Condolences and Prayers for Pope Francis

Monday, April 21, 2025
Condolences and Prayers for Pope Francis
With deep sorrow, we at the St. Thomas Syro-Malabar Catholic Eparchy of Chicago mourn the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis, a shepherd whose life was a testament to humility, compassion, and unwavering service to the most vulnerable among us. Emerging from humble beginnings in Argentina, Pope Francis became a beacon of hope and a catalyst for transformation within the Catholic Church, guiding it with courage, fidelity, and a universal love that transcended boundaries.
His devotion to the poor, his advocacy for migrants and the marginalized, and his passionate call to care for our common home inspired millions across continents and faiths. Through his gentle leadership and pastoral heart, he reminded the world of the Gospel’s call to justice, mercy, and reconciliation. Even in his final days, he offered blessings to the faithful, embodying resilience and grace.
His devotion to the poor, his advocacy for migrants and the marginalized, and his passionate call to care for our common home inspired millions across continents and faiths. Through his gentle leadership and pastoral heart, he reminded the world of the Gospel’s call to justice, mercy, and reconciliation. Even in his final days, he offered blessings to the faithful, embodying resilience and grace.
As we commend his soul to the infinite mercy of the Triune God, we give thanks for his luminous example—a true disciple who taught us to walk humbly, serve generously, and love without measure. May his memory be a blessing, his legacy a guiding light, and may the peace of Christ comfort all who mourn his loss.
Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him.

2025 Syro-Malabar Eucharistic Congress

Join Us May 23 – May 25, 2025 for the First-Ever Eucharistic Congress in the Syro-Malabar Diocese of America

The Eucharistic Congress marks a historic milestone for the Syro-Malabar Diocese of America, being the first event of its kind. This unique, transformative gathering will immerse attendees in the true presence of Christ in the Eucharist, focusing on its deep significance as the source and summit of our faith.

Through Eucharistic miracles from around the world and powerful testimonies of healing, this event will illuminate the profound impact of the Eucharist in the lives of countless faithful. Participants will experience firsthand the transformative power of Christ’s presence and the healing grace He offers through the Holy Sacrament.

As we enter the Jubilee Year of the St. Thomas Syro-Malabar Diocese in the United States, this Eucharistic Congress provides a unique opportunity to unite Syro-Malabar Catholics across the nation in faith, love, and devotion. By encountering Christ in the Eucharist, we renew our commitment to the missionary spirit of the Church, strengthening our collective resolve to spread the Gospel of Christ and share His love with others.

This event is not only a spiritual enrichment for all who attend but also an important step in the growth of our Diocese in America. It will lay the foundation for future growth, deepen our connection with Christ, and empower us to continue the mission of faith in the world.

Learn More About the Eucharistic Congress

Eparchial Assembly – Day 4

Thursday, October 31, 2024
Eparchial Assembly 2024 – Day 4
The fourth day of the Eparchial Assembly commenced with the Sapra and Holy Qurbana in English, led by Bishop Mar Joy Alappatt, with assistance from Fr. Thomas Pulickal and Fr. Rajeev Valyaveettil. Following this, participants gathered for breakfast.
The assembly anthem set the tone for the day’s proceedings. A presentation on the Eparchial Survey was delivered by George Nellikunnel, providing insights into recent findings and data.
The logo for the Syro-Malabar USA Diocesan Eucharistic Congress was released. The congress will be held from May 23 to May 25, 2025 at St. Thomas Syro-Malabar Catholic Forane Church in Somerset, NJ.
This was followed by an open session titled “Syro Hour,” where twenty participants shared their perspectives in brief three-minute contributions. A concluding remark by the moderators encapsulated the key points from the discussions.
A photo session was organized, coordinated by Fr. Abraham Mutholath, allowing attendees to capture memories of the event before taking a short break.
The Concluding Ceremony then began with an opening prayer led by Fr. Joshy Kochukudiyattil, followed by a welcome address by Fr. Johnson Koovoor Puthenpura. Bishop Mar Joy Alappatt delivered the Presidential Address, while Most Reverend A. Elias Zaidan provided the Inaugural Address. Bishop Mar Jacob Angadiath shared words of wisdom to inspire and motivate the participants.
Fr. George Danavelli presented the Statement of the Eparchial Assembly, which summarized the assembly’s outcomes and resolutions. This was followed by a sharing session, where four participants representing the community members, reflected on their experiences and learnings from the assembly. Aisha Lawrence, the Secretary of the Pastoral Council, gave the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to everyone involved.
The day concluded with the singing of the Syro Malabar Anthem. Participants then gathered for lunch before departing, marking the end of the assembly.

