വണങ്ങേണ്ടത് ബലിപീടത്തേയോ? അതോ...

ദൈവാലയത്തിന്റെ കേന്ദ്രം ബലിപീടം ആണ്. നാം കുമ്പിടുന്നതും വണങ്ങുന്നതും ഒക്കെ ബലിപീടത്തെ ആണ്. എന്നാൽ ഈ വസ്തുത എത്ര പേർ ശരിയായി മനസ്സിലാക്കിയിട്ടുണ്ട് എന്നത് സംശയകരമാണ്. ദൈവാലയത്തിന്റെ മധ്യഭാഗത്ത് കുമ്പിടുന്നത് അവിടെ ക്രൂശിതരൂപം ഉള്ളതുകൊണ്ടോ സക്രാരി ഉള്ളതുകൊണ്ടോ സ്ലീവ ഉള്ളതുകൊണ്ടോ അതുമല്ലെങ്കിൽ മാതാവിന്റെയോ മറ്റു വിശുധരുടെയോ രൂപങ്ങളോ ചിത്രങ്ങളോ ഉള്ളതുകൊണ്ടോ ഒക്കെ ആണെന്ന് വിശ്വസിക്കുന്നവരാണ് മഹാ ഭൂരിപക്ഷവും. എന്നാൽ നാം വണങ്ങുന്നത് അല്ലെങ്കിൽ വണങ്ങേണ്ടത് ബലിപീടത്തെയാണ്.

നസ്രാണി സഭയിൽ സക്രാരിയോ വി. കുർബാന സൂക്ഷിച്ചു വെക്കുന്ന പതിവോ വി. കുർബാന എഴുന്നള്ളിച്ചു വച്ച് ആരാധിക്കുന്ന രീതിയോ ഒന്നും തന്നെ ഉണ്ടായിരുന്നില്ല. ഇവയുടെ ഒക്കെ കടന്നു വരവോടെ പലരുടെയും ചിന്തകളിൽ ആരാധനയ്ക്ക് വി. കുർബാന ഉണ്ടാക്കാനുള്ള ഒരു ചടങ്ങായി വി. കുർബാനയർപ്പണം മാറിക്കഴിഞ്ഞു. അതോടൊപ്പം തന്നെ സക്രാരിക്ക് ബലിപീടത്തേക്കാൾ പ്രാധാന്യവും പലരും കൊടുത്ത് തുടങ്ങി. ഈ ഒരു സന്ദർഭത്തിൽ ദൈവാലയത്തിന്റെ കേന്ദ്രം ബലിപീടമാണെന്ന വസ്തുത പ്രകടമാക്കാൻ ആണ് സക്രാരി കേന്ദ്ര ഭാഗത്തുനിന്നു (അൾത്താര) മാറ്റി വശങ്ങളിൽ ക്രമീകരിക്കുവാൻ തുടങ്ങിയത്.

മറ്റു പലർക്കും പ്രധാനം വമ്പൻ ക്രൂശിത രൂപങ്ങളും മാതാവിന്റെയും മറ്റു വിശുധരുറെയും പ്രതിമകളും ചിത്രങ്ങളും ഒക്കെ ആണ്!!

വി. കുർബാനയിൽ സർവ്വാധിപനാം കർത്താവേ എന്ന ഗാനം ആലപിക്കുമ്പോൾ നാം വണങ്ങുന്നത് ബലിപീടത്തേയാണ്. മറ്റൊന്നിനെയും അല്ല. ഇത് അറിയാഞ്ഞിട്ടാണോ അറിയില്ലാ എന്ന് നടിച്ചുകൊണ്ടാണോ ബേമ്മായില്ലാതെ ജനാഭിമുഖ കുർബാനയർപ്പിക്കുമ്പോൾ കാർമ്മികർ ബലിപീടത്തിനു പുറം തിരിഞ്ഞുനിന്നു ഭിത്തിയിലെ രൂപങ്ങളെയോ ചിത്രങ്ങളെയോ വണങ്ങുന്നത്? മെത്രാന്മാർ പോലും ഇങ്ങനെ ചെയ്യുമ്പോൾ ആരെയാണ് കുറ്റപ്പെടുത്തേണ്ടത്?

സിനഡ് കുർബാനയർപ്പിച്ച് ശീലമില്ലാത്ത ഒരു സിറോ മലബാർ മെത്രാൻ കുർബാനയർപ്പണം കഴിഞ്ഞ് ബലിപീടത്തോടുള്ള യാത്രചോദിക്കൽ (വിശുധീകരണത്തിന്റെ ബലിപീടമേ സ്വസ്തി എന്ന പ്രാർത്ഥന) ബേമ്മായോട് നടത്തി, ബേമ്മാ ചുംബിച്ച് വിടവാങ്ങുന്നതും കാണാൻ സാധിച്ചു. നമ്മുടെ ഈ പോക്ക് എങ്ങോട്ടാണ്? ഈശോ മിശിഹായുടെ വി. ബലിപീടത്തിന്റെ പ്രാധാന്യം നമ്മുക്ക് മറക്കാതിരിക്കാം. ഓരോ തവണ കുമ്പിടുമ്പോഴും ഇത് മനസ്സിലുണ്ടാകട്ടെ.

Do we really need these kind of Bishops?

Mar Thoma Sleeva (St Thomas Cross) is the symbol of Marthoma Nazrani Church (Syro-Malabar Church) and the 'Bema' is an integral part of our church architecture. Both these are unavoidable elements for the proper Celebration of the Holy Qurbana of the Syro Malabar Church.

As a byproduct of Colonization & Latinization, our church lost all of its traditions including these basic elements. And since the past few decades, we are in the process of recovering all these valuable traditions.

Instead of bringing back the lost traditions and installing St. Thomas Cross & Bema in Churches, here we have a Diocese and its Bishop who removes St. Thomas Crosses & Bemas from the Churches in his see. We don't know what to say to this Bishop! Was this why our Bishops begged and knocked the doors of Latin authorities to create a diocese for the faithful in Delhi NCR? If it was to kill the traditions, why do we need a separate diocese like this at all?

After the Synod of Diamper, remember our forefathers agitated against the Latin prelates who were entrusted to look after them and protested for a separate hierarchy and local bishops, only to restore and protect our traditions! But to have a Bishop like this, who assumes to be the successor of those Latin prelates and destroying our traditions is like an attempt of suicide.

This Bishop is a shame for Marthoma Nazranis. Please join us and ask the Holy Synod and the Major Archbishop of Syro Malabar Church to intervene in this and to restore St Thomas Cross and Bema in all these churches.

We stand for protecting and propagating the valuable traditions of our Church. We don't mind losing page likes because of this post. We are sure that the true children of the forefathers who loved their church and shed their lives for her faith and glorious traditions will be there with us.

*Diocese mentioned here is Faridabad Diocese Syro-Malabar and its prelate Archbishop Kuriakose Bharanikulangara.

