by God, God’s covenant with humanity and the prophecies about
the Saviour. We also meditate on the role of Mary in the history of the
plan of salvation.
The readings, prayers and hymns of the season remind us that like
the people in the Old Testament who became aware of their miserable
condition and their hope for the Saviour, the people of New Testament
also should become aware of their helplessness and sinful situation and
walk towards Jesus and give place in their hearts for Him to be born.

40

T he word Epiphany in Syriac
is known as ‘denha’. It means
‘dawn’, ‘revelation’, ‘manifestation’
etc. In this season the Church recalls
the manifestation of Jesus which
began with His Baptism at Jordan.
Jesus reveals Himself to the world;
Father and the Holy Spirit witness
to it: “This is my beloved Son, with
whom I am well pleased” (Mt 3:7).
The mystery of the Holy Trinity is re-
vealed at His Baptism.
The Feast of Denha which is celebrated on 6th January is called ‘Pindikuthip-
erunnal’ by faithful who live in the Northern part of Kerala and ‘Rakkuli’ by peo-
ple of South. ‘Pindikuthiperunnal’ originated from the practice of going around
the ‘vazhapindi’ decorated with lights and singing ‘God is light’ commemorating
Jesus the light of the world. The name ‘Rakkuli’ came from the ritual bath that
our forefathers used to have in the river or pool nearby, on the eve of the feast. It
was a religious ceremony.
The saints who witnessed the revealed mystery of Christ through their lives,
are remembered by the Church on the Fridays of this season. The most impor-
tant themes commemorated during these days are Baptism of Jesus, His public
life, His divine and human nature, His intimate relation with the Father and the
Holy Spirit and his self-emptying love. In this season the Scriptural proclama-
tions (readings) chosen are mainly connected with the public life of Jesus. This
period reminds us of the Baptism of Jesus and our own baptism and the respon-
sibilities we have undertaken with it. Hence let us strive hard to know Him more
intensely and to live like the children of God during this season.

41

DIOCESAN
YOUTH

(DYA)
APOSTOLATE

T
National Coordinators of
Diocesan Youth Apostolate (DYA)
he ad-hoc National Youth Coordinators of Diocesan Youth Apostolate
appointed by our bishop with the decree Prot. No. 676/2011 dated Oct 07,
2011, and installed in office by His Beatitude Mar George Cardinal Alencherry,
is completing their term with great achievements and results. Considering their
commitments and dedication the same team is extended and appointed as the
National Coordinators of DYA. The following are the members.

Rev. Fr. Vinod Madathiparambil (The Director) Jeslyn Thomas (Atlanta, GA)
Abin Kuriakose (Cathedral, Chicago) Jibu Joseph (Cathedral, Chicago)
Brian Mundackal (Bronx, NY) Jomy Methipara (Baltimore, MD)
Charlotte Mathew (Atlanta, GA) Kavitha Joseph (Houston, TX)
Delix Alex (Garflield, NJ) Kevin Mundackal (Seminarian)
Geordie Daniel (Houston, TX) Rajeev Philip (Seminarian)
George Thomas (San Francisco, CA) Sherinrose Palatty (Garfield, NJ)
Jaisy Joseph (Boston, MA) Shilpa Francis (Garfield, NY)

Please visit http://www.facebook.com/groups/stthomasdya/

42

D YLG
(Diocesan Youth
Leaders Gathering)
December 26 – 30, 2012
D iocesan Y o u t h
Leaders Gathering

This is a training program for the upcoming and promising young leaders
of our parishes and missions. (The 2009 DYLG yielded great results: 3 Region-
al conferences (one more scheduled for coming January in CA), first National
Youth Conference, formation of a Team of National Youth Coordinators, process
of a Charter for the DYA, involvement in World Youth Day and NCYC & NCCC,
initiatives like Syro-Study, Vocations, and above all the formulation of the Dioc-
esan Youth Apostolate.) It is a beautiful opportunity to come together and enrich
each other as well as to know and experience the youth initiatives happening
across the diocese and thereby help the participants to be inspired and commit-
ted leaders of the Church.