Eparchial Assembly – Day 3

Wednesday, October 30, 2024
Eparchial Assembly 2024 – Day 3
The Eparchial Assembly commenced with Sapra and Holy Qurbana, where the main celebrant was Mar Jacob Angadiath, and concelebrants were Fr. Abraham Mutholath and Fr. Johnson Kovoorputhenpurayil. Following the morning worship, participants enjoyed breakfast. The Assembly Anthem was performed to mark the start of the formal proceedings.
Session 3 began with a prayer led by Sr. Meera, after which Fr. Joseph Panthaplamthottiyil CMI acted as the moderator for the session. Following this, a book – the biography of Bishop Angadiath was released. The session then continued with an exploration of the identity of Eastern Churches and their mission in the United States, presented by Philipose Mar Stephanos. Rev. Dr. Pauly Maniyattil followed with insights into the liturgical and spiritual identity of the Syro Malabar Church. Dr. Jaisy Joseph provided a response from the participants, and Fr. Rajeev Philip shared further reflections.
Participants were then grouped for discussions, after which a group discussion session facilitated further sharing of insights. Tessie Alappatt moderated the presentation of the report, and the floor was opened for comments and clarifications, with concluding remarks provided by the moderator.
After a lunch break, participants gathered for the Rosary. The focus then shifted to Session 4, centered on empowering the Syro Malabar Community. The panel presentation covered various aspects, including family life, professional life, politics, social life, and parish life, with contributions from Jeslyn Methippara, Dr. Varghese Maliekkal, Anish Simon, and Fr. Thomas Kadukappillil. Following this, the floor was opened again for comments and discussions, and the moderator provided concluding remarks.
Participants were then organized into groups for further discussions, with Cijoy Cyriac presenting the report. Comments and clarifications were invited, providing an open forum for additional insights.
After a dinner break, Ramsa marked the evening prayer. The final session, Session 5, addressed the second phase of the Eparchy. Moderated by Andrews Thomas, the panelists discussed structural developments, evangelical techies, vocation promotion, youth and young adults, and care for the seniors. Contributions came from Fr. Kurian Neduvilechalumkal, Manuel Joseph, Fr. Joby Joseph, Fr. Melvin Paul Mangalath, and George Joseph Kottukappally. Following the panel presentations, the floor was opened for comments, allowing participants to share further additions and reflections.
The session concluded with remarks from the moderator and Bishop Mar Joy Alappat. To close the day, the night prayers Leliya was prayed, followed by a lively and competitive game by the participants before they retired for the night.

Eparchial Assembly – Day 2

Tuesday, October 29, 2024
Eparchial Assembly 2024 – Day 2
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.
Inaugural Session
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.
Session 1: Liturgical Heritage of the Syro-Malabar Church
  • 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.
Afternoon Sessions
  • 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.
Session 2: Renewal of Faith Formation in the Eparchy
  • 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.
Concluding Worship and Adoration
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.

Eparchial Assembly – Day 1

Monday, October 28, 2024
Eparchial Assembly 2024 – Day 1
The first day of the Eparchial Assembly began with registration and a communal dinner, followed by a period of preparation for the Holy Qurbana.
The Holy Qurbana was celebrated in the Main Chapel by Bishop Mar Joy Alappatt along with other clergy.
Afterward, participants gathered in the main hall for a welcome address by Fr. John Meleppuram.
This was followed by a session led by Fr. George Danavelil on the dynamics and objectives of the assembly.
An icebreaker activity, featuring self-introductions, was facilitated by Fr. Bins Chethalil and Fr. Melvin Mangalath, allowing participants to connect with each other.
The day concluded with Leliya, the night prayer, providing time for quiet reflection before the close of the evening.

Eparchial Assembly 2024 – Announcement

Upcoming Event
Eparchial Assembly 2024
It is with great joy that I am looking forward to our upcoming Eparchial Assembly, which will take place from October 28th to October 31st at the beautiful Mundelein Seminary in Chicago, IL.
This Second Eparchial Assembly gathering of over a hundred delegates from different areas of our diocesan ministries, is a significant moment for our Eparchy. Our delegates will consist of bishops, priests, religious, and a laity, that spans youth to seniors, each offering essential contributions through their unique perspectives. This rich diversity enables us to draw on the energy and fresh ideas of our youth, the engagement of our adults, the wisdom and experience of our senior members, and the spiritual guidance of our clergy and religious, all working together to strengthen our mission and outreach.
I am deeply grateful to all the Syro-Malabar Catholics in United States for their commitment to the Syro-Malabar Church and especially of all those who are going to be there for this Eparchial Assembly. It is my hope that these days will be filled with meaningful discussions, thoughtful sharing and a renewed sense of purpose, inspired by the love of Christ and the traditions of our Syro-Malabar heritage.
Please join me in prayer, as we prepare for this assembly, asking the Holy Spirit to guide our hearts and minds so that our efforts may bear fruit. I am filled with joy and anticipation to be with all the participants, to learn from you and to walk this journey together in faith.
Sincerely,
Mar Joy Alappatt
Bishop, St. Thomas Syro Malabar Eparchy of Chicago
Official letter from Bishop Mar Joy Alappatt

Vestition & First Profession of Abhishekagni Sisters of Jesus and Mary Monastery


Dear Reverend Fathers, Sisters, and Brethren in Christ,

We extend a warm invitation to join us for the Vestition and First Profession ceremony of:

  • Novice Melvy George (Daughter of George Thomas and Gracy George) from Old Bethpage, NY
  • Novice Binit Anna Joseph (Daughter of Joseph Abraham and Ancy Joseph) from Tampa, FL
  • Novice Mary Chazhikattu (Daughter of Siri Chazhikatt and Reny) from Tampa, FL


    • Date: October 7, 2023
    Time: 10:00 AM
    Location: Mar Thomas Sleeha Cathedral, 5000 St. Charles Road, Bellwood, IL 60104

    The ceremony will be presided over by Mar Joy Alappatt, Bishop of the St. Thomas Syro Malabar Eparchy of Chicago.

