The Syro-Malabar Catholic Christians in Ireland, who hail from the South Indian state Kerala, pilgrimaged on 6th May to the Knock Shrine to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the installation of the church in Ireland. The Syro-Malabar Church, an ancient church of Indian origin, is a Major Archepiscopal Church in full communion with the Pope of Roman Catholic Church.
A holy mass was observed and a magnificent procession was held in connection with the event at Knock’s Marian Basilica. Church members from thirty-three centres in Ireland from Belfast to Cork have gathered at the Marian shrine apart from many other pilgrim groups. The holy sacraments were observed by a group of priests led by Apostolic Visitator for Europe Bishop Mar Chirappanath.
Bishop Mar Stephen Chirappanath and Fr Cherian Varikkatt, who is the Apostolic Visitation Co-ordinator and Vicar for Syro-Malabar Church Rome, jointly lit the ceremonial lamp with other church representatives to initiate the commemorative celebrations.
Bishop Mar Stephen Chirappanath released the memorial book for the 10th anniversary of the church in Ireland.
The holly mass was followed by a colourful procession from the Marian Basilica to the Apparition Chapel.
In his speech, Bishop Chirapanath has said that the blessings given to the Syro-Malabar church members in Ireland prove God’s presence.
Syro Malabar Church National Coordinator Mon. Fr. Antony Perumayan (Belfast), Fr. Paul Morely (Belfast), Fr Joseph Karukayil (Derry), Fr. Antony Chiramvelil (Dublin), Fr. Sebastian Arakkal (Cork), Fr. Robin Thomas (Limerick), Fr Reji Cheruvamkalayil MCBS (Longford) and several other priests participated in the sacraments.
The well-arranged celebrations were organized under the leadership of Fr. Jose Bharanikulangara (Dublin).