Pope says 'the Poor are our Passport to Paradise': World Day of the Poor 19-11-17

(image courtesy: catholicnewsagency.com)

The Universal Catholic Church observed the 19th of November 2017 as the first 'World Day of the Poor'. Hereafter the 33rd Sunday in ordinary time is to be commemorated as 'International Day of the Poor'.

Speaking on the occasion, the Holy Father Pope Francis said that the poor people are our passport to get into Paradise. Hence they are a boon to all as they are instrumental to attain our eternal goal. While giving message he quoted the 1st letter of St John from the Bible chapter “Little children, let us not love in word or speech, but in deed and in truth” (1 Jn 3:18). So to pave a shortcut way to the Paradise is very easy and it is at anyone's reach. Because more than half of the world's population are starving and about 80% of the global people are poor.

The Pope also said that it is not only the worldly bread that we must share with the poor but also the spiritual Word of God. The poor people represent the Lord Jesus Christ. Because HE left all His riches and was born as the poorest of the poor in this world. And the Good News of the Birth of the Saviour of the humanity was first made known to the poor people.
The Lord Jesus has categorically stated that it is very difficult for the rich to enter the Kingdom of God (Matt. 19:23). He has said that "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven" (Matt. 5:3). Through His Holy Word, He is repeatedly issuing the warning message of possessing wealth and the dangers of having riches in the world. But many people including many chosen ones are seen amassing wealth which may be a dangerous hurdle for them to enter the heaven!

In the final judgement the Lord is going to reward only them those who rendered services to the needy with love and compassion. Like food for the hungry, drink for the thirsty, accommodation for the homeless, company for the neglected, etc..

To get a passport to go to another country may be little difficult and expensive. But to get a passport to reach the Paradise in a shortcut route is very easy. One need to have only a liberal heart to share what one has with his needy neighbour. This act will take him to paradise as per the Word of Lord Jesus and His servant the Pope Francis!

Let us all strive hard to reach our ultimate goal, The Paradise!
God Bless you.

Miraculous St Anthony's Shrine Kottayam, Efficacious Novena Prayer

(image courtesy: holymassimages.blogspot.com)

There are many Christian Churches (mostly Catholic Shrines) in different parts of Kerala that are widely recognized by large number of people belonging to different religions, races, nationalities, and languages as the centers for occurrence of miracles especially that are impossible as per the human understanding. 

St Anthony's Shrine in Nagampadom of Kottayam in central Kerala of India is a sure spot for any devotee who approaches here with strong faith in the Almighty Lord God Jesus Christ and His Blessed Virgin Mother and His devoted servant St Anthony who lived in Padua of Portugal from 15-08-1195 to 13-06-1231 loving, pleasing, obeying and serving his Master with whole heart and strength. There are hundreds and thousands of people who share their testimonies of receiving  impossible matters or needs. Many of the miraculous favours received by the pilgrims from above are too good to believe for the medical science or the human imaginations.

All good things and blessing flow only from Lord Jesus Christ Who is True and only God and the fountain of all goodness. Some people may then ask, why should one approach His Holy Mother Mary or His Saints for intercession? Please be understood that it is the will of Lord Jesus to give glory to all His Faithful people who loved, served and glorified Him with their lives on this earth. He is very willing to glorify you and me too if we 'truly' love Him by keeping His Commands..!

St Anthony's Holy Shrine in Nagampadam is blessed to have the Holy Relic of St Anthony of Padua who is known as one of the greatest miracle-performer. Even though people visit this pilgrim center all days of the week, hundreds of thousands of devotees without any discrimination of caste, creed, religion or region throng this shrine every Tuesdays, being the special day of St Anthony. As it is located very closely just beside the Kottayam private bus stand at Nagambadom and near to the Railway station, it is very convenient for the devotees to visit from far off places also.

Holy Mass, Rosary, Benediction, Novena (services) timings:

Sundays:  

               4.15 pm Rosary of Divine Mercy, 
               4.30 pm Rosary of the Blessed Virgin Mother, 
               5.00 pm Holy Mass 

Tuesdays:   

               5.15 am Rosary of Divine Mercy, 
               5.30 am Rosary of  Virgin Mother, 
               6.00 am Holy Mass, Blessing of the Holy Eucharist,
               8.00 am Holy Mass, Novena, Blessing of the Holy Eucharist,
              10.00 am Holy Mass, Novena, Blessing of the Holy Eucharist,
              12.00 noon Holy Mass, Novena, Blessing of the Holy Eucharist, 
               2.00 pm Holy Mass, Novena, Blessing of the Holy Eucharist, 
               4.15 pm Rosary of Divine Mercy, 
               4.30 pm Rosary of the Blessed Virgin Mother, 
               5.00 pm Holy Mass, Eucharistic Procession, Eucharistic Adoration.

Fridays: 

               6.00 am to 5.00 pm Adoration of the Holy Eucharist.
               5.00 pm Holy Mass.

Saturdays: 

              4.15 pm Rosary of Divine Mercy, Holy Mass, Novena of Vimalagiri Matha

Note: Special Healing and intