Major Archbishop of Syro-Malabar Church Mar Raphael Thattil on Monday condemned what he termed as the growing attacks by communal forces against Christians across the country. Inaugurating the second session of the 33rd Synod of Bishops of the Syro-Malabar Church at Mount St. Thomas, the major archbishop assured the “persecuted church communities and individuals in different parts of the country” that they were not alone and that the church will always stand with them, according to a communication issued by Fr. Tom Olikarott, spokesperson, Syro-Malabar Church.
In his address, Archbishop Thattil recalled the nation’s progress in modern times while condemning the persecution faced by religious minorities and the injustices endured by nuns in Chhattisgarh. The major archbishop said these were days calling for deep reflection on the changes and reforms needed in the pastoral style and arrangements of the Church.
The Synod session opened with meditations led by Mar Alex Tharamangalam, Auxiliary Bishop of the Eparchy of Mananthavady. A total of 52 bishops from across the country and abroad are attending the session. The Synod will conclude on Friday, August 29.
Published – August 18, 2025 09:32 pm IST