Brother Christopher Thomas and Brother George Thomas Kochumalil Receive the Minor Order of Heupadyakno

The St. Mary, Queen of Peace Syro-Malankara Catholic Eparchy in the USA & Canada rejoices in announcing that Brother Christopher Thomas and Brother George Thomas Kochumalil received the Minor Order of Heupadyakno (Subdeacon) on August 13, 2026. The solemn rite was held at St. Vincent de Paul Syro-Malankara Catholic Cathedral in Elmont, New York. His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Philipos Mar Stephanos, Bishop of the St. Mary, Queen of Peace Syro-Malankara Catholic Eparchy in the USA & Canada, presided over the service and conferred the Minor Order of Heupadyakno upon the two candidates, invoking upon them the grace needed to serve at the altar with humility, reverence, and diligence. This conferral marks a significant step in the two brothers' spiritual formation as they continue their journey of discernment and service within the Church.

Surrounded by clergy, family members, and the parish community, both candidates received the vestments proper to the order and were formally entrusted with their new liturgical responsibilities, assisting at the Holy Qurbono and other Church services. Rt. Rev. Monsignor Augustine Mangalath, Vicar General of the Eparchy, led the conduct of the ceremony. Very Rev. Fr. Noby Thomas Ayyaneth, Rector of St. Vincent de Paul Syro-Malankara Catholic Cathedral, served as the Master of Ceremonies and coordinator of the function.

The Eparchy extends its heartfelt congratulations to Brother Christopher Thomas and Brother George Thomas Kochumalil and asks the faithful to keep them in their prayers as they embrace this new responsibility in service of the altar, the Church, and the People of God.