Priests Koinonia 2025

Priests Koinonia 2025 stands as a landmark moment in the history of the Syro-Malabar Church in the United States. For the first time ever, more than 200 Malayalee priests, serving across various dioceses, parishes, institutions, and ministries throughout the United States, came together for a unified gathering of priestly fraternity and shared mission.

Held on November 18–19, 2025, in Coral Springs (Miami), Florida, this historic assembly was far more than a scheduled event. It was the realization of a long-cherished dream—to bring together all Malayalee priests serving in the USA into one genuine Koinonia, rooted in faith, mutual support, and ecclesial unity. While invitations were extended to over 500 Malayalee priests, nearly 200 priests responded and participated, offering a powerful testimony to the spirit of communion that binds the Syro-Malabar presbyterate.

The Priests Koinonia 2025 was jointly organized by the St. Thomas Syro-Malabar Diocese of Chicago and the Our Lady of Health Syro-Malabar Forane Parish, Coral Springs (Miami), Florida. This gathering was further enriched by being integrated with the Syro-Malabar Diocesan Presbyterium 2025, which extended over four days, providing opportunities for prayer, reflection, dialogue, and pastoral planning. The success of this historic event was made possible by the generous involvement of the faithful of Our Lady of Health Forane Parish, under the able leadership of their Pastor, Rev. Fr. George Elambassery. Parishioners contributed wholeheartedly through their time, talents, and resources, transforming the gathering into a true celebration of faith and unity.

Held on November 18–19, 2025, in Coral Springs (Miami), Florida, this historic assembly was far more than a scheduled event. It was the realization of a long-cherished dream—to bring together all Malayalee priests serving in the USA into one genuine Koinonia, rooted in faith, mutual support, and ecclesial unity. While invitations were extended to over 500 Malayalee priests, nearly 200 priests responded and participated, offering a powerful testimony to the spirit of communion that binds the Syro-Malabar presbyterate.

Priests Koinonia 2025 was graced by the presence and leadership of eminent shepherds of the Church:

• Archbishop Mar Thomas Wenski, Archdiocese of Miami
• Bishop Mar William Wack, Diocese of Pensacola–Tallahassee
• Bishop Mar Joy Alappatt, Bishop of the St. Thomas Syro-Malabar Diocese of Chicago
• Bishop Emeritus Mar Jacob Angadiath, Founding Bishop and first shepherd of the Diocese of Chicago

Their presence underscored the ecclesial importance of the gathering and offered profound encouragement to the priests assembled.

The primary purpose of Priests Koinonia 2025 was to strengthen the bonds of fraternity among Malayalee priests serving across the United States. It sought to encourage the younger generation of clergy, reaffirm a shared Syro-Malabar identity, and instill a renewed sense of pride in the rich apostolic heritage of the Syro-Malabar Church.

This gathering also served as a powerful witness to the local Church and the wider Catholic community—demonstrating unity, collaboration, and the vibrant life of an Eastern Catholic tradition flourishing in the American context.

The main celebrations were held at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church, whose collaboration—together with the Syro-Malabar community of Our Lady of Health Parish—made the event a true celebration of unity in Christ.

The solemn Syro-Malabar Holy Qurbana, celebrated with full traditional vestments, stood at the heart of the gathering. Bishop Mar Joy Alappatt served as the Principal Celebrant, and the homily was delivered by Archbishop Mar Thomas Wenski, offering a message of encouragement, unity, and missionary zeal.

The liturgical celebrations were enriched by traditional elements, including Chendamelam, Thalapoli, and floral welcomes, symbolizing the beauty of Syro-Malabar heritage, while the Knights of Columbus provided a dignified honor guard for the procession.

A special moment of gratitude and recognition honored Bishop Emeritus Mar Jacob Angadiath and six priest jubilarians, acknowledging their years of faithful priestly service.

The public meeting and evening celebration featured a Jubilee Song and a vibrant cultural program presented by over 150 parishioners of Our Lady of Health Forane Parish, coordinated by Jojo Vathielil and Siji Denny. These programs reflected the living faith, cultural richness, and unity of the Syro-Malabar community.

The public program was guided by Deepa Sebastian as Master of Ceremonies, with addresses by Church leaders and organizers, including words of welcome, blessing, felicitation, and thanksgiving.

On the following day, Holy Qurbana was celebrated at Our Lady of Health Forane Church, followed by an inspiring address by Bishop Mar William Wack, who spoke directly to the gathered Malayalee priests, offering pastoral wisdom and encouragement.

A group photograph and a fellowship boat trip along Miami Beach provided moments of joy, relaxation, and brotherhood, strengthening bonds beyond formal sessions. The Diocesan Presbyterium continued until Thursday noon, concluding the gathering in a spirit of prayerful discernment.

Priests Koinonia 2025 will be remembered as a defining moment of communion and renewal in the life of the Syro-Malabar Church in the United States. As the diocese journeys through its Jubilee Year, this gathering renews the resolve of its priests to walk together in faith, fraternity, and mission, faithfully serving the Church and bearing witness to Christ in unity and love.