First Parish in Exarchate

  • Posted on: 17 November 2011


Canonical Establishment of the First Parish in the Syro-Malankara Catholic Exarchate

Following the establishment of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Apostolic Exarchate in the United States by the Holy Father Pope Benedict XVI, and its formal inauguration in October, 2010, the erection of the first parish in the Exarchate was a truly historic moment. On the occasion of the feast in honor of its heavenly patron, the St. John Chrysostom Syro-Malankara Catholic parish in Long Island was formally established on Sunday, November 13, 2011. Representatives from all of the Tri-state Malankara parishes were in attendance on the occasion of the establishment of the first parish in the Exarchate and the venue was the St. Vincent de Paul parish church, Elmont, New York.
This auspicious event began at 3:00 PM with a liturgical reception to Most Rev. Thomas Mar Eusebius, Bishop of the Exarchate, and to Rev. Msgr. Richard Figliozzi, Administrator of the St. Vincent De Paul Parish. Msgr. Figliozzi welcomed the Syro-Malankara community to the church where the community will continue to hold their liturgical celebrations and parish activities. This welcome was followed by a word of appreciation and gratitude and the solemn celebration of the Holy Qurbono by Bishop Mar Eusebius. Seven priests, including members of the Exarchial Curia, concelebrated with His Excellency.
After the Gospel Reading, Very Rev. Msgr. Peter Kochery, Vicar General of the Exarchate, explained the significance of this ecclesial event. The decree of erection of the parish was solemnly read out by Very Rev. Fr. Augustine A. Mangalath, the Chancellor of the Exarchate. After the reading of the decree, His Excellency signed and presented it to Rev. Fr. Abraham Lukose, the Pastor of the new parish, Mr. Johnson Daniel, Parish Council Secretary, and Mr. Wilson Joseph, Parish Council Treasurer. The solemn celebration of the Holy Qurbono continued with a homily delivered by His Excellency.
After the liturgical celebration, the official website of the Exarchate was launched by His Excellency and members of the Web Team. This was followed by dinner and the annual cultural program of the parish, including skits, dances, and songs, which was conducted in the parish hall.