Kadaplamattom: In a momentous development for the Catholic faithful of the region, the Kadaplamattom Saint Marys Church has been officially raised to the status of a Forona Church under the Syro-Malabar Diocese of Pala. This significant ecclesiastical decision was announced and implemented by His Excellency Mar Joseph Kallarangatt, Bishop of Pala, marking a new chapter in the pastoral journey of this historically vibrant parish.
The decision to elevate Kadaplamattom to a Forona is a recognition of its longstanding spiritual vitality, active lay participation, and its capability to serve as a central hub for surrounding parishes. A Forona Church, within the Syro-Malabar Catholic framework, functions as an intermediate pastoral jurisdiction, coordinating and guiding several parishes in the region under the leadership of a Forona Vicar.
As part of this historic transformation, Father Joseph, who hails from the parish itself and has served the Church with great devotion and pastoral commitment, has been appointed as the Forona Vicar. In a deeply spiritual ceremony held at the Kadaplamattom Church, he was formally installed into his new role, surrounded by clergy, religious, and a large congregation of faithful. The ordination liturgy was presided over by a senior cleric on behalf of Bishop Mar Joseph Kallarangatt.
Speaking after the installation, Fr. Joseph expressed heartfelt gratitude to God and to the Diocese for entrusting him with this new responsibility. "This is not just a personal honor, but a spiritual call to serve the wider Church with even greater commitment. I take this up with humility and trust in the Lord’s grace," he said.
The elevation of Kadaplamattom to a Forona comes at a time when the Diocese of Pala is strategically strengthening its pastoral and administrative structures to better serve its growing population and ensure closer engagement with the faithful. As a Forona Church, Kadaplamattom will now play a leadership role in coordinating liturgical activities, faith formation programs, youth and family ministries, and social outreach across a cluster of neighboring parishes.
The parish community, known for its vibrant spiritual life, rich traditions, and contributions to religious vocations, welcomed the announcement with jubilation. A celebratory gathering followed the official function, featuring hymns, cultural expressions, and messages of support from parishioners, religious leaders, and civil dignitaries from the region.
Faithful from neighboring parishes also joined in the celebrations, reflecting the shared joy and the strong sense of unity among the Syro-Malabar Catholic communities. Many parishioners noted that the new status would further energize their mission work and strengthen cooperation between parishes.
The Diocese of Pala has indicated that in the coming months, additional structures under the Forona will be formalized, including inter-parish coordination councils and pastoral action teams to implement diocesan directives effectively.
The elevation of Kadaplamattam Parish to Forona status is not only a tribute to its spiritual legacy but also a clear indication of its future leadership role in the ecclesial and social mission of the Church. It stands as a symbol of growth, hope, and deeper pastoral outreach in the heart of the Syro-Malabar Church.