Mission Report
Introduction
In Malta, a land blessed by the missionary work of Saint Paul the Apostle, the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church established its mission on 25th September 2022. This historic initiative was undertaken with the special permission and blessings of Moran Mor Baselios Cleemis Catholicos, and with the support of the Archdiocese of Malta, under the leadership of Archbishop Charles Scicluna and Auxiliary Bishop Joseph Galea-Curmi.
The mission was founded under the dedicated leadership of Rev. Fr. Benedict Kurian Perumuttath, marking the beginning of a new spiritual home for the Malankara Catholic faithful in Malta.
Mission Vision and Growth
The primary aim of this mission is to provide spiritual care and pastoral support to members of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church who come to Malta for employment, education, and other purposes. It seeks to help the faithful preserve their rich liturgical traditions, heritage, and spiritual identity while living away from their homeland.
What began as a small group of around seven members has evolved into a vibrant faith community of approximately 120 members, characterised by strong unity, faith, and commitment.
Leadership and Pastoral Development
A significant milestone in the community’s journey was the appointment of Rev. Fr. Samuel Thonduparambil (Fr. Joji Joy) as Residential Spiritual Director on July 7, 2024, under the direction of Moran Mor Baselios Cleemis Catholicos. This marked a new phase of pastoral renewal, strengthening liturgical life and expanding ministries within the community.
Community Life and Ministries
The community today consists of about 122 members from 20 families,18 Sunday school students, numbers of youth including active participation from youth and children. Various ministries play a vital role in its growth, including:
Sunday School for the faith formation of children
MCYM (Malankara Catholic Youth Movement) engages youth in spiritual and social activities
MCMF (Mothers’ Forum) supporting family prayer life
MCA (Malankara Catholic Association) is strengthening community unity
Intercessory Prayer Ministry fostering a strong spiritual foundation
These ministries contribute significantly to nurturing faith across all age groups.
Liturgical and Spiritual Growth
The liturgical life of the community has developed remarkably—from monthly Holy Qurbana in its early stages to regular daily celebrations today. This steady growth has deepened the faithful’s connection to the Syro-Malankara Catholic tradition and strengthened their spiritual lives.
Major Events and Milestones
The community actively celebrates major feasts and spiritual events throughout the year, including Marian feasts, Christmas, and Great Lent observances. A historic highlight was the first pastoral visit of the Catholicos, during which the community was officially named St. Paul’s Syro-Malankara Catholic Community.
For the first time in Malta, the community successfully organised the full Holy Week services. The Annual Feast of Saint Paul the Apostle was celebrated solemnly with Holy Qurbana and a grand procession, marking an important milestone toward full parish establishment.
Conclusion
The years 2022–2025 have been a period of remarkable spiritual growth, unity, and pastoral development. With strong leadership, active participation, and expanding ministries, the St. Paul’s Syro-Malankara Catholic Community in Malta continues to flourish as a spiritual home for the faithful and a vibrant witness to the richness of the Catholic Church.
