Major Archbishop Mar Raphael Thattil, head of the Syro-Malabar Church, affirmed that the Church will stand firmly with the Knanaya community to help them realize every dream in their hearts. He was speaking at a reception held in conjunction with the 15th anniversary celebrations of St. Mary’s Knanaya Catholic Parish, which is the second Knanaya parish in Chicago and the largest among the Knanaya diaspora.
“The unity and warmth of the Knanaya community are remarkable. The Knanaya community is the hidden treasure that safeguards the Church’s traditions,” said Mar Raphael Thattil. He emphasized the major role the Knanaya community has played in the growth of the Syro-Malabar Church and how they stood unwavering during times of crisis. Therefore, the Church promises full support for the growth and strengthening of the Knanaya community.
On Thursday, May 29, at 6 PM, Archbishop Mar Mathew Moolakkatt of the Kottayam Archdiocese, Bishop Mar Joy Alappatt of the Chicago Syro-Malabar Diocese, and former bishop Mar Jacob Angadiath accompanied Major Archbishop Thattil to the church. They were welcomed with bouquets by parish trustees and led to the church with traditional drums and ceremonial accompaniment. A solemn Pontifical Holy Mass was celebrated with Mar Raphael Thattil as the main celebrant, joined by Mar Moolakkatt, Mar Alappatt, Mar Angadiath, Knanaya Region Director Monsignor Thomas Mulavanal, founding vicar Fr. Abraham Mutholath, vicar Fr. Siju Mudakodiyil, assistant vicar Fr. Aneesh Maveliputhenpurayil, and Fr. Francis Elavuthunkal.
During the homily, Archbishop Mar Mathew Moolakkatt stated that the growth of the Knanaya community in Chicago is a clear example of how God fulfills the plans of those who surrender themselves to His divine will. He emphasized the importance of remaining united with Church structures that support spiritual growth and being active contributors to the Church’s mission, guided by the Holy Spirit. He called for thanksgiving for the blessings received over the past 15 years and for prayer and effort to receive more.
Monsignor Thomas Mulavanal, Knanaya Catholic Region Director and Vicar General, offered greetings on behalf of the Knanaya Region and praised the contributions made by Major Archbishop Thattil, Mar Jacob Angadiath, and Mar Joy Alappatt to the Knanaya community. He also remembered the deep love and sacrifices of Archbishop Mar Moolakkatt for the community.
Vicar Fr. Siju Mudakodiyil welcomed the guests and noted that the 15th anniversary marks proud moments for all who have selflessly contributed to the growth of St. Mary’s Parish. He highlighted that the Eucharistic celebration, with bishops including the Pope mentioned in the intercessions, marks a historic moment in the life of the parish. He expressed confidence that Mar Raphael Thattil’s presence and commitment will energize the parish’s future missions.
Bishops Mar Joy Alappatt and Mar Jacob Angadiath extended their greetings and gratitude to all parishioners who supported the establishment and growth of the parish. Both emphasized the need for continued growth in faith. Mar Angadiath expressed his belief that a new diocese for the Knanaya community will be realized at God’s appointed time. Mar Alappatt noted that one-third of the Syro-Malabar Church in America is made up of the Knanaya community, underscoring their strength.
In his message, founding vicar Fr. Abraham Mutholath reflected on the sacrifices and pain endured in forming the parish and the dedication of those who worked behind the scenes. He likened the experience to a mother’s labor pains, which turn into joy once a child is born. He recalled the steadfast support of bishops Mar Moolakkatt, Mar Alencherry, and Mar Angadiath with deep gratitude. He thanked fundraising committee members Thampi Viruthikulangara and Stephen Kizhakkekuttu for their efforts and fondly remembered Biju Kizhakkekuttu, the first trustee coordinator, who led the transformation of a synagogue building into a Catholic church, along with other trustees and volunteers. He also expressed gratitude to loan guarantors Jaybu Kulangara, Francis Kizhakkekuttu, Shaji Edath, and Jose Ikkaraparambil, who stepped in when no bank would provide a loan for purchasing the church.
As part of the celebrations, the parish honored all the clergy, religious, executive members over the past 15 years, those involved in the founding of the parish, catechism leaders, and youth who graduated this year. The event was coordinated by celebration committee chairman Binu Kaithakathottiyil and PRO Anil Mattathikkunnel. Trustee Sabu Kattapuram offered a vote of thanks. The event concluded with a fellowship meal.
Planning and execution of the celebration were led by a team including Binu Kaithakathottiyil, Stephen Kizhakkekuttu, Stephen Chollampel, Tony Palliyirathundathil, Mini Edakkara, and Tessy Njaravelil. Parish Council members, Vicar Fr. Siju Mudakodiyil, Assistant Vicar Fr. Aneesh Maveliputhenpurayil, Secretary Sister Shalom, trustees Sabu Kattapuram, Binu Poothurayil, Lukose Poozhikkunnel, George Mattathiparambil, Nibin Vettikkatt, Parish Council Secretary Sunny Meledam, and PRO Anil Mattathikkunnel also led the efforts.