St Thomas Cross- The Cross of St Thomas Christians in India- True symbol of Christian faith

St Thomas Cross is the common name for the decorated crosses which were used by the St. Thomas Christian community in India. Even though there are no evidences for any direct links to St. Thomas, these crosses are attributed to St Thomas, due to the fact that they took shape in and were widely used among the St. Thomas Christians.

When we analyse the St. Thomas Cross, based on the recent developments in iconography and sculptures, we can see the beautiful depiction of the holy Trinity. The empty Cross, without the crucified Jesus, symbolizes the resurrected Son of God, Iesho Mishiha. The descending dove symbolizes the Ruha D' Qudisha (Holy Spirit). In the early Christian archaeology and iconography, God the Father was depicted in and through His creations like leaves, fruits, flowers, animals etc. Hence the lotus flower/leaves on which the Cross is erected symbolizes our God, the Heavenly Father. Thus we could say that the St Thomas Cross is a beautiful depiction of the Holy Trinity.

Some people argue that these crosses were imported from Persia. But the granite on which these Crosses were carved are all local granite. And the use of the same decorations in the contemporary sculptures of other religions (especially in Buddhism) points to the Indian origin of this cross. Some started allegations linking this Holy Cross to Manichean-ism. It should be noted that there is no historical evidence for the use of the Cross in any form by the Manechaens.

Many accounts of the travelers and missionaries testify to the wide use of such decorated crosses among the St Thomas Christian community.

The letter of Alvaro Penteado to the king of Portugal in 1516-1517 says, “In their churches, they have crosses on the altars and on the roofs; they do not have statues or reliefs”.

"And the old Churches were all built like the temples of the gentiles, but all full of Crosses like of the miraculous Cross of Mylapore, which they call Cross of St. Thomas, from which it can be seen how old is the veneration of this Cross, and its devotion, than at the time when it was found by the Portuguese; for the old Churches built by these Christians, many years before the Portuguese came out to India, were all adorned by them, both with painting and with sculpture." -Jornada of Dom Alexis De Menezis, Antonio De Gouvea (1600)

From all these narratives, it is clear that this decorated cross was venerated in the Madbaha (Altar) of the Churches of St. Thomas Christians. But in the course of time, after the 16th century, these crosses disappeared from the Churches. There could be be different reasons for this.

1) Portuguese might have destroyed these crosses, during the period of conflicts with the St. Thomas Christians (As evident from the broken Cross discovered from Goa)

2) St. Thomas Christians might have hidden the Crosses from the Portuguese, who were trying to destroy them.

3) It might be due to the imposed Portuguese theology. The Portuguese might have imposed their theology and cross among the faction of St Thomas Christians under them. They might have built the Churches and kept the Latin Cross/Crucifix when the old churches of the St. Thomas Christians were renovated. Similarly the Antiochean Cross might have replaced the St. Thomas Crosses in the Churches of St. Thomas Christians, who were then under the control of the Antioch Church. As a consequence, the forgotten St. Thomas Cross might have disappeared. ( The cross of Alangad was found abandoned, lying like a mile stone on the road side. )

At present these crosses are found in St. Thomas Mount Chennai (Mylapore Cross), Goa, Anuradhapura (Srilanka), Alangad, Muttuchira, Kothanalloor, Kottayam and Kadamattom.

What ever be the reasons behind their disappearance, it is clear that these Crosses were venerated in the most holy place, the Madbaha (Altar) of all the Churches of St. Thomas Christians. There were no statues, Crucifixes or anything else but these beautiful decorated crosses.

Open letter to Pope Francis

"Most Respected Holy Father, Kindly give equal rights to all Autonomous Churches in communion with the Holy See. Please stop restricting the Eastern Churches to small territories."

Catholic Church or the Holy See is the Ecclesia or Communion of 23 autonomous or particular Churches including Latin Church and 22 Eastern Catholic Churches, having equal rights and duties. Each of these 23 Churches are having its own head. Bishop of Rome is the Head of Latin Church and at the same time, the Head of the Holy Catholic See. Majority of the Catholics are a part of Latin Catholic Church. Other Catholics belongs to 22 Eastern Catholic Churches.

While the Latin Church enjoys 'Global' privileges, Eastern Churches are restricted to some small territories, defined by specific boundaries. It is very difficult for an Eastern Church to establish Parishes or serve its own faithful living outside its territory. Latin Church creates Parishes/Dioceses wherever they wants. But when an Eastern Church tries to create a Parish outside its territory, in most of the cases, the local Latin authorities does not allow it. Exceptions are there. But In majority regions around the world, this is what happening. As a result the Eastern Churches are facing serious difficulties to give away the traditions to the younger generations of the migrants.

As a part of the Catholic Church, Eastern Churches also have same rights and duties as the Latin church. Our mother Church, Syro Malabar Church is having millions of faithful migrated to various states of India and various countries across the globe. But still we are restricted to the small state of Kerala in India. As a result our migrant communities are losing their traditions. Cries for parishes and dioceses takes infinite amount of time. In some regions local Latin authorities denies even the Liturgical celebrations according to our traditions.

"..Means should be taken therefore in every part of the world for the protection and advancement of all the individual Churches and, to this end, there should be established parishes and a special hierarchy where the spiritual good of the faithful demands it.." (Vatican Council II)

This was a dream of Second Vatican Council. Even after 50 years, sadly, we can not see any improvements.

 "..All members of the Eastern Rite should know and be convinced that they can and should always preserve their legitimate liturgical rite and their established way of life.." (Vatican Council II)

But we are not allowed to do the same!!! How can we preserve our traditions when we are not allowed to live according to our traditions and give away our traditions to the younger generations? 

So this is a very serious issue. Latin Church have the responsibility to help smaller Eastern Churches to preserve and nurture their traditions. Most respected Holy Father, kindly open the windows for the Eastern Churches. Please allow the Eastern Catholic Churches to grow and serve their faithful around the Globe. Stop restricing us by creating bounderies. Let every one understand the beauty of the  Catholic Communion. 

May the grace of our lord Ieso Mishiha, Love of our heavenly father and the blessings of Ruha de kudisha be with us for ever and ever..

 

"ഒരുമയോടിബലി അർപ്പിക്കാം"- നമ്മുടെ സഭയ്ക്ക് വേണ്ടി!

