Kakkanad: Major Archbishop Mar Raphael Thattil of the Syro-Malabar Church has issued a post-synodal circular addressing bishops, priests, consecrated persons, and all the faithful entrusted to his pastoral care. The message follows the conclusion of the 33rd Synod of Bishops of the Church, held from August 18 to 29, 2025, at Mount St. Thomas, Kakkanad.
The Synod began by paying homage to Pope Francis, whose passing earlier this year deeply touched the global Catholic community, while also welcoming Pope Leo XIV, who has articulated a clear vision for the mission of the Eastern Churches. Despite challenges and difficulties, the Archbishop reminded the faithful that the Church is called to tireless dedication in carrying out its entrusted mission.
Mar Raphael Thattil highlighted that religious freedom is an essential part of India’s culture and Constitution. He condemned discriminatory practices and restrictions on Christian missionaries, clergy, and religious in some regions, noting that these violate fundamental rights. He reaffirmed the Church’s pride in its missionaries who, inspired by Christ’s love, dedicate their lives to service in education, health care, and social upliftment.
The Archbishop reiterated the importance of unity in the celebration of the Holy Qurbana (Eucharist). He emphasized that the Synod, with approval from the Holy See, has mandated a unified mode of Eucharistic celebration across the Syro-Malabar Church, which must remain unchanged. He expressed gratitude to dioceses and parishes that have already implemented the unified liturgy and called upon all to embrace reconciliation, reminding them that “unity is not merely good advice but a duty,” echoing Pope Francis’ words.
Acknowledging recent instances of disrespect towards the Holy Qurbana, the Archbishop called the faithful to deepen their devotion. He announced that on Friday, September 12, 2025, the entire Syro-Malabar Church will hold one hour of Eucharistic adoration as an act of reparation and renewal of faith.
Reflecting on the global synodal processes held in Rome in 2023 and 2024, Mar Raphael stressed the importance of synodality — walking together, listening, and fostering dialogue. He urged dioceses to continue implementing participatory initiatives that strengthen community life.
Recognizing social and demographic challenges, including migration of youth abroad and declining numbers, the Archbishop declared 2026 as the Year of Community Empowerment. Programs will focus on awareness-building, strengthening community identity, and promoting social upliftment.
Marking a milestone in the Church’s growth, four new metropolitan provinces have been erected outside Kerala: Faridabad, Ujjain, Kalyan, and Shamshabad. Their new metropolitans — Mar Kuriakose Bharanikulangara, Mar Sebastian Vadakel, Mar Sebastian Vaniyappurackal, and Mar Prince Antony Panengaden — received prayers and best wishes from the Synod.
The Archbishop also extended congratulations and gratitude to the newly appointed bishops. Mar Sebastian Vaniyappurackal has been appointed as Metropolitan Archbishop of Kalyan. Fr. James Patteril will serve as the new Bishop of Belthangady, while Fr. Joseph Thachaparambath CMI takes charge as Bishop of Adilabad. He also thanked outgoing bishops Mar Thomas Elavanal, Mar Lawrence Mukkuzhy, and Mar Prince Antony Panengaden for their decades of dedicated service.
Finally, Mar Raphael Thattil reminded the faithful that the Syro-Malabar Church, as an ancient Eastern Church, must safeguard its liturgical and spiritual heritage while serving the universal Church. Quoting Pope Leo XIV, he stressed that Eastern traditions, rich in mystery and beauty, should not be abandoned for convenience.
The circular concluded with a call to remain steadfast in faith, drawing strength from the Word of God and the sacraments, while seeking the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, St. Joseph, St. Thomas the Apostle, and all the saints. The message was released from the Major Archbishop’s office at Mount St. Thomas, Kakkanad, on August 29, 2025.