Chicago: In a historic and spiritually uplifting moment for the Syro-Malabar Catholic community in the United States, Major Archbishop Mar Raphael Thattil arrived in Chicago to a grand reception, marking his first pastoral visit to the region since assuming the highest office in the Syro-Malabar Church. His presence also signals the formal launch of the Silver Jubilee celebrations of the St. Thomas Syro-Malabar Diocese of Chicago, commemorating 25 years of its founding.

The jubilee inauguration and episcopal welcome were held at the St. Thomas Syro-Malabar Cathedral in Bellwood, Illinois. Hundreds of faithful, clergy, and community leaders gathered for a solemn Holy Qurbana led by the Major Archbishop, followed by a ceremonial public meeting. The event was deeply symbolic, uniting the diaspora community in worship, gratitude, and renewed spiritual commitment.

Major Archbishop Thattil, a church leader from Kerala, India, was elected in January 2024 to lead the global Syro-Malabar Church. Known for his pastoral vision and unifying approach, he previously served as the first bishop of the Diocese of Shamshabad and has been instrumental in fostering growth among diaspora communities. His Chicago visit underscores the Church’s growing global identity and the significance of its diaspora in America.

The Silver Jubilee year aims to reflect on the Diocese’s journey since its establishment in 2001, highlighting milestones in evangelization, cultural preservation, and community development across North America. The inaugural program was organized under the leadership of Cathedral Vicar Fr. Thomas Kadukappally, Assistant Vicar Rev. Fr. Joel Payas, and a coordinating committee involving clergy and lay members.

In his address, Mar Raphael Thattil praised the vibrant witness of faith shown by the Syro-Malabar community in the U.S. and emphasized the Church’s mission of communion, service, and evangelization. “Let this Jubilee Year not just be a remembrance of the past, but a commitment to build a future rooted in Christ, wherever we are in the world,” he said.

The day’s events marked both a spiritual homecoming and a call to action for the faithful, as the diocese looks ahead to further growth while remaining anchored in its Eastern Catholic heritage. The Silver Jubilee celebrations will continue throughout the year with liturgical events, cultural programs, and service projects across various parishes under the Diocese.

This momentous visit by the Major Archbishop will long be remembered as a blessing for the Syro-Malabar faithful in North America and a milestone in the Church’s ever-expanding spiritual mission.