കത്തോലിക്കാ സഭയെയും പ്രൊട്ടസ്റ്റന്റ്- പെന്തെക്കോസ്ത് സമുഹങ്ങളെയും താരതമ്യം ചെയ്യുമ്പോൾ സുപ്രധാനമായി ചൂണ്ടിക്കാണിക്കുന്നത് കത്തോലിക്കാ സഭയുടെ ഹയരാർക്കിയിൽ അതിഷ്ടിതമായ കൂട്ടായ്മയാണ്. മറു വശത്ത് ആയിരക്കണക്കിന് പാസ്റ്റർമാരുറ്റെ കീഴിൽ ഐക്യ രൂപമോ ഭാവമോ ഇല്ലാത്ത ചെറുതും വലുതുമായ സെക്ടുകളും. മലബാർ കത്തോലികാ സഭയുടെ ഇന്നത്തെ അവസ്തയും ഏകദേശം ഇതുപോലെ ഒക്കെ ആണെന്നത് നഗ്ന സത്യമാണ്. മെത്രാന്മാരും സൂനഹദോസും ശ്രേഷ്ഠ മെത്രാപ്പൊലീത്തയും ഒക്കെ ഉണ്ടെങ്കിലും 30 രൂപതകൾക്ക് 30 രീതിയും 10 വൈദികർക്ക് 100 രീതിയും എന്നതാണ് ഇന്നത്തെ അവസ്ത. പള്ളി പണി മുതൽ പ. കുർബാന വരെ എത്തിനിക്കുന്ന പൊരുത്തപ്പെടായ്മകൾ.! സൂനഹദോസിൽ എടുത്ത തീരുമാനങ്ങൽ സ്വന്തം രൂപതയിൽ നടപ്പിലാക്കെണ്ടായെന്നു ഉത്തരവിറക്കുന്ന മെത്രാന്മാർ.. മെത്രാനെയും സഭാ നിയമങ്ങളെയും വെല്ലുവിളിച്ചുകൊണ്ട് തോന്നിവാസങ്ങളും അബദ്ധ പ്രചാരണങ്ങളും നടത്തുന്ന വൈദികർ. ഇതിനൊക്കെ ഇടയിൽ തമ്മിലടിച്ചു നടക്കുന്ന വിശ്വാസികൾ..

പഠന-ജോലി ആവശ്യങ്ങള്ക്കായി പ്രവാസ്സികളായി തീരുന്ന വിശ്വാസികളുടെ അവസ്ഥ എന്താണ്? റോമൻ കത്തോലിക്കാ സഭയുടെ പ്രാദേശിക മെത്രാന്മാരുറ്റെയും വൈദികരുടെയും ശക്തമായ എതിർപ്പുകൽക്കിടയിലാണ് മലബാർ സഭയുടെ ഭൂരിപക്ഷം പ്രവാസി കേന്ദ്രങ്ങളും പ്രവര്ത്തിക്കുന്നത്. മൈലുകൾ താണ്ടിയാലാവും ചിലപ്പോൾ സിറോ-മലബാർ ദൈവാലയങ്ങളിൽ എത്താൻ സാധിക്കുന്നത്. സഭാ സ്നേഹമുള്ള ധാരാളം പേർ ഇത്തരം കഷ്ടതകൾ സഹിച്ചും സ്വന്തം ദൈവാലായത്തിൽ എത്തുമ്പോൾ വലിയൊരു ഗണം എളുപ്പത്തിന്റെ പേര് പറഞ്ഞ് തൊട്ടടുത്ത ലാറ്റിൻ പള്ളിയിൽ പോയി 'കടം തീർക്കുന്നവരാണ് '. നിർഭാഗ്യമെന്നു പറയട്ടേ, പ്രവാസികളായി തീരുന്ന യുവതലമുറയിൽ ഭൂരിപക്ഷവും ഈ കൂട്ടത്തിലാണ്. സാഹചര്യങ്ങൾ എല്ലാം ഉണ്ടെങ്കിലും എന്തേ ഇങ്ങനെ? ( ലാറ്റിൻ പള്ളികളിലെ വൈദികൻ മലയാളി ആണെങ്കിലോ? പിന്നെ സ്വർഗ്ഗം കിട്ടിയ അവസ്ഥയും! മലബാര് സഭാ മക്കളെ സ്വന്തം റിത്തിലുള്ള പള്ളികളിലേക്ക് പറഞ്ഞു വിടാനുള്ള മനസ്സെങ്കിലും ആ വൈദികർ കാണിച്ചിരുന്നെങ്കിൽ! )എവിടെ പോയി നമ്മുടെ സഭാ സ്നേഹവും 12 വർഷത്തെ വേദപഠനങ്ങളും? എന്ത് പറ്റി നമ്മുടെ അതി പുരാതന കുടുംബങ്ങലുറെ പുതു തലമുറകൾക്ക് ? എന്തെങ്കിലും ചോദിച്ചാൽ "അതിപ്പോ ഏതെങ്കിലും ഒരു പള്ളിൽ അങ്ങ് പോയാൽ പോരേ" എന്നാകും മറുപടി! ഇംഗ്ലീഷ് പോയിട്ട് തമിഴോ തെലുന്ഗോ കന്നടയോ ഹിന്ദിയോ എന്തും ആയിക്കൊള്ളട്ടെ..മനസ്സിലായാലും മനസിലായില്ലെങ്കിലും (ഓ, മറന്നു! നമ്മുക്ക് മനസ്സിലാകാത്തത് സുറിയാനി മാത്രം ആണെല്ലോ! ) ഞായറാഴ്ച എവിടേലും ഒരു കുർബാന 'കണ്ടാൽ' മതിയല്ലോ!

എവിടെയാണ് നമ്മുക്ക് പിഴച്ചത്? സഭാസ്നേഹവും വിശ്വാസവും 12 വർഷങ്ങൾക്കപ്പുറം നിലനില്ല്കുന്നില്ലെങ്കിൽ നാം തുടർന്ന് പോകുന്ന വേദപാഠതിന്റെ പോരയ്മകളിലെക്കല്ലേ അത് വിരൽ ചൂണ്ടുന്നത്? കത്തോലിക്കാ വിശ്വാസത്തെക്കുരിച്ചും മാതൃ സഭയുടെ ചരിത്ര-പാരമ്പര്യങ്ങലെക്കുരിച്ചും സംശയങ്ങൾക്ക് ഇടനാല്കാതിരിക്കതക്കവിധം തലമുറകളെ പഠിപ്പിക്കേണ്ടത് സഭയുടെ നിലനില്പ്പിനു തന്നെ ആവശ്യമാണ്‌. അല്ലെങ്കിൽ ഇപ്പോൾ കാണുന്ന വളര്ച്ചയോക്കെ തളര്ച്ചയായ്‌ മാറാൻ അധികം നാൾ കാത്തിരിക്കേണ്ടി വരില്ല! നസ്രാണി സഭയുടെ ചരിത്രവും വിശുദ്ധമായ പാരമ്പര്യങ്ങളും ഏക മനസ്സോടെ പറഞ്ഞുകൊടുക്കാതിരിക്കുന്നത് സഭയിൽ ഐക്യം ഇല്ലാതത്കൊണ്ട് തന്നെയാണ്! ഒത്തുതീർപ്പിൽ തർക്കവിഷയങ്ങളെ കുഴിച്ചുമൂടിയിരിക്കാം! ഫലമോ? മാതൃ സഭയെക്കുരിച് അജ്ഞരായ മക്കൾ!

