Lisbon- In preparation for the World Youth Summit, the Syro-Malabar Fest has commenced in Fatima, receiving an enthusiastic response from pilgrims.
The festival, organized by the 'Syro-Malabar Youth Movement Combined Mission' from dioceses of Syro-Malabar outside India, is being held from July 26 to 31 in Minde, near Fatima, the site of Our Lady's apparition.
Participation in the festival has been robust, with over 300 attendees from Syro-Malabar Dioceses in Chicago (USA), Mississauga (Canada), Melbourne (Australia), Great Britain (UK), and the Syro-Malabar Apostolic Visitation in Europe.
Prominent bishops like Mar Joy Allapat (Chicago), Mar Jose Kalluvelil (Mississauga), Mar Joseph Srampical (Great Britain), Mar Bosco Puthur (Melbourne - Emeritus), and Bishop of Europe Mar Stephen Chirapanath are actively participating in the event. Mar Bosco Puttur is representing Syro-Malabar Major Archbishop Cardinal Mar George Alencherry.
The highlight of the festival is the pilgrimage to Fatima Basilica, located 12 km from Minde town. On the 28th, the young pilgrims will visit Fatima Sannidhi at 10.00 am, where Mar Bosco Puthur will preside over the Divine Sacrifice, the first Mass to be offered in the Syro-Malabar Rosary at Fatima. The program also includes the Way of the Cross prayer and arrangements for confession, offering a spiritually enriching experience for the participants.
On the 29th, the youth will spend time with over 10,000 young people from Leyra Diocese, engaging in cultural events that celebrate the Syro-Malabar heritage. The festival aims to foster a sense of community and spiritual growth, creating an atmosphere of shared values and traditions.
The 30th will feature the Divine Liturgy, with young priests from the U.S., who received their training in the Diocese of Chicago, offering the Eucharist. The day will include sessions showcasing the Syro-Malabar Church's missionary zeal and cultural programs introducing the rich Syro-Malabar tradition to their hosts.
Following the Mass on July 31, the youth community will come together and travel to the World Youth Summit in Lisbon, further strengthening their bond and commitment to their faith.
Overall, the Syro-Malabar Fest in Fatima promises to be an inspiring and memorable event, empowering young people to deepen their faith and build strong connections with their global Syro-Malabar community.