Perth: The St Joseph Syro Malabar Parish in Perth will host its inaugural community empowerment seminar on November 8 as part of the Syro Malabar Church’s 2026 Year of Community Empowerment program.

The seminar, titled “Rebuild the Church through My Ministry,” will take place from 10.30 a.m. to 1.30 p.m. at the parish. Parish vicar Father Ajith Cheriyekkara will inaugurate the event, which aims to strengthen the unity and active participation of parish members through various ministries.

Father John Puthu, director of the Catholic Congress of the Melbourne Eparchy, will lead the main session. Assistant vicar Father Bibin Velamparambil will also take part in the program.

Representatives from different parish organizations including the Catholic Congress, Mathruvedhi, Pithruvedhi, Syro Malabar Youth Movement, Young Couples Ministry, Evangelisation Ministry, Nurses Ministry, and the Catechism Department will attend the seminar. Participants will take part in group discussions to plan and coordinate activities for the coming year.

The organizing committee includes President Prakash Joseph, Secretary Royce Poikayil, Joint Secretary Risen Jose, Vice President Mathew Mathai, Treasurer Sijo Augustine, and program coordinators Janosh Sebastian, Shinoj Chacko, Albert Thomas, and Maju Thomas.

The seminar marks the beginning of a year-long effort to encourage leadership, service, and faith-based community development among parish members. It is expected to inspire participants to contribute actively to rebuilding and strengthening parish life through their respective ministries.