സ്വന്തം മക്കൾ ഇങ്ങനെ ഒക്കെ ആയിപ്പോകുന്നെങ്കിൽ ആ കുറ്റത്തിൽ നിന്ന് മാതാപിതാക്കൾക്ക് ഒഴിഞ്ഞു മാറാൻ സാധിക്കുമോ? സഭയുടെ പഠനങ്ങൾ അനുസരിച്ച് സ്വന്തം മക്കളെ വിശ്വാസത്തിൽ വളർത്താനുള്ള ഏറ്റവും വല്ല്യ ഉത്തരവാദിത്വം മാതാപിതാക്കൾക്കാണ് ! ആ ഉത്തരവാദിത്വം ശരിയായി നിർവഹിചില്ലെങ്കിൽ അത് സഭയോടും സമൂഹത്തോടും ചെയ്യുന്ന 'തിരുത്താൻ പറ്റാത്ത' തെറ്റായിട്ടാണ് രണ്ടാം വത്തിക്കാൻ കൗണ്‍സിൽ പഠിപ്പിക്കുന്നത്.

രൂപതകൾ തമ്മിലുള്ള ഭിന്നതകളാണ് മുകളിൽ പ്രസ്ഥാവിച്ചതുൽപ്പടെയുള്ള ഇന്നത്തെ മലബാര് സഭയുടെ എല്ലാ പ്രശനങ്ങൾക്കും മൂല കാരണം. ഈ ഭിന്നതകലുടെ പ്രധാന കാരണം വി. കുര്ബാനയര്പ്പന രീതിയും! ഭിന്നതകലുടെ എല്ലാം മൂല കാരണം ഇതായിരിക്കെ സഭ ഏറ്റവും പ്രാധാന്യതോടെ കൈകാര്യം ചെയ്യേണ്ടതും എറ്റവും വേഗത്തിൽ പരിഹാരം കാണേണ്ടതുമായ വിഷയം വി.കുർബാനയാണ്.

എന്നാൽ വർഷത്തിൽ 2 പ്രാവശ്യം സമ്മേളിക്കുന്ന സിനഡ് ഈ വിഷയം പ്രതിപാതിച്ചു കാണാരേ ഇല്ല. രോഗത്തിന് ചികിത്സിക്കാതെ രോഗലക്ഷനങ്ങല്ക് വർഷങ്ങളോളം ചികിത്സിച്ചാലും രോഗം മാറുമോ? വി. കുർബാനയിൽ യൌസേപ് പിതാവിനെ അനുസ്മരിക്കുക്ക, വിശ്വാസികളുടെ മൃതദേഹം ദഹിപ്പിക്കാൻ അനുവദിക്കുക, പരിസ്ഥിതി സംരക്ഷിക്കുക തുടങ്ങിയ താരതമ്യേനെ പ്രാധാന്യം കുറഞ്ഞ വിഷയങ്ങൾ മാറ്റി വെച്ച് സഭയുടെ വിശ്വാസവും ഐക്യവും സംരക്ഷിക്കാനുള്ള തീരുമാനങ്ങൽ എന്തുകൊണ്ട് ഉണ്ടാവുന്നില്ല? തിയഡോരിന്റെ അനാഫറയും പ്രോപ്രിയകളും വിശുദ്ധവാര കര്മ്മക്രമങ്ങളും ഒക്കെ സിനഡ് ചര്ച്ച ചെയ്ത് അങ്ങീകരിക്കുന്നത് കാണാഞ്ഞിട്ടല്ല (2 രൂപതകല്ക്ക് മാത്രം നടപ്പിലാക്കാൻ ആണെങ്കിൽ എന്തിനാണോ 45 മെത്രാന്മാർ ഇതൊക്കെ കഷ്ടപ്പെട്ട് ചർച്ച ചെയ്ത് തീരുമാനങ്ങൽ എടുക്കുന്നത് ? ഇതൊക്കെ 2 മെത്രാന്മാരും മെത്രാപൊലീതയും കൂടെ തീരുമനിചാൽ പോരെ? ) ഇതിനെക്കാൾ ഒക്കെ പ്രധാനം വി. കുർബനയുടെ അർപ്പണത്തിൽ വേണ്ട ഐക്യമാണ്. ഈ വിഷയം തീരുമാനമാക്കാതെ ദശാബ്ദങ്ങളായി നീട്ടിക്കൊന്ദു പോകുന്നത് തല്സ്ഥിതി തുടരാനും ഐക്യം ഉണ്ട്ടാകുന്നത് തടയാനും അത് വഴി സഭയെ തകര്ക്കാനുമുളള സ്വാർത്ഥ മോഹികലുറെ ഗൂടലക്ഷ്യം ആയിക്കൂടേ?

അല്ലെങ്കിൽ പിതാക്കന്മാരുടെ സമാധാനകാംക്ഷയും പിളർപ്പ് ഉണ്ടാകുമോ എന്ന ഭയവും ആകാം! കാരണങ്ങൾ എന്തുമാവട്ടെ, ഈ മൗനം സഭയുടെ നന്മയ്ക്കല്ല, നാശത്തിനേ ഉപകരിക്കു! പരസ്യമായി സൂനഹദൊസിനെയും സഭാ പഠനങ്ങളെയും വെല്ലുവിളിച്ചുകൊണ്ട് ചിലർ നടത്തുന്ന കോപ്രായങ്ങൾക്ക്‌ മുന്പിൽ സഭാ നേതൃത്വം നോക്കുകുത്തികൾ ആകുന്നത് എന്ത് കാരണംകൊണ്ടാണെങ്കിലും ന്യായികരിക്കാൻ സാധിക്കില്ല. മണ്മറഞ്ഞ പിതാവിന്റെ സ്വപ്നം ആണെന്ന് പറഞ്ഞു ഒരു വൈദികൻ കാട്ടികൂട്ടിയത് ആരും മറന്നു കാണില്ല! (പിതാവിന്റെ കാലത്ത് തന്നെ വത്തിക്കാൻ അത് നിരോധിച്ചതാണെന്നത് സൗകര്യ പൂർവ്വം മറന്നു! ഇതിനെ ഒക്കെ ന്യായീകരിക്കാൻ മാധ്യമങ്ങളിലൂടെയുള്ള പ്രചാരണങ്ങളും!) ശക്തമായ ഇടപെടലുകൾ ഉണ്ടായേ മതിയാവു. വി. കുർബാനയുടെ കാര്യത്തിലുള്ള തീരുമാനം എത്രയും വേഗത്തിൽ ഉണ്ടാവണം. വിഷയത്തെ പക്വതയോടെ കൈകാര്യം ചെയ്യണം. തുറന്ന ചർച്ചകൾ ഉണ്ടാവണം. വൈദികരും അല്മായരുമെല്ലാം സഭാമാതാവിനോടു ചേർന്ന് നിന്നുകൊണ്ട് ഉറച്ച തീരുമാനങ്ങൽ എടുക്കണം. വി. കുർബാനയിൽ തുടക്കം കുറിക്കേണ്ട ഐക്യം മലബാർ സഭയെ എല്ലാ മേഖലയിലും ഒരേ ആത്മാവും ഒരേ ശരീരവുമായി വളർച്ചയിലേക്ക് നയിക്കും.