a) Please send the current youth officer or an active youth from grades high
school or college. The Diocesan Youth Apostolate has a particular focus on
youth with outstanding faith and moral character.
b) Please send to frvinod@gmail.com the names of the delegates from the
parishes and missions at the earliest possible to help us make the arrange-
ments comfortable to the participants.
c) All representatives must email SyroMalabarDYLG@gmail.com and the
email will respond with the DYLG registration form.
d) We recommend representatives to fly in to either Chicago O’Hare (ORD)
or Chicago Midway (MDW) between 12pm – 6pm on Wednesday, Decem-
ber 26. This is just a recommendation. No matter what, we will accommo-
date everyone’s travel plans. As per Sunday, December 30, we recommend
everyone leave after 3:00pm from either airport.

43


e) The accommodation of the participants will be with host families at Syro-
Malabar Cathedral; with groups of guys and girls separated. All homes will
be 20-30 minutes away from the Cathedral.
f) There will be a registration fee per representative.
g) All questions can be referred to our official DYLG email and phone num-
ber: SyroMalabarDYLG@gmail and 312-725-4031
h) Please get a second Sunday collection in all parishes/missions for the de-
velopment of our Diocesan Youth Apostolate and our December 2012 gath-
ering. We hope the funds will address the logistical and financial needs of
our youth.

www.wcyc2013.com

2013
WCYC

A
WCYC
West Cost Youth Conference January 18-23, 2013
regional conference of the parishes and missions of the western region of
west cost
youth conference

our diocese. An awesome opportunity for the youth of the Syro-Malabar
Parishes/missions to come together and celebrate the beauty of our faith tra-
dition as well as to connect with the other youth groups and initiatives of our
diocese.Conducted at Saint Anthony Retreat Center, 43816 Sierra Dr/Hwy 198,
Three Rivers, CA 93271-0249.

Holy Family Syro-Malabar Mission, Phoenix, AZ; Infant Jesus Syro-Mala-
Participating Parishes/Missions:

bar Mission, Sacramento, CA; St. Alphonsa Syro-Malabar Catholic Church, Los
Angeles, CA; St. Mary’s Syro-Malabar Knanaya Catholic Parish, San Jose, CA;
St. Pius X Syro-Malabar Knanaya Catholic Church, Los Angeles, CA; St. Thomas
Apostle Syro-Malabar Church, Santa Ana, CA; St. Thomas Syro-Malabar Catholic
Church San Francisco, CA; Blessed Mother Theresa Syro-Malabar Catholic Mis-
sion, Las Vegas, NV.

44

4 Life : Pro-Life Ministry
“4Life” is a Pro-Life ministry initiated by Jesus Youth, USA in
collaboration with our St. Thomas Diocese and Syro-Malankara
Exarchate in USA, following the recommendation at the Presby-
terium 2012.
This ministry aims to network with the existing pro-life ac-
tivities and initiatives of the Catholic Church of America, to train
MISSIONARIES FOR LIFE - people who take a commitment to
practice and profess Pro-Life values, to develop “CENTERS OF
LIFE” in all parishes and missions of our diocese within next
three years. A concept formulation gathering of a few missionar-
ies for life was conducted on Dec 01 and 02, 2012 at Mar Thoma
Sleeha Syro-Malabar Cathedral, Chicago. The gathering proposed
the following activities and initiatives

1. Observe the Season of Annunciation as a time of spiritual
renewal and study of the teachings of the Church on Life
and its dignity (e.g. : Evangelium Vitae, Humane Vitae, and
Dignitas Personae).

2. Participation in the March for Life on January 25, 2013 at
Washington DC. Every parish/mission may arrange to the
participation in the March for Life on January 25. The St.
Jude Syro-Malabar Mission of N. Viriginia and the Syro-

45


Malankara Church of Washington will help arranging the
smooth participation. St. Jude Syro-Malabar Mission will
celebrate January 26 and 27 as a Pro-Life weekend with
prayer, training programs, Theology of the Body sessions,
adoration and Qurbana. Anyone interested is most wel-
come to attend this program.

