Kottayam: The official proclamation of the beatification of the Servant of God Mar Mathew Makil will take place this Saturday, July 26, at 9:30 a.m. during a solemn celebration at Christ the King Cathedral, Kottayam. The occasion also marks the conclusion of the 50th death anniversary observances of Mar Thomas Tharayil.
The Holy Eucharist will be presided over by Kottayam Archbishop Mar Mathew Moolakkat, with Major Archbishop of the Syro-Malabar Church, Mar Raphael Thattil, inaugurating the ceremony by lighting the lamp and delivering the keynote message prior to the liturgy.
Auxiliary Bishops Mar Joseph Pandarasseril and Geevarghese Mar Aprem, along with numerous priests from the Archdiocese, will join as co-celebrants in the sacramental gathering. Members of religious congregations, leaders of various church organizations, and faithful from across the parishes will also participate in the occasion.
Mar Mathew Makil, who was declared Blessed by Pope Leo XIV on May 22, served as the first Vicar Apostolic of both the Changanassery and Kottayam Vicariates eventually entrusted to the Thekkumbhagar community. He is also the founder of the Visitation Congregation of Sisters. A pioneer in religious and general education, Mar Makeel was known for championing the monastic vocation and working tirelessly to uplift the poor and marginalized in society.