എത്ര സുന്ദരമായ നടക്കാത്ത സ്വപ്നം! അങ്ങനെയാകും മഹാഭൂരിപക്ഷം വിശ്വാസികളുടെയും പ്രതികരണം. ശരിയാണ്! എന്നാൽ അത് നടപ്പായെങ്കിൽ മാത്രമേ നമ്മുടെ സഭയ്ക്ക് വളര്ച്ച ഉണ്ടാവു, നിലനില്പ് ഉണ്ടാവു. അതിനായി വിശ്വാസികൾ ഒന്നിക്കണം. പരി. സൂനഹദൊസിനു നല്ല തീരുമാനങ്ങൽ എടുക്കാനും നടപ്പിലാക്കാനും പരിശുദ്ധാത്മാവ് ശക്തി നല്കട്ടെ!

നമ്മുടെ കർത്താവിശോമിശിഹായുടെ കൃപയും പിതാവായ ദൈവത്തിന്റെ സ്നേഹവും പരിശുധാത്മാവിന്റെ സഹവാസവും നമ്മോടുകൂടെ ഉണ്ടാവട്ടേ..

The Crown of Nazrani Church!

Mar Joseph Powathil, Archbishop Emeritus of Changanacherry, Syro-Malabar Church, India needs no introduction in a scholar group of oriental Catholics. Being elevated to Bishop rank, even before completing 10 years as a priest, he had served his mother church and the society for a long 40 years as a bishop. He had celebrated his Ruby Jubilee of Consecration and Silver Jubilee of Priestly Ordination in 2012. For all these years, he had lived for the church and with the church. The man who preaches after a thorough study, The man whose actions are always in line in with his preachings, The man who committed not even a single mistake in his words, The man who believes what he said is cent percent correct. It is Mar Joseph Powathil, The First Syro Malabar bishop consecrated by a Pope, The bishop who raised his voice for the equal status of all the individual churches, The bishop who argued for restoring the lost identity and traditions of his mother church, The bishop who came forward for Ecumenism and Inter Religious co-operation, The bishop who had the courage to lead the church and protect its rights and faith....This is a tribute to this great Archbishop

A short profile of the ministry in truth and charity*

Archbishop Joseph Powathil was born in the quiet hamlet of Kurumbanadom, near Chanaganacherry, Travancore. He was dearly known as Pappachan in his childhood, and he officially goes by the name of P. J. Joseph. He went to school at Holy Family LP School and St. Peter’s UP School, which were both in his home village, and the St. Berchmans’ High School in Changanassery. An economics graduate of St.Berchmans College, Changanassery and Loyola College, Madras, he went on to receive his post graduate diploma in economics from Oxford University in 1969.

Mar Joseph did his seminary studies in St. Thomas Seminary Changanassery and Papal Seminary Pune. He was ordained priest on October 3, 1962. Just after his ordination Joseph Powathil was appointed lecturer in economics at St. Berchmans’ College, the same college where he had his graduation studies. Though his later years were full of Episcopal responsibilities it is an irony that Father Joseph had very little pastoral experience as a priest. The authorities thought the other way, to utilize his leadership qualities and organizing abilities, besides his experience as a teacher and mentor, in the making of a prelate.

He was appointed auxiliary bishop of Changanassery (Titular Bishop of Caesarea Philippi) on January 29, 1972 and was ordained bishop by Pope Paul VI on February 13, 1972. On February 26, 1977 a new diocese was created under the name Kanjirappally bifurcating Changanassery archdiocese. Bishop Powathil was transferred to there as the first bishop. He served the new diocese for nine years. He rose to become archbishop and returned to Changanassery on November 16, 1985 succeeding Mar Antony Padiyara.
As the archbishop of Changanassery Mar Powathil pushed assiduously for the restoration of East Syrian traditions in the Syro-Malabar Church. He fought vigorously for the complete revival of the Divine Liturgy that was Latinised after the Synod of Diamper, although it was partially revived after Vatican II. However, these efforts got him several critics even among his fellow bishops, alleging that what he espoused amounted to adoption of Chaldean Christian and Orthodox Christian practices. This was apparent during his race as a candidate in the election of president of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of India in 1994.

Though most of the Latin Catholic bishops from all over India supported his candidature, he had to overcome a very strong opposition from a group within his own church. Despite this severe setback, he went on to win the election. As the president of C.B.C.I. Mar Powathil voice became heard throughout India and his work began to win accolades and respect even from other religious leaders. In 1996, as a poetic justice, he was unanimously asked to further serve the C.B.C.I. for another term. Archbishop Powathil was also chairman of Kerala Catholic Bishops' Council (K.C.B.C.) from 1993 to 1996.

He served as President of Catholic Bishops Conference of India (CBCI) (1994–1998), Chairman of Kerala Catholic Bishops Council (1993–1996), and Chairman of Education Commission of the CBCI. He is at present a member of the Post Asian Synodal Council in Rome, Italy (since 1998), Chairman of KCBC Commission for Education (since 1986), Founder and Chairman of Inter Church Council for Education, Chairman of Inter Religious Fellowship, member of the Pro Oriente Foundation at Vienna, Austria (since 1993) and member of the Scientific Commission of International Publication ‘Oasis’ from Venice, Italy.
Realizing the importance of the Youth Apostolate he took the initiative in establishing a Diocesan Youth Movement called ‘Yuva Deepthi’ in 1972. In course of time it spread to all the dioceses in Kerala leading to the formation of Kerala Catholic Youth Movement (KCYM) and he was the first chairman of the KCBC Youth Commission. He started Apostolate for the senior citizens, apostolate for the emigrants and apostolate for the tourists in the Archdiocese. CANA, the Indian Section of the Pope John Paul II Institute for Studies on Marriage and Family, at Thuruthy with head quarters in Rome is another achievement of him.

He did a great deal to promote formation based on his Syro-Malabar identity, to priests, religious and the laity. Oriental Study Forum, Dukrana - periodical, Christian Orient - periodical, Missionary Orientation Centre (MOC, recognized by the Congregation for Catholic Education, Rome), Amala Theological College for the novices, Mar Thoma Vidya Nikethan for Laity (Master Degree in Religious Sciences: recognized by the Congregation for Catholic Education, Rome) etc. are the means used for the same. He also founded an Eastern Monastic Congregation – Sisters of St. Thomas

On January 22, 2007, Monday, the resignation of Archbishop Joseph Powathil, in conformity with Canon 210 of the Code of Canons of the Eastern Churches, was made public by the Holy See and on the same day, it was announced that the then Auxiliary Bishop of Changanacherry, Mar Joseph Perumthottam would succeed Mar Joseph Powathil in the office as the Archbishop of Changanacherry.