3. Pro-Life Sunday: January 27, 2013 shall be observed as a
Pro-Life Sunday in all parishes and missions across our dio-
cese. This observance shall have prayer service for the un-
born, for the victims of abortion and other atrocities to life,
sessions on the teachings of the church, exhibitions, pro-
life videos and debates, poster making, slogan making, etc.
4Life ministry will be happy to help you with suggestions
and ideas to do this.

4. Regional training programs for MISSIONARIES FOR LIFE.
The ministry will be conducting regional training program
to train missionaries for life throughout the year 2013.
Please contact the 4Life ministry to conduct one at your re-
gion/parish/mission.

For contact:

Fr. Vinod Madathiparambil, frvinod@gmail.com; 630-901-5724
Email : 4life-ministry@googlegroups.com
Website : www.4life.jesusyouth.org
Logo : http://4life.jesusyouth.org/images1/4%20LIFE%20LOGO.jpg
Flyer : http://www.4life.jesusyouth.org/images1/4%20LIFE%20FLYER.jpg
Facebook : http://www.facebook.com/4lifeMinistry

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“I hope to meet you in two years, at the next World Youth Day in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Until then,
we pray for each other, witnessing to the joy that comes from living rooted and built up in Christ.
See you soon, dear young people! May God bless you.” (Holy Father B16)
Let us respond to this call of our Holy Father by participating in the WYD 2013; an awe-
some gift to every faithful especially the younger generation. Our participation is a joint effort
of Jesus Youth, USA, St. Thomas Syro-Malabar Catholic Diocese of Chicago and Syro-Malankara
Exarchate of USA.

Why attend World Youth Day 2013 in Brazil?
The Church provides this unique opportunity for youth to experience the beauty and
diversity of the Universal Church. Begun in 1985 by Pope John Paul II, this event happens
in different locations every two to three years. This year, the Holy Father has proposed the
focus of this WYD to be rooted in both the push for New Evangelization and the Church’s
initiative for the Year of Faith with the theme-
“Go and make disciples of all nations.” (Mt 28:19).
WYD Package- Total price - $800*
Pre-WYD gathering (July 16-19, 2013) Illinois, USA
Pilgrims will embark on this journey with a preparation for a fruitful and spirit-filled
experience at WYD. This gathering is essential for a proper orientation of all pilgrims
before traveling to Brazil in anticipation of a meaningful encounter with Christ in the
Catholic Church.
Youth Arise International Festival (July 20-22, 2013) Canas, Brazil
Youth Arise International is an international network of nearly 45 Catholic organiza-
tions, dedicated to the task of raising a generation of leaders to be apostles of charity

47


and truth for the mission of the Church.  For several years now YAI has been orga-
nizing a Youth Festival coinciding with the World Youth Days. JY pilgrims have been
participating in this festival since WYD 2000. It remains one of the most enriching
and edifying experiences of the WYD pilgrimage for the whole group.

World Youth Day (July 23-28, 2013) Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
During these days, youth from all over the world will come together to celebrate,
experience and deepen their faith. The Holy Father will join them at various points
and lead them deeper into the beauty of the Catholic Church.

Jesus Youth International Gathering (July 28-29, 2013)
(Optional) Package A- Total price - $100

During this gathering, Jesus Youth from all over the world will spend time in fel-
lowship and sharing of faith. A gathering of this type has been a regular part of
previous WYDs.

Mission in Rio (July 30- August 3, 2010)
(Optional) Package B- Total price - $300

This mission is for those who are experienced in mission and have a strong spiritual
formation. Participants will have to be approved to take part in this mission. This
opportunity will allow such people to serve in the rural areas of Rio and recognize
the face of Jesus in the poor.

* This package price includes all expenses (except for airfare) from July 16 (arrival
in Illinois) to July 29 (departure from Brazil). This includes food, simple accommodation,
and travel to/from airports. This also takes in a calculated conversion rate for Brazilian
currency based on yearly exchange rates.
Minors (under 18) - Those youth younger than 18 must have a chaperone accom-
pany them. One chaperone may be responsible for up to 5 youth under 18. The chaper-
one must be identified on the spot provided during registration.

Flight information - Jesus Youth will
assist in booking flights as a group. Once you
have registered you will be contacted for com-
pletion of flight booking. Price are rapidly ris-
ing so early registration is encouraged.

