Brisbane, Australia: “Today’s Church belongs to the youth. They find it a welcoming place” said Bishop Mar Joseph Pandarasseril, the Auxiliary Bishop of the Archeparchy of Kottayam, while inaugurating the mega music, dance and comedy show organised by St Thomas the Apostle Syro Malabar parish, Brisbane South in Australia on Saturday, 14th October 2023.

The event was organised at the sports hall of Marsden State High School with over 900 people in attendance in order to raise funds for building a new church for the parish. Mar Pandarasseril reiterated that the construction of a new church is aimed at providing a permanent worship space to today’s youth and the future generations in a world that witnesses rapid faith erosion.

The Bishop further stated, “The youth will hold a special place in Church where they will find opportunities to develop their faith in creative ways”. The event witnessed the rendition of a repertoire of Malayalam songs from folk to popular genres, sung by the king of melodies and devotional music Biju Narayanan, Kalabhavan Prajod and Elizabeth Raju. The renowned dancer and actor, Devi Chandana impressed the audience with her captivating dance performances and comedy skits co-performed by Prajod.

The show was directed by Lizy K Fernandez, the CEO of CNews and a member of Kerala Catholic Media Commission.

Welcoming the guests and patrons, the parish vicar Fr Abraham Nadukunnel explained the purpose of the event and assured a night of family entertainment. He thanked all the parishioners, extended Kerala community and the generous sponsors for their support and hard work.