Kochi: The Syro-Malabar Catholic Church has warmly conveyed its prayers and blessings to the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church following the appointment of two new bishops by Pope Leo XIV. The gesture highlighted the deep bonds of fraternity shared by the two Eastern Catholic Churches in India, both of which trace their roots to the apostolic traditions of St. Thomas.
The papal announcement, made during the 95th Annual General Assembly of the Syro-Malankara Church, named Rev. Fr. Kuriakose Thomas Thadathil as Apostolic Visitor for Europe and Rev. Fr. John Kuttiyil as Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Thiruvananthapuram.
In response, the Syro-Malabar Church extended its heartfelt wishes, expressing joy and solidarity at this moment of grace. “We offer our prayers and blessings to the newly appointed bishops as they begin their mission of service and leadership,” the message noted.
The Syro-Malabar Church’s words of encouragement underscore the unity of the Catholic communion in India, where the two Churches, though distinct in liturgical tradition, often walk hand in hand in addressing the pastoral needs of the faithful and the challenges of modern society.
Faithful from both Churches welcomed the announcement, seeing it as a sign of renewal and growth not only for the Malankara Catholic community but also for the wider Catholic presence in India and abroad.