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Pope encourages Syro-Malankara faithful in Europe to be messengers of hope
Pope Leo encourages Syro-Malankara Catholics living in Europe to remain rooted in their ecclesial heritage, and become “messengers of hope” as their Church prepares for its centenary.
By Vatican News
Pope Leo welcomed a delegation of clergy, religious and faithful of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church to the Vatican on Monday on the occasion of the first convention of Syro-Malankara faithful residing in Europe.
Addressing those present, the Pope noted that the entire Syro-Malankara Church has embarked on a multi-year journey of spiritual renewal in preparation for its centenary, which will mark one hundred years since the establishment of full ecclesial communion that led to the growth of the Church as it exists today.
Recalling the Apostolic Constitution Christo Pastorum Principi, promulgated by Pope Pius XI in 1932, the Holy Father expressed gratitude for the witness of Venerable Mar Ivanios and Mar Theophilos, who guided clergy, religious and faithful towards communion with the Successor of Peter.
Describing Mar Ivanios as a “true Shepherd after the Heart of Jesus”, Pope Leo said he embodied the desire for a united Church that serves as “a sign of unity and communion” and a source of reconciliation in the world.
Evangelisation through witness
The Pope noted that even as a young priest, Mar Ivanios looked beyond the boundaries of his own community and recognised the need to revive the missionary dynamism first planted in India through the preaching of Saint Thomas the Apostle. He also understood, the Pope said, that missionary work must not be carried out “with words alone, but rather through a virtuous life and genuine charitable service.”
The Pope highlighted that the Syro-Malankara Church has become “a beacon of evangelical energy and apostolic charity,” bringing education, social justice and integral human development to those on the margins of society. (@VATICAN MEDIA)
For this reason, Pope Leo continued, the Syro-Malankara Church has become “a beacon of evangelical energy and apostolic charity,” bringing education, social justice and integral human development to those on the margins of society.
Quoting Pope Benedict XVI, he recalled that the Gospel spreads above all through attraction, as Christ “draws all to himself by the power of his love.”
Caring for the diaspora
Turning to the Church’s growing presence outside India, Pope Leo stressed the importance of safeguarding the spiritual and liturgical heritage of the Eastern Catholic Churches, especially among diaspora communities. He recalled the establishment of an Apostolic Exarchate for Syro-Malankara faithful in the United States under Pope Benedict XVI and the later extension of pastoral care to Canada under Pope Francis.
Turning then to the faithful living abroad, Pope Leo noted that he appointed Bishop Mar Osthathios as the first full-time Apostolic Visitator for Syro-Malankara Catholics throughout Europe.
The Bishop’s mission, he explained, is to assess the pastoral situation and help establish “firm and enduring foundations” so that future generations may continue to deepen “their friendship with the Lord Jesus through engagement with their unique traditions.”
The delegation included clergy, religious and faithful of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church on the occasion of the first convention of Syro-Malankara faithful residing in Europe (@VATICAN MEDIA)
The Pope also said he had asked the Dicastery for the Eastern Churches to help define ways in which Latin bishops can support Eastern Catholics in preserving their traditions while enriching the local Churches in which they live.
A faith to be lived and shared
Bringing his address to a close, Pope Leo encouraged the faithful to promote greater awareness of the “precious identity” of the Syro-Malankara Church and to participate actively in its ecclesial life.
He urged all those present to remain united with their Major Archbishop and Synod of Bishops while cherishing the heritage they have received.
Finally noting the reputation of Saint Thomas in Christian communities for strong and devout family life, the Pope prayed that “strong faith may continue to thrive” in their homes and hearts, particularly among young people.
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