The Kanjirappally Diocese, under the Syro-Malabar Church, is approaching its milestone 50th anniversary. According to Diocese Public Relations Officer (PRO) Fr. Stanly Pullolickal, the Kanjirappally Diocese was formed in 1977 following the division of the eastern part of the Changanassery Archdiocese.

As part of the Golden Jubilee celebrations, an eparchial assembly will be held at Marian College Kuttikkanam in Idukki from May 12 to 16. Bishop of Kanjirappally, Mar Jose Pulickal, will preside over the assembly, where 180 members from various regions will participate and discuss diverse issues. Year-long celebrations are scheduled to take place as part of the golden jubilee.

Major Archbishop to inaugurate

The Major Archbishop of the Syro-Malabar Church, Mar Raphael Thattil, will inaugurate the Golden Jubilee and the eparchial assembly on Monday. Former Kanjirappally Bishop Mar Mathew Arackal will deliver a message. The Archbishop of Changanassery, Mar Thomas Tharayil, will deliver the keynote speech at the concluding ceremony on Friday.

Jubilee flags will be hoisted in all parishes under the diocese on May 17 to inaugurate parish-level celebrations and announce local jubilee projects. A mega Golden Jubilee meet is scheduled to take place in Kanjirappally on January 26, 2027, with the final conclusion of the jubilee year held on May 12, 2027 at Kanjirappally.

According to church authorities, the Kanjirappally Diocese spans across Kottayam and parts of the Pathanamthitta and Idukki districts. Settled farmers make up the majority of the laity within the diocese. The diocese was established by Pope Paul VI, with Mar Joseph Powathil serving as its first metropolitan. Subsequently, Mar Mathew Vattakkuzhy and Mar Mathew Arackal served as bishops. The jubilee year officially begins on May 12.