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Blessing and Re-dedication Consecration of the church of
of the Renovated Church of St. Stephen Syro-Malabar
St. Thomas Syro-Malabar Parish, Knanaya Catholic Church,
Bronx, NY Hempstead, NY
His Excellency Mar Jacob Angadiath St. Stephen Syro-Malabar Kna-
blessed and re-dedicated the renovat- naya Catholic Church, Hempstead,
ed church of St. Thomas Syro-Malabar NY was consecrated on November
Parish, Bronx on December 02, 2012. 26th 2012 by His Excellency Mar
This church was built, after the name of Jacob Angadiath. After the con-
St. Valentine, by the immigrant community secration, His Grace Mar Mathew
from Poland in 1931. On March 19th 2002, Moolakkatt, Archbishop of Kot-
Rt. Rev. John Okkonar, the Archbishop tayam, celebrated Holy Qurbana
of New York gave permission to the local in the new church. The announce-
Syro-Malabar community to make use of ment of the decree of the erection
the church for liturgical celebrations. On of the new parish and of the ap-
March 24th His Excellency Mar Jacob An- pointment of Rev. Fr. Joseph Thar-
gadiath blessed the church and renamed ackal as its first pastor was done
it as St. Thomas Syro-Malabar Church. during the function.
Recently the parish church celebrated its
10th anniversary. Under the leadership of This is the 30th parish of St.
Rev. Fr. Jos Kandathikudy, Pastor, the parish Thomas Syro-Malabar Catholic
community cooperated wholeheartedly for diocese of Chicago and 11th of its
the completion of the renovation work. Knanaya region.

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Continuous
Bible Reading
in St. Thomas Syro-Malabar Catholic Church,
East Millstone, NJ

I n connection with the observance of the Year of Faith a continuous
public reading of the Holy Bible, starting from the Book of Genesis
to the Revelation to John was arranged in St. Thomas Syro-Malabar
Catholic Church, East Millstone, NJ. The program was organized day and
night from December 5th to 9th (Wednesday-Sunday) 2012. The response
of the parish community to this program was very positive and welcoming.
Reading and listening to the word of God, the parish community whole-
heartedly cooperated with the program.
This continuous Bible reading program was arranged in response to
His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI’s invitation to rediscover a taste for
feeding the faithful on the Word of God in the Year of Faith.

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Austin, St. Alphonsa Syro-Malabar Catholic Mission
Coppell, St. Alphonsa Syro-Malabar Catholic Church
Dallas (Garland), St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church
Houston St. Joseph Syro-Malabar Catholic Church
McAllen (Edinburg), Divine Mercy Syro-Malabar Catholic Church
Oklahoma, Holy Family Syro-Malabar Catholic Church
Pearland, St. Mary Syro-Malabar Catholic Mission

S
San Antonio, St. Thomas Syro-Malabar Catholic Mission

t. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church Garland (Dallas)
will host Inter Parish Talent Fest (IPTF) for Dallas region.
Dallas is the only region in the diocese to host such an event
for the last three years. Eight parishes/missions of the re-
gion participate in this event. Over 300 students participate
in this Bible fest.

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With the goal of glorifying God through art and music, IPTF was start-
ed in 2010. St. Thomas the Apostle Dallas parish hosted the first IPTF
in 2010. IPTF is designed to bring the students and families across the
Dallas region to come together and get to know each other and develop
closer relations.
Rev. Fathers of the region under the regional director, Rev. Fr. Sebas-
tian Kaniampadickal, oversee this event. It is a program for CCD students
and all CCD directors of the region are part of the core team who develop
the rules and guidelines for the different events.
Bible Quiz, Speech, Song (English/Mal), Dance (Classical/Folk), Mono
act, Bible Skit, Instrumental Music, Painting, Pencil Drawing, Poetry and
Essay Competitions are the different events where students compete.
Parish Level competitions take place in December and top 2 winners
from each parish compete on March 9-10, 2013. All events have bible
themes. Bible Quiz is one event where adults also participate.
IPTF give a unique opportunity to develop talents for the students
and equip them to use the power of Christian media and art form in the
service of God’s kingdom. IPTF has become a celebration of the region
where hundreds of families across the region gather at host parish dur-
ing spring break of each year. The event witnesses outstanding perfor-
mances which has won national attention. Bishop Jacob Angadiyath who
attended last year’s event has proposed to have this repeated in other
regions and have a diocesan level IPTF.
St. Thomas the Apostle Church Garland (Dallas) invites parents and
kids across the diocese for IPTF 2013 that will be held on March 9-10,
2013. All events will be live telecasted over www.livestream.com. Please
visit www.iptfdallas.org for more details.

