The Hilton Parsippany in New Jersey became a hub of spiritual rejuvenation and communal joy as the Syro-Malankara Catholic community of North America gathered for its 11th Family Convention. From July 20th to 23rd, 2023, this triennial event embraced the central theme of "Rooted In Christ, and Sacred Traditions," captivating hearts and fostering a deep sense of unity among attendees.
The St. Mary Queen of Peace Syro-Malankara Catholic Eparchy in the USA & Canada is pleased to inform its faithful that Rt. Rev. Msgr. Gigi Philip has been appointed as the Rector of the prestigious St. Mary's Malankara Major Seminary, located in Pattom, Trivandrum.
As he prepares to embark on this new journey as Rector of St. Mary's Malankara Major Seminary, the Eparchy extends its heartfelt gratitude for his invaluable contributions to the Eparchy and wishes him every success in his future endeavours.
The St. Mary Queen of Peace Syro-Malankara Catholic Eparchy in the USA & Canada is delighted to announce the appointment of Rev. Fr. Jobin Thomas as the new Director of Faith Formation. He will be replacing Rev. Fr. Liju Thundiyil, who has been recalled to his home Archeparchy of Tiruvalla, Kerala, to take on new responsibilities in service to the Church.
The Eparchial Bishop, Most Rev. Dr. Philipos Mar Stephanos, announces the following clergy appointments which are effective as of July 1, 2023, unless otherwise noted:
1. Rt. Rev. Msgr. Gigi Philip is relieved as Syncellus of the Eparchy and Pastor of St. Mary’s Syro-Malankara Catholic Church, Toronto.
2. Rev. Fr. Abraham Lukose is appointed as the Moderator of St. Mary’s SyroMalankara Catholic Church, Toronto, and Rev. Fr. Varghese Anchanithadathil as the Administrator of the same parish.
Rev. Fr. Jobin Thomas, our dedicated Eparchial Safe Environment Coordinator, attended the prestigious 2023 Child & Youth Protection Catholic Leadership Conference (CYPCLC) in San Diego, California from April 16 to 19, 2023. This significant event brings together leaders, experts, and advocates from across the Catholic Church to address the crucial topic of child and youth protection.
St. Mary, Queen of Peace Syro-Malankara Catholic Eparchy in the USA & Canada extends hearty congratulations and prayerful best wishes to His Excellency Most Rev. Francis (Frank) Leo, who was appointed Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Toronto on February 11, 2023, by His Holiness Pope Francis.
In 1997, Pope Saint John Paul II instituted a day of prayer for women and men in consecrated life. This celebration is attached to the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord on February 2nd. As we celebrate the World Day of Prayer for Consecrated Life, let us pray that this be a time of grace and growth throughout the Eparchy and that there will be a renewal of interest in vocations to the priesthood and consecrated life.
On January 30, 2023, The Eparchial Bishop, Most Rev. Dr. Philipos Mar Stephanos and the Chancery Secretary, Rev. Fr. Jobin Thomas visited St. Philip's Seminary in Toronto.
During the visit, Bishop Stephanos met with the Rector and Dean of the Seminary, Very Rev. Fr. Paul Pearson and with Bro. Christopher Thomas. Bro. Christopher is presently enrolled in a two-year Philosophy Program at St. Philip's Seminary. The Eparchy is grateful to Very Rev. Fr. Paul and St. Philip's Seminary for the ongoing formation and education that they are providing for Bro. Christopher.