Eparchial Assembly – Day 2 - St. Thomas Syro-Malabar Catholic Eparchy of Chicago

The second day of the Eparchial Assembly commenced with morning prayers and the Holy Qurbana, presided over by Bishop John Nellikkunnel, with additional concelebrants, including Fr. Kurian Neduvelichalumkal and Fr. Joseph Adoppilli. Following the service, participants gathered for breakfast before the day’s formal proceedings began.

The assembly officially opened with a formal inaugural session featuring a series of key activities:

Opening Prayers led by Sr. Amy Emmanuel, set a solemn tone for the day’s events.
Welcome Address delivered by Fr. Thomas Mulavanal, extending greetings and setting the agenda for the session.
Pledge led by Very Rev. Fr. Jacob Christy, fostering unity and commitment among the participants.
Presidential Address by His Excellency Bishop Mar Joy Alappatt, who offered a vision for the assembly’s goals and inspired the attendees.
Lighting of the Lamp symbolized the beginning of the event, marking a dedication to enlightenment and wisdom.
Inaugural Address by Most Reverend Kurt Burnette, who provided insight into the assembly’s theme, followed by words of blessing from His Excellency Bishop Mar Jacob Angadiath.
Felicitation by Rev. Fr. Jerry Mathew, who acknowledged the efforts and contributions of the organizing committee.
Vote of Thanks by Fr. Thomas Kadukappillil, expressing gratitude to all facilitators and attendees.
Syro-Malabar Anthem concluded the inaugural session, symbolizing unity within the faith community.
Following the inaugural session, Fr. John Meleppuram presented an informative session on the Eparchy, discussing its mission, structure, and current initiatives. This was followed by a brief break.

The first session of the day, moderated by Fr. Raphael Ambadan, focused on the “Liturgical Heritage of the Syro Malabar Church.”
Rev. Dr. Pauly Maniyattu delivered an in-depth presentation on the historical and cultural significance of the Church’s liturgical practices.
This was followed by a response from Fr. Ligory Philips Kattiakaren, with further insights from Abin Kuriakose.
The session concluded with the moderator’s final remarks, encapsulating the key points discussed.
After Session 1, attendees were divided into 10 discussion groups.
Each group engaged in discussions on relevant topics, aiming to generate fresh perspectives and actionable insights.
This collaborative activity allowed participants to share personal experiences and reflect on the assembly’s themes.
A lunch break followed the group discussions.

The afternoon began with a communal Rosary in the main hall, uniting participants in prayer.
This was followed by Group Report Presentations, facilitated by Fr. John Thomas Thachara, where each group shared their findings and reflections. An open floor allowed for additional comments and clarifications, leading to a brief summary by the moderator before a scheduled break.

The second primary session of the afternoon addressed “The Renewal of Faith Formation in the Eparchy.” A panel of four experts presented on topics including:
Catechetical Vision of the Universal and Syro Malabar Church – by Mr. Tison Thomas.
Renewal of Catechetical Ministry in the Context of the United States – by Dr. Manoj Abraham.
Role of Parents in Faith Formation – by Mrs. Preethy Thomas.
Role of Catechists in Faith Formation – by Mr. John Palackamattam.
After each presentation, comments and clarifications were encouraged, fostering an open dialogue among participants. The moderator provided a closing summary to encapsulate the main takeaways from the session.
The evening program included a Group Discussion period, where participants once again gathered in their respective groups to explore faith formation topics further. A dinner break followed, allowing for rest and fellowship.
The evening resumed with Ramsa (Evening Prayers) and the final Report Presentation of the day, which included additional time for questions, comments, and concluding remarks by the session moderator. His Excellency Bishop Mar Joy Alappatt offered closing remarks, reiterating the assembly’s vision and encouraging participants to carry forward the day’s learnings.

The day ended with Holy Adoration in the chapel, led by Fr. Sunil VC. This time of worship allowed participants to reflect spiritually on the day’s discussions and activities. The assembly day concluded as participants returned to their rooms.