52

From Bishop’s
Diary
August
1 Wed Together with His Beatitude Major Archbishop Mar George Car-
dinal Alencherry participated in the inauguration of the new
facility for St. Mary Syro-Malabar Catholic Mission of Rockland
St. Boniface Church, Wesley Hills, NY.

2 Thu Concelebrated Holy Qurbana with Major Archbishop Mar
George Cardinal Alencherry at St. Mary’s Syro-Malabar parish,
Hempstead, NY.

3 Fri Accompanied Major Archbishop Mar George Cardinal Alencher-
ry to the reception given by Most. Rev. Charles Chaput, Arch-
bishop of Philadelphia.

In the evening celebrated Holy Qurbana at St. Thomas Syro-Ma-
labar Church of Philadelphia.

4 Sat Together with His Beatitude Mar George Cardinal Alencherry
His Excellency participated in the ‘Heritage Day’ celebration of
Kerala Catholics of Philadelphia, in which pioneers were recog-
nized and honoured.

10 Fri After blessing the newly built kodimaram and hosting flag,
celebrated Holy Qurbana at St. Mary’s Syro-Malabar Knanaya
Catholic Church, Morten grove in connection with the feast of
Assumption of Blessed Mary.

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12 – September 12
Syro-Malabar Synod at Major Archiepiscopal Curia at Mount
St. Thomas, Kakkanad and vacation in Kerala.

15-16 Celebrated Holy Qurbana in connection with the solemn feast
of Our Lady of Health and participated in the 10th anniversary
of the parish in Coral Springs, FL.

17-20 Participated in the Priests’ Conference of our diocese held at
Techny Towers, Chicago.

22 Sat Blessed the marriage of Suby and Bobby at Houston.

23 Sun Celebrated Holy Qurbana at St. Joseph’s Church Houston. In
the afternoon, visited St. Mary’s Syro-Malabar Catholic mis-
sion at Pearland, TX.

24-27 Attended Home Mission Bishops’ Meeting in Chicago.

30 Sun Celebrated Holy Qurbana at Lourd Matha Syro-Malabar Catho-
lic Church, Raleigh/Durham.

October
4 Thu Visited His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Richard Smith, the Arch-
bishop of Edmonton, Canada.

5 Fri In the morning, meeting with Most Rev. Frederick Henry, Bish-
op of Calgary. In the evening, celebrated Holy Qurbana with
the Syro-Malabar community at Calgary, Canada.

6 Sat Meeting with the committe of Syro-Malabar mission at
Edmonton, Canada.

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65

7 Sun Celebrated Holy Qurbana in connection with the inauguration
of St. Alphonsa Syro-Malabar mission at Edmonton, Canada.

14 Sun In the morning celebrated Holy Qurbana at St. Mary’s Syro-
Malabar mission at Mississauga, Toronto and introduced the
new pastor, Rev. Fr. Mathew Periappuram to the community.

In the evening celebrated Holy Qurbana at St. Thomas Syro-
Malabar mission at Scarborough, Toronto and introduced the
new pastor, Rev. Fr. Mathew Periappuram to the community.

At 7.00 pm attended the combined parish council meeting at
Precious Blood Church, Scarborough.

20 Sat Blessed the marriage of Robin and Elizabeth at St. Thomas the
apostle Syro-Malabar Catholic Church, Garland, Dallas, TX.

21 Sun Celebrated Holy Qurbana at St. Thomas the apostle Syro-Mala-
bar Catholic Church, Dallas.

24 Wed Officiated the wake service for James Purushothaman at
St. Thomas the apostle Syro-Malabar Catholic Church, Garland,
Dallas, TX.