Syro-Malabar Church: Before and After Mar Powathil

Liturgical Reformations

After the formation of two vikariats- Kottayam (Changanacherry) and Thrissure for the Mar Thoma Nazranis, concerns were raised for the native bishops to lead the church. Our forefathers believed that it was necessary for the restoration of our lost traditions and liturgy.  As a result, in the course of time, native bishops were entrusted the church. But due to the intensity of Latin formations, they were more or less ignorant to ask the Vatican to release Syriac translation of the Latin texts for the use in Malabar. Many works for regaining the lost liturgy was conducted in the course of time. But it got momentum only with the leadership of Mar Joseph Powathil. As the head of Central Liturgical Commission, he tried to restore the Holy Qurbana of the Syro-Malabar Church, as per the guidelines of Vatican. Result was the Restored Holy Qurbana, inaugurated by Saint Pope John Paul II, at Kottayam on February 8, 1986. After this, he tried to give awareness about our prestigious liturgy and traditions to the common laymen in different levels, starting with small children at Sunday Schools to the aged people using Mar Thoma Vidyanikethan.

The 'liturgy of the hours' (Yamaprarthanakal) of the Syro-Malabar Church got wide acceptance due to the work lead by Mar Powathil. Morning prayer (Sapra) became common in Churches and Evening Prayer (Ramsa) became popular in houses. Present young generation of the Archdiocese may find it hard to believe the fact that Yamaprarthanakal were hardly used some decades ago.

For the Identity of the Church

Head of the Mar Thoma Nazranis was known as the 'Gate of All India and its premises'. From this, the church was restricted to a small area bounded by the two rivers in the small state of Kerala. Even after the formation of hierarchy, most of the powers vested with the Vatican. In a Latin dominated Bishops Conference of India, Mar Powathil argued for the equality of all the individual churches in India. He raised voice for the right for mission work and the pastoral care for the migrants. As a result, Blessed Pope John Paul II wrote the historic letter to all the bishops in India. Bishops Conference of India was restructured to give equal importance to all the individual churches in India- The Syro Malabar, Syro Malankara and Latin Churches. Syro Malabar Church was raised into the Major Archi Episcopal status in 1996 and many new dioceses and mission stations were started outside the territorial boundaries of the Church.

         For the Migrants

Mar Powathil was the one who thought about the migrants of the church. Due to the large scale migrations for the better job opportunities and educational needs, a large amount of faithful were forced to live in the Latin dioceses, outside the proper territory of the Church, without having proper pastoral care by the mother church. Mar Powathil raised the issue to Vatican and in the Bishops conferences. As a result, Mar Antony Padiyara was appointed as the Apostolic Visitor for the Migrants, to study the present status of the migrants and report the needs. As a result of the Apostolic Visitor's studies, large population of the faithful were identified in many cities and immediate action was taken to erect a new diocese of Kallyan for the migrants in and around Bombay.

A golden chance missed in 1990s

Mar Powathil was a great leader and the proud son of the Syro Malabar Church. Yet he didn't become the Major Archbishop of the Church. What ever be the reasons, it will be marked as the golden opportunity missed by the Syro-Malabar Church in the modern era.

Kerala  Churches- Mar Powathil= ???

Mar Powathil is a highly influencial and most respected personality among Kerala Christians.

Eccumenist Leader

For all who are outside the Syro-Malabar Church, Mar Powathil is the man of Ecumenism. He worked hard for the unity and co-operation among all the christian factions. He formed Nilackal Eccumenical Trust and Inter-Church Council for Education. Nilackal Church is considered as the first Ecumenical church in the world. There was a great progress in the Catholic-Orthodox and Catholic-Jacobite dialogues, under the leadership of Mar Powathil. Mar Powathil is also the life time member of Pro-Oriente eccumenical conference in Vienna. He succeeded in co-coordinating all the christian churches for the protection of faith and rights.

An ever Judicious Advocate of Minorities and Educational rights

Mar Powathil is regarded as the ever judicious Bishop. When ever there were challenges for the faith or minority rights, he came up with his powerful leadership. Whether it was College struggle(1972) against Congress led government's educational policies or in the Self financing college issue(2006) aginst the Communist government, Mar Powathil was there in the leadership to protect the rights of the faithful. Mar Powathil was the first one to identify the violation of Indian Constitution in the unanimously passed Self financing colleges bill. It was a new knowledge for even the members of the legislative assembly, when Mar Powathil explained the facts. He is ever judicious to each and every happenings around him. State witnessed his knowledge and powerful leadership in 2006, when the Communist led state government tried to take away the minority rights in the name of Self financing colleges bill.

A model for Social Service: Educational and Service Ventures

Alumni at famous Oxford university and the Professor at St. Berchmans' college changanacherry, Mar Powathil have a bunch of great students including Oommen Chandi (Chief Minister, Kerala) and Justce Cyriac Joseph (Supreme Court Judge)

There is no other bishop who had involved so much in the formation of Kerala state's higher education policy. 'College samaram' in 1972 and Self financing college issue in 2006, saw the courage, leadership and wisdom of Mar Powathil. He succeeded in finding the violation of Indian constitution in the Self financing colleges law, which was passed unanimously by the legislative assembly. Even the opposition leaders identified this violations, when Mar Powathil explained!!

The social development activities of Mar Joseph Powathil is a model for all. He founded the famous and prestigious Peerumedu Development Society (P.D.S) and the Malanadu Development Society (M. D. S) in 1977 while he was the bishop of Kanjirappaly. The Kuttanadu Vikasana Samithy (KVS) is another brainchild of Archbishop Powathil for the integral development of the place and people of Kuttanadu. These serves the Highrange and Kuttanad ever since their formation. Kuttanad Vikasana Samithi is regarded as the voice of the Kuttanad.

Mar Joseph Powathil's special care and concern for the margininalised, especially for the mentally challenged children is manifested in 19 special schools for the mentally challenged in the Archdiocese itself and four schools for the physically handicapped. The first school for the mentally challenged in the central Travancore region was opened by his initiative in 1972 (Asha Bhavan) at Ithithanam near Changanassery. Now it is the largest residential school with hundred students and twenty-five teaching and non-teaching staff.

Mar Powathil's support made the CHASS (Changanacherry Social Service Society) to develop a lot of projects for the welfare of the society. After the Episcopal Ordination of Mar Powathil in Vatican in 1972, he asked to avoid the wastage of money for receiving him. So the reception was done in a simple manner, and the rest of the money was given to Mar Powathil for the welfare activities. This was the birth of the Archdioce's 'Jiivakarunya nidhi' Now this had developed to a trust which gives support to the needy fraction of the society.

