Dallas : The ordination of Mar Jacob Angadiyath, and the tenth anniversary of the consecration of the St Thomas Syro-Malabar Church, Dallas, was celebrated on Sunday. Mar Angadiyath is the first bishop of the Diocese of Chicago, which is the first diocese of the Syro-Malabar church outside of India. He is also the first vicar of the St. Thomas Parish, in Dallas, which is the first Syro-Malabar parish outside of India. Along with the ordination, those who have completed their twenty-fifth, fortieth and fiftieth years of marriage were celebrated. Sr Clerin Kodianthara SABS was honored and commended for her 25th Anniversary of ordination.

Mar Jacob Angadiath was the main celebrant of the holy mass along with other celebrants, Fr. James Nirappel Vicar, Fr Joshi, and Fr. Joji Kaniyampadi-under whose leadership the construction of the church was completed. In his message, Mar Angadiath said that immigration dates back to the time of Abraham, and that the story of immigration is consistent throughout history. There are three forms of God's temple, our own body, our family, and our parish. The bishop reminded us to keep these three temples habitable for God and clean inside and out. We must raise our children the way God wants us to. The bishop reminded us that the growth of the parish is determined by what our children become.

A meeting was held at the jubilee hall after the holy mass. A cake-cutting ceremony was held as a part of the bishop's jubilee celebrations. Parish Vicar Fr.James Nirappel, Fr. Joshi, and Pastoral Council member, Elcy Philip, greeted the gathering. People who grew up holding the hand of the Vicar during childhood, from various parts of the country, shared old memories with their families and sent greetings directly or through video messages which were heartwarming. Many referred to the loving bishop as the “Second Father”.

Sr Clerin Kodiyanthara SABS celebrated the 25th anniversary of religious commitment, along with the couples who celebrated their 25th, 40th and 50th wedding anniversaries. Mother Superior of Immanuel convent Sr Maria Thengumthottam SABS was also present at the occasion. Parish Trustee Matthew Malanall, Bobby Johnson, Jerin Thannayan, and members of the Parish Council presided over the function. The stage was beautifully decorated with the craftsmanship of Lincy Thalakkulam. The ceremony left a joyful imprint in the faithful's hearts.