25 Thu Officiated the funeral Holy Qurbana for James Purushothaman,
followed by burial at cemetery, Rowlet.

27 Sat Attended the concluding ceremony of the recitation of the holy
rosary, followed by the meeting with the committee members
of St. Alphonsa mission, Minneapolis.

28 Sun In the evening, inaugurated the Year of Faith and celebrated
solemn Holy Qurbana in St. Alphonsa mission, Minneapolis.

55
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November
3 Sat Blessed the marriage between Jency and Darrel in Philadelphia.

4 Sun Celebrated Holy Qurbana at St. Thomas Syro-Malabar Catholic
Church, Philadelphia.

In the evening celebrated Holy Qurbana at St. Jude Indian Catholic
mission, South Jersey, NJ.

9 Fri Celebrated Holy Qurbana at St. Alphonsa Church, Coppel, TX.

10 Sat Blessed the marriage of Bensley and Boby Bazil at St. Thomas the
apostle Syro-Malabar Church, Garland, Dallas, TX.

11 Sun Celebrated Holy Qurbana at Christ the King Syro-Malabar Knana-
ya Catholic Church, Dallas, DFW, TX.

12-14 Participated in the US Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) in
Baltimore.

18 Sun Celebrated Holy Qurbana at Mar Thoma Sleeha Cathedral,
Bellwood.

22 Thu On the Day of Thanksgiving His Excellancy celebrated Holy Qur-
bana at St. Michael’s CMC convent, Schererville.

23 Fri Blessed the marriage between Neethu Abraham and Jacob John at
Mar Thoma Sleeha Cathedral, Bellwood.

24 Sat Consecrated the church of St. Stephen Syro-Malabar Knanaya par-
ish community, Hempstead, NY and concelebrated Holy Qurbana
with Archbishop Mar Mathew Moolakkatt.

25 Sun Celebrated Holy Qurbana at St. Mary’s Syro-Malabar Church, West
Hempstead and thereafter attended the parish council meeting.

56

Vision and Mission
of St. Thomas Syro-Malabar

in the Light of II Vatican Council’s Decree Orientalium Ecclesiarum

B lessed Pope John Paul II, promulgating the Code of Can-
ons of the Eastern Churches (October 18, 1990) wrote:
“The Church by God’s providence, gathered in the one Spirit,
breathes as though with two lungs, of the East and of the
West, and burns with the love of Christ in one heart, having
two ventricles”. Making use of a common metaphor of human
life, the Pope explicitly asserted the importance of Eastern
and Western traditions in the life of One, Holy, Catholic and
Apostolic Church of Jesus Christ. Catholic Church is a com-
munion of 22 particular Churches, of which Latin Church

57


belongs to Western tradition and other 21 inherit Eastern tradition. Syro-Mala-
bar Church is the second biggest Oriental Catholic Church.
Second Vatican Council in its decree entitled “Orientalium Ecclesiarum” (OE-
Oriental Churches) has made it explicitly clear that “these individual Churches,
both Eastern and Western, are of equal rank, so that none of them is superior to
others because of rite” (OE no. 3). If it is not so, the equilibrium of the breathing
process of the Church will be in danger. Therefore the Decree upholds: “Provi-
sions must be made everywhere in the world to protect and advance all these
individual Churches. For this purpose each should organize its own parishes
and hierarchy, wherever the spiritual good of the faithful requires it” (OE no.4).
The Decree continues to exhort every catholic faithful to retain his/her own rite
wherever he/she is and follow it to the best of his/her ability and, in a special
way, it demands all the members of the Eastern Churches to preserve their own
legitimate liturgical rites and ways of life, and if they have fallen away due to cir-
cumstances of times or persons, they have to strive to return to their ancestral
traditions (OE nos. 4-6).
The vision of the Decree “Orientalium Ecclesiarum” makes very clear the mis-
sion of St. Thomas Syro-Malabar Catholic Diocese of Chicago and its various par-
ishes and missions in United States of America. Our diocese with its parishes
and missions is a great blessing from God to deepen and practice the faith in Je-
sus Christ, received through St. Thomas the Apostle, and to hand over the same
faith to the young generation. We aim at knowing more about the customs, tra-
ditions and rich heritage of Syro-Malabar tradition through proper understand-
ing and celebration of the liturgy. Parish Council, Sunday School (CCD), Family
Prayer Units and other faith oriented activities of different Pious Organizations
of Youth and Adults (DYA, Vincent de Paul, SMCC etc.) have the common aim of
maintaining the identity of Syro-Malabar Church.
Let us understand, acknowledge and love our Syro-Malabar identity and
bring up our children in the great faith, handed over by our heavenly Patron,
St. Thomas the Apostle, through active involvement in the diocesan and parish
level activities. Let us be proud of being a member of Syro-Malabar Church and
re-dedicate our life to understand the history of our Church so that we may be
able to love our mother church in a better way.