    Your esteemed presence and prayers on this joyous occasion would be greatly appreciated.

    Episcopal Installation of Bishop Mar Joy Alappatt

    The Holy Father, Pope Francis, has appointed Most Rev. Bishop Mar Joy Alappatt, current Auxiliary Bishop of the St. Thomas Syro-Malabar Catholic Diocese of Chicago, as the next Bishop of the St. Thomas Syro-Malabar Catholic Eparchy of Chicago on July 3, 2022. The appointment was communicated by Archbishop Christophe Pierre, Apostolic Nuncio to the United States on July 3, 2022. 

    About Bishop Mar Joy Alappatt

    Bishop Mar Joy Alappatt was born at Parappukara, in Thrissur district, Kerala, India, on September 27, 1956, as the second son of the late Mr. Varghese and late Mrs. Rosy Alappatt. He has two brothers and two sisters. His baptismal name is John, and he is named after the patron saint of his parish, St. John Nepomucene. He was commonly known as Joy Alappatt. He had his primary school education at St. George Lower Primary School, Puthenpally, Varapuzha; his Upper Primary School at A.U.P.S., Parappukkara, and his high school at P.V.S. High School, Parapukkara.

    After his high school studies, in 1972, he joined the St. Mary’s Minor Seminary, Thope, Thrissur. He completed his major seminary studies at St. Thomas Apostolic Seminary, Vadavathoor, Kottayam, and was ordained by Mar James Pazhayattil on December 31, 1981, for the diocese of Irinjalakuda. He served as Assistant Parish Priest at Chalakudy, Mala, and St. Thomas Cathedral, Irinjalakuda. He earned his Masters in Theology from St. Joseph’s Pontifical Institute, Aluva. He completed his Masters in Sociology from Andhra University. He served as a Chaplain and Mission Director of the Syro-Malabar community in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India, for six years, from 1987 to 1993.

     He came to the United States in 1994 and served as Associate Pastor in the Archdiocese of New York and the Diocese of Newark. He completed his Clinical Pastoral Education Program and worked as a certified Priest Chaplain at Georgetown University, Washington, DC. Mar Jacob Angadiath invited him in 2001 to serve in the St. Thomas Syro-Malabar Catholic Diocese of Chicago, and he was appointed as the Director of Syro-Malabar Mission in the region of New Jersey and later appointed as the Administrator of Our Lady of Sorrows Church, Garfield. He was the Convener of the Syro-Malabar National Convention 2003, New Jersey. In 2011 he was appointed as the Pastor (Vicar) of the Mar Thoma Sleeha Syro-Malabar Catholic Cathedral, in Chicago, Illinois. While he has been serving as the pastor of the Mar Thoma Sleeha Syro-Malabar Catholic Cathedral, on July 24, 2014, Holy Father Pope Francis appointed Rev. Fr. Joy Alappatt as the Auxiliary Bishop of St. Thomas Syro-Malabar Catholic Diocese of Chicago and also as the titular bishop of the see of Bencenna. On September 27, 2014, was his Episcopal Ordination.

    Bishop Joy Alappatt is a known retreat preacher, orator, musician, and influential pastor with efficient administrative skills. He has written lyrics for several Christian devotional songs and published a few music albums.

    On July 03, 2022, by accepting the resignation of Bishop Mar Jacob Angadiath, Pope Francis appointed Bishop Mar Joy Alappatt as the bishop of the St. Thomas Syro-Malabar Catholic Eparchy of Chicago.

    Our Hearty Congratulations, Prayers, and Wishes!

    Syro-Malabar Church App Launches

    The first-ever Syro-Malabar Catholic Church App launches with Holy Qurbana text in English and Malayalam for enhanced worship experience.

    KEY FEATURES OF THE SYRO-MALABAR CATHOLIC CHURCH APP:

    • Bilingual Convenience: Seamlessly switch between English and Malayalam text with a single touch.
    • Daily Syro Malabar Liturgy Readings (2013-2020): Access liturgical readings from the Syro Malabar Rite’s 2013-2020 calendar in both Malayalam (POC Version) and English (Catholic Public Domain Version).
    • Qurbana (Holy Mass) Text: Experience the complete Syro Malabar Rite Qurbana (Holy Mass) text in both English and Malayalam, with the ability to select your user type as Celebrant or Participant.
    • Qurbana Intro Page: Enjoy visually captivating representations of the Qurbana intro page tailored to major feast days or saints’ days.
    • Seasonal Selection: The app automatically adjusts the liturgical season of the Syro-Malabar Church based on your device’s date, ensuring that the mass text is always up to date. However, users also have the flexibility to manually select a different season, if desired.