The UAE chapter of the Pravasi Apostolate of Changanacherry Archeparchy organised a family meet of members of all seven emirates in Fujairah today.

The meet was graced by the presence of Father Jijo Marattukulam, assistant director of Changanacherry Pravasi Apostolate. Father Teji Puthuveettikulam, Director of Changanacherry Pravasi Apostolate spoke to the gathering through video conferencing.

The meet opened with the recitation of the 'Yama Prararthana' by all members gathered at the occasion.

The prayer song by Eva Josy and Diya Josy created a faith filled atmosphere in the gathering. 

The inaugural address and Key note speech by Father Jijo Marattukulam gave a glimpse into the origin and importance of the Pravasi Apostolate. Father Jijo said that the Apostolate is ever present to serve its members in all their needs, be it education, career or spiritual.

Father Teji Puthuveettikalam, who was unable to attend the meet in person, assured his prayers and best wishes to the gathering.

The lamp lighting ceremony was done by Father Jijo Marattukulam; Biju Mathew, Coordinator of UAE chapter; John Kocherry, Executive Memeber; Biju Dominic, GCC Executive Member, Binu John, Secretary; Thomas John, Treasurer; Shibu Devasya, SMCA Fujairah Coordinator

Various cultural programmes, Games, were also organised during the meet to build cordial relations between the members of the various Emirates.

The meet also honored members who had contributed towards the growth of the Apostolate as well as the community in general and also  families who exhibit an exemplary faith life. Prizes for the winners of the 'Jingle bells' competition was also distributed during the gathering.

Apostolate activities over the year at a glance

Various chapters of the Pravasi apostolate were established in the UAE and various other Gulf regions on the instructions of Archbishop Mar Joseph Perumthottam during his visit to the Middle East in 2011.

The activities of the Apostolate grew and continue to flourish under the guidance of Father Teji Puthuveettikalam who was appointed as its Director in 2020. Father Jijo Marattukulam's appointment as the Assistant Director gave a further impetus to the activities of the Apostolate.

SMCAC, the Nasrani Jyothis and various other initiatives have taken form in the UAE ever since the establishment of the Apostolate.

Monthly online prayer meetings are held with 10-15 family members with the presence of Father Teji and respective Executive Committee members.

Under their leadership, Executive Committees were established in each of the seven emirates in the UAE. WhatsApp groups were created incorporating various families and members. This small group has grown into one comprising of 1015 members so far in a very short span of time.

The Apostolate has been a helping hand to many during the Covid 19 pandemic, providing assistance to those who lost their jobs and by providing around 70 free airtickets to those who could not afford it.

The job cell helps the job seekers. The study cell organises webinars and study sessions. A weekly bulletin is aired by the Media Cell. The Norka desk educates about the Norka's activities and facilities members to acquire Norma's membership. The B2B network and Little star operations works for the betterment of the apostolate members.

The Apostolate has also recognised the 'Save kuttanadu webinar', samagam 2021, Career guidance webinar, spark 2021, Karunyasparsham 2021, Agape 2021, Jingle bells and Ukraine mission.