The innovative vision of Mar Joseph Powathil in the field of education gave way for the first University affiliated media college in south India, St. Joseph's College of Communication(SJCC) and the first Community college in Kerala, associated with a regular Arts and Science College- Assumption Institute of Technology(later renamed as Archbishop Powathil Assumption Community College)

In the scenario of 1998, where no one from Kerala was qualified for Indian Administrative Service(IAS) in the Civil service examination, Mar Powathil identified that it was due to the lack of proper training and guidance. Hence he gave form to the Palai St. Thomas Civil Service Institute as a joint venture of the Changanacherry, Palai and Kanjirappally dioceses. In the course of time it rose to become the synonym of the Civil Service training in Kerala and guided hundreds of aspirants into the prestigious Indian Civil Service. Even now, the institute keeps the words of Mar Powathil "This should not be for our profit, but service should be the objective." The institute provides the best training at the cheapest rates.

Mar Powathil's efforts for Communal harmony and Ecumenicism had a great impact. He formed Inter Religious Fellowship with other religious leaders. Nilackal Ecumenical Trust and Inter Church Council for Education was formed by the co operation of all the christian denominations. Nilackal St Thomas Ecumenical church became the world's first ecumenical church.

Rise of a Mar Powathil Generation...

'Pope John Paul II generation' is the term used to point to the generation which is blessed to live during his reign, witness his activites and to get motivated from him. Pope John Paul II was such a phenominal and influencial personality in the modern era. When the matter of Syro Malabar Church is considered, there is no one who is so influencial and inspiratonal as Mar Joseph Powathil. From a latinized church, he could restore an oriental church, From a church which was forced to be within a small territory of Kerala, he could manage to initiate mission dioceses in North India and USA. He could make the church into a Major Archi Episcopal church. He could gain the equality for all the individual churches in India. He could inaugurate the resored Holy Qurbana of Syro Malabar Church. He could protect the constitutional rights of the minorities in Kerala, He could prevent the Atheist attack, He could line up all the christian churches under the banner of Inter church council for Education and Nilackal Eccumenical trust, He could join hands with other religious leaders under Inter Religious Forum for the peaceful co-operation.  His love and affection to the marginized and poor gave form to 'Jiivakarunya Nidhi' and many schemes of CHASS. His vision and mision gave form to the First university affiliated media college in south India and the First Community college associated with a regular Arts and Science college in Kerala. Malanadu Development Society, Peerumed Development Society and Kuttanad Vikasana Samithi also shows his commitment towards the society. Hence it was not only the church, but also the entire society was blessed by the activities of Mar Powathil.

Precisely, i would like to use the term 'Mar Powathil Generation' to point out the Catholic generation which was blessed and influenced by the Phenomenal Archbishop Mar Joseph Powathil. During the time when Mar Powathil became bishop, Syro Malabar Church's territory was limited inside a small boundary in Kerala. In a Latin dominated hierarchy of Catholic Bishops Conference in India, he raised voice for the equality of all the 3 individual churches in India and for the freedom for Missionary work. Mar Powathil had to argue a lot. Finally Mar Antony Padiyara was appointed to study the status of Syro Malabar migrants. Pope John Paul II wrote his historic letter to the bishops in India, stating the equality of all the Individual churches...And now every one accepts the equality of 3 individual churches in India, Mission diocese started to be created in India and USA, Chruch now considers the matter of Migrants as of great importance...We have to thank Mar Powathil for this...Again, his arguments and activities were crucial in raising Syro Malabar Church to a Major Archi Episcopal church.

Ecumenism in Kerala witnessed its peak with the leadership of Mar Powathil. His leadership improved the co-operation with all the christian churches and other religions in Kerala. His ecumenical  leadership was not limited in Kerala. His works for the Catholic-Jacobite dialogues gave form to a lot of agreements between the Vatican and Jacobite churches.

Mar Powathil's important contribution was in liturgy. Syro Malabar Holy Qurbana was restored by his great initiative. His pastoral and catechetical care made people of many dioceses aware of the sacred liturgical traditions of Syro Malabar Church. Use of the traditional 'Litugy of Hours' was popularized by him. He took initiative to teach the faithful about our sacred traditions, liturgy and Holy Qurbana. He popularized the use of Mar Sleeva. From the design of the churches, to the vestment of the priests, an oriental form was appeared because of his great leadership. His leadership, guidance and support was a great help for the scholars who researched for the traditions of the church. With his support, they could do a lot for the benefit of the mother church.

When Mar Powathil came with his concepts, majority was against him. He had to suffer a lot. But the truth cannot be hidden. In a poetic justice, every one now understands the correctness of this great leader. Now majority of the bishops and faithful follows his teachings. A new generation, interested in the great traditions and the identity of Syro Malabar church had risen. It includes Major Archbishop, Bishops, Priests, Laity, Youth and even small children. Let the future of the Syro Malabar church be safe in this 'Mar Powathil generation'...

And Finally,,

Let me conclude, quoting the words of Cardinal Telesphore P Toppo, Latin Archbishop of Ranchi and the former President of Catholic Bishops Conference of India. "...The children of the Syro-Malabar Church would gratefully remember the efforts and leadership Mar Powathil has given during a defining moment in the history of this church, especially for the restoration of its legitimate rights and its identity as an individual Church...His tenure as Bishop and Archbishop was a historical period for the Syro-Malabar Church marked by no small number of challenges and problems...This was a challenge that required tough choices and he took tough choices, and history proves that he stood in the right track...He is a champion of the identity of the Syro-Malabar Church in the contemporary period..." Yes, he is the champion of the Syro-Malabar Church in the modern era, the one who can be undoubltfully called as the 'Crown of Syro-Malabar Church'

*Section taken from wikepedia and edited

When Mar George Alencherry completes 365 days in the Throne of Mar Thoma Sleeha

After the sad demise of Mar Varky Vithayathil, we got a new Major Archbishop, Mar George Alencherry to lead us. If Mar Vithayathil was a man of peace, who was chosen by the almighty to lead us in the midst of the internal crises, Mar Alencherry is a man of courage and wisdom, who was chosen by the god to lead us to a fully developed individual church. His election marked a mile stone in the history of the 1960 year old catholic church of the Mar Thoma Nazranis. For the first time in the history, the Holy Synod of the Syro-Malabar Church elected their Major Archbishop. He is a man who knows the presence of the church and its needs for the future. He is well aware of the holy traditions and identity of the church. His election was the most valuable gift for the Syro-Malabar Church in 2011. In this auspicious occasion of the first anniversary of this great election, let us brief the important events happened in the year.