58

II Vatican Council (1962-1965) at a Glance
• It is the 21st Ecumenical Council and the first since Vatican I (1869-1870).
• The first announcement of the Council was on January 25, 1959 by Pope John XXIII.
• The preparatory works for the Council lasted for more than three years from
1959-1962.
• The preparatory commissions and secretariat were established on June 5, 1960.
• The Council was officially convoked on December 25, 1961 with the apostolic
constitution Humanae Salutis.
• Pope John XXIII opened the Council which had four sessions on Oct 11, 1962.
• Pope Paul VI opened the second session on September 29, 1963 and continued
the other sessions to the end on December 8, 1965.
• 2625 Bishops from all over world participated in the Council of which 82 were
Indians.

Different Sessions and the Documents Declared
1st Session (Oct 11-Dec 8, 1962): No document was declared.

2nd Session (Sept 29-Dec 4, 1963):

1. Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy-Sacrosanctum Concilium-SC
2. Decree on Instruments of Social Communication-Inter Mirifica-IM

3rd Session (Sept 14-Nov 21, 1964):

3. Dogmatic Constitution on the Church-Lumen Gentium- LG

5. Decree on Eastern Catholic Churches-Orientalium Ecclesiarum-OE
4. Decree on Ecumenism-Unitatis Redintegratio-UR

6. Decree on Priestly Formation-Optatam Totius-OT

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7. Decree on the Appropriate Renewal of the Religious Life
Perfectae Caritatis-PC
8. Declaration on Christian Education-Gravissimum Educationis-GE
9. Declaration to non-Christian Religion-Nostra Aetate-NA

4th Session (Sept 4-Dec 8, 1965)
10. Pastoral Constitution on the Church in the Modern World

Gaudium Spes-GS

11. Dogmatic Constitution on Divine Liturgy-Dei Verbum-DV

12. Decree on the Aposto late of Laity-Apostolican Actuositatem-AA

13. Decree of Bishop’s Pastoral Office in the Church-Christus Dominus-CD

14. Decree on the Ministry and Life of Priest-Presbyterorum Ordinis-PO

15. Decree on the Church Missionary Activity-Ad Gentes-AG
16. Declaration on Religious Freedom-Dignitatis Humanae-DH

• They provide a mine of wisdom and religious insight relevant to the age both in
The Relevance of the Documents of Vatican Council II

the Church and the World today.

• Even today they have lost nothing of their value and brilliance.

• They need to be read correctly, to be widely known and taken to heart as impor-
tant and normative texts of the magisterium within the Church tradition.

• They can be considered as the great grace bestowed on the Church in the twen-
tieth century. Therein we can find sure compass to carry out the bearings of the
21st century.

• If we interpret and implement it guided by a right hermeneutic, it can become
increasingly powerful for the ever necessary renewal of the Church.

60

DOOR OF FAITH

The door of faith is always open for us, ushering us into the life of communion
with God and offering entry into his Church. It is possible to cross that
threshold when the word of God is proclaimed and the heart allows itself
to be shaped by transforming grace. To enter through that door is to set
out on a journey that lasts a lifetime. It begins with baptism.
(The Door of Faith No. 1)

St. Thomas Syro-Malabar Diocese: December 2012 Bulletin

St. Thomas Syro-Malabar Diocese: December 2012 Bulletin

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