The installation ceremony for Major Archbishop Mar Raphael Thattil of the Syro-Malabar Church took place at the Major Archiepiscopal Curia of the Church in Mount St Thomas, Kakkanad, on Thursday.
The Hebrew word 'Raphael,' signifies one who heals and brings peace, said Mar Joseph Pamplany, Archbishop of Thalassery Archdiocese and Secretary of the Syro-Malabar Synod, and Chairman of the Media Commission, during the installation ceremony of the new Major Archbishop of the Syro-Malabar Church, Mar Raphael Thattil.
The installation ceremony of Major Archbishop, took place at the Major Archiepiscopal Curia of the Church in Mount St Thomas, Kakkanad, on Thursday.
He stated that the Church's journey through the desert is completed; she has to now cross the Jordan River with confidence, keeping in mind that the land of Canaan is within sight and reach.
With courage to face challenges, Mar Joseph Pamplany expressed hope and encouragement for the Syro-Malabar Church's journey that lay ahead.
Mar Joseph Pamplany, also emphasized the significance of having a bishop who is a symbol of healing and happiness during these challenging times. He mentioned that the Church has progressed through challenging paths and accepted tribulations to grow, and it is through sufferings that the Church flourishes.
The term 'Raphael' in Hebrew signifies the one who heals and brings happiness. This is what is required for the Church during this period, and that's why Major Archbishop Mar Raphael Thattil was appointed as the Major Archbishop, a position that symbolizes the healing and peacr needed for the Church. Mar Joseph Pamplany expressed optimism and a message of hope during the ceremony, stating that Mar Raphael's elevation as the Major Archbishop is a fortunate event. He also conveyed that it is a dream and a desire for the Church to continue progressing with unity and divine support.
The uniqueness of the bishop lies in his ability to communicate with the heart. Mar Joseph Pamplany stressed the special role a bishop plays in fostering the faith of the believers. He mentioned that a bishop is a messenger of peace, and it is through the bishop that the presence of the Holy Spirit is felt. The bishop, as a messenger of peace, bears witness to the divine anointing of the Holy Spirit.
Drawing a parallel with the life of Christ, Mar Joseph Pamplany highlighted that Christ was a revolutionary who touched lives with healing hands. The Church, just like the early Christian community, needs bishops who can bring healing to the community and serve as a source of strength for the believers. He also mentioned that the bishop should be seen as the ambassador of Christ, providing a testimony to the divine call of consecration.
The faith of the Church is built on the foundation of trust and belief in the bishop. Mar Joseph Pamplany emphasized that the bishop's role is crucial in leading the Church through the challenges, and it is the bishop's deep faith and unwavering love that will guide the Church towards heavenly realms. The consecration of a bishop is not just a ritual but a divine testimony to the sanctity of the bishop's mission.
Mar Joseph Pamplany encouraged everyone to pray for the Church, believing that with God, nothing is impossible.