A man of Wisdom and Determination

Syro Malabar Church was blessed abundantly by the god almighty through the election of HB Mar George Alencherry. A simple man, who loves the most valuable traditions of the church. A man who has the right knowledge is not the one whom we need. In addition to the knowledge, 'determination' is also equally important. Thankfully our new Major Archbishop is a well determined leader. He have his stands. A man who knows the importance of his designation, 'Major Archbishop of the Syro Malabar Church*'. Even though its too early, within few months after his election, he was able to convince that Syro Malabar 'Oriental Catholic Church' have a powerful and energetic Major Archbishop.

Mar George Alencherry was well determined to lead the church in union and also raise the voice for the needs. Even before completing one year, he was able to fulfill the dream of the church to have a diocese at Delhi for the migrants. Where ever he go, whomever he meet, he is determined to proclaim the great traditions and identity of the 1960 year old catholic church. We are blessed to have a Major Archbishop who not only knows the traditions, but also live and lead according to the oriental traditions of our church.

We are also blessed to have a person who have his own stand in the issue of the celebration of sacred liturgy and the holy Qurbana. A man who values the synodal decisions above his likes. A man who wishes to see the Holy Qurbana of the Syro Malabar Church being celebrated in the same way, wherever it is celebrated in the globe. A man who had the courage to tell everyone that Qurbana should be celebrated properly according to the synodal decisions. Throughout the year, in all his visits to the Syro Malabar dioceses and communities around the globe, he celebrated the Qurbana according to the synodal decisions. He also had the determination to celebrate the Qurbana according to the synodal decision on the occasion of the jubilee celebrations of the Kodungalloor Mar Thoma shrine, where all his fellow Syro Malabar bishops were the co-celebrants. For this determination, he had to face some bitter experiences from his own priests in Ernakulam. Even though they succeeded in preventing fast changes, they failed in correcting him. He continued to celebrate the liturgy according to the synodal decisions, wherever possible. This courage and determination makes him different from his predecessors.

A Major Archbishop from a mission diocese

'A Major Archbishop from a mission diocese', that too when the church was all set to celebrate the Mission year, in concern with the golden jubilee of the first mission diocese of the syro malabar church,  was a big surprise and blessing to the missions. He managed to visit most of the mission dioceses even in his very first year. In all his visits, he was given hearty welcome by the natives. First Mission fest conducted in Karnataka state jointly by the three Syro Malabar dioceses in Karnataka was a great and unique event in the history of the church. People from all the three dioceses managed to make the event a great success.

Diocese of Faridabad: Happy news for all migrants

Inauguration of the diocese of Faridabad on May 26-27th is a gift on this occasion. Mar George Alencherry was able to raise his voice for the needs of the migrants. As a result, our longtime dream for a diocese at Delhi was fulfilled through the erection of the diocese of Faridabad. Even though we got the diocese of Faridabad, the need for new dioceses and mission stations are increasing rapidly to cope up the pace of the migration of the faithful. If the number of migrants is considered, new dioceses should have been created in other metropolitan cities in India, Gulf and Europe. We have very high need of dioceses at Banglore, Chennai and Gulf. Hope Mar Alencherry can succeed in this effort as soon as possible. Let us pray for this. In this year, he had managed to visit some syro malabar communities like Singapore. In all these regions, he was able to convince the local bishops, the needs of the community. He is also raising his voice for the migrants, in Vatican. Hope all these efforts become successful.

HB HE Mar George Cardinal Alencherry

In this February, Mar George Alencherry was given the title of Cardinal. Thus he became one of the few, who will be called as 'His Beatitude His Eminence' in Vatican. It was a due recognition to the Syro Malabar Church, when Mar George Alencherry was given the title, even before completing one year as the Major Archbishop. Mar George Alencherry used the occasion to proclaim the identity of his church. He made it clear that he is not a simple cardinal, but also the Major Archbishop of the Oriental Syro Malabar Church. He chose long red dress and biretta with Mar Sleeva on top , his 'Rudraksha mala' and 'Kai sleeva' (hand cross) rather than using the vestments of Latin cardinals. Here also Mar Alencherry showed that he is different from his predecessors who used the Latin vestments. This was a big surprise to all including the global media. All reported the 'odd one' among the Cardinals with due respect and importance. Reuter’s album 'An Indian Cardinal' became popular. Mar Alencherry thereby made the nation and our church proud by proclaiming the uniqueness.

Into the Holy Congregations for Doctrine of Faith & Oriental Churches#

Soon after the consistory, Mar Alencherry was nominated to the Holy Congregations for Doctrine of Faith and Oriental Churches. This was surely the acceptance of Mar Alencherry's capabilities and the Holy See expects lot more contributions to the church from Mar Alencherry. It is evident from the fact that these all happened before the completion of his first year as Major Archbishop. We have to also consider the fact that these are the most important two of all holy congregations.

Few words about the controversy

At the same time when we were so proud of Mar Alencherry, the incident of Italian mariners happened. When two Italian mariners were arrested by the Kerala police, for killing two fishermen, Mar Alencherry was in Rome for the consistory. Some of the Kerala and Central government ministers were along with him, for attending the function as the representatives of the governments. Italian news agency reported that Mar Alencherry will mediate and solve the issue. They also reported that he had 'influenced' the ministers to let the mariners free. This fake or misinterpreted news created a big controversy. Actually it was a misinterpretation of what Mar Alencherry said to the news agency. When asked about this, the reply given to an interviewer by Mar Alencherry is as follows.

'What was given to the news agency (Fides) was not an interview. It was just a presentation of the scenario related to my cardinal post. Questions came in between the talk was like this.

Q: Did you hear what all happened in Kerala (about mariners)

A: Yes

Q: Why is it made a political issue?

A: These are happening in all countries. Is n't it?

Q: Two ministers were with you. Will they solve the issue?

A: Ministers will solve the issue.

This was misinterpreted that Mar Alencherry and ministers are with the Italy. Local media also tried to ignite the issue.

Final words of Conclusion

When Mar George Alencherry completes his first year in the Throne of Mar Thoma, let us thank the god almighty for choosing the right person. Let us be proud that we have a powerful, energetic and well determined oriental Major Archbishop. Let us pray to the almighty to strengthen his hands.

May the grace of our lord Ieso Mshiha, love of our holy Father in heaven and the fellowship of Ruha De Kaddish be with us for ever and ever..

* Major Archbishop of the Syro Malabar Church- Head and Father of 4 Million Syro-Malabar Catholics...Head of the Third Largest Catholic Church and the Largest Thomasine Christian Community....The largest among the 3 churches who are in Catholic Communion ever since their birth(AD 52 for Syro Malabar Church)...Our head once had the title 'Gate of whole India and it's premises'.

# Congregation for Doctrine of faith- is the final word of all faith related matters of the church especially of the Latin church. Oriental churches have not much obligations towards the decisions of this congregation.

Congregation for Oriental churches- is the holy congregation who look after all the matters related to the oriental churches.