Kalyan: In a historic moment for the Syro-Malabar Church, Archbishop Mar Sebastian Vaniyapurackal was installed as the first Archbishop of the newly elevated Archdiocese of Kalyan in Maharashtra on Sunday. The solemn installation ceremony and proclamation took place at St. Thomas Cathedral, Kalyan West, marking a new chapter in the Church’s mission among the Syro-Malabar faithful in western India.
The Holy Mass, which began at 2:30 p.m., was presided over by Major Archbishop Mar Raphael Thattil, head of the Syro-Malabar Church. Cardinal Oswald Gracias, Archbishop of Bombay, delivered the homily, reflecting on the importance of unity, service, and pastoral leadership in a multicultural and migrant context such as Kalyan’s.
The elevation of the Kalyan Diocese to an Archdiocese and the installation of its first Archbishop was hailed as a milestone in the growth of the Syro-Malabar Church outside Kerala. Archbishop Mar Sebastian Vaniyapurackal, who had previously served with dedication in various pastoral and administrative capacities, took canonical possession of the Archdiocese amid prayers and applause from clergy and laity alike.
Following the liturgical installation, a general assembly was held to bid farewell to the outgoing bishop, Mar Thomas Elavanal, who had shepherded the Eparchy of Kalyan for over two decades. Speakers at the event praised his visionary leadership, pastoral zeal, and contributions to strengthening faith among Syro-Malabar Catholics in Maharashtra and beyond.
Around 35 bishops, numerous priests, consecrated men and women, and lay representatives from across India and abroad attended the ceremony. Among the participants were Bishop Mar Jose Pulikkal of Kanjirappally, Mar Mathew Arakkal, and senior diocesan officials including Rev. Dr. Joseph Vellamattom, Rev. Dr. Sebastian Kollamkunnel, Fr. Philip Thadathil, Rev. Dr. James Thalachelloor, Fr. Stanley Pullolikal, and Fr. Varghese Manjakuzhakunnel.
Family members, parish representatives, and community leaders also joined the celebration, turning the cathedral courtyard into a vibrant gathering of faith and fellowship. Hymns, prayers, and traditional Syro-Malabar liturgical chants filled the air as the faithful welcomed their new shepherd with joy and gratitude.
In his address, Archbishop Mar Sebastian Vaniyapurackal expressed deep gratitude to God, to the Holy See, and to the Syro-Malabar Synod for entrusting him with this new responsibility. He acknowledged the sacrifices of migrant Catholics who have carried their faith across generations in Maharashtra and pledged to lead the archdiocese with humility, compassion, and missionary zeal.
“This moment is not mine alone it belongs to every believer who has built the Church of Kalyan through prayer, perseverance, and love,” Archbishop Vaniyapurackal said. “Together, we will continue to proclaim Christ’s message of unity and service in a changing world.”
The creation of the Archdiocese of Kalyan is expected to enhance pastoral coordination, missionary outreach, and formation programs for Syro-Malabar Catholics across western India. With this historic installation, the Church reaffirmed its commitment to serving the spiritual and social needs of its growing community beyond Kerala’s borders.
The day concluded with a thanksgiving hymn and blessing, as the congregation rejoiced in witnessing a defining moment in the continuing story of the Syro-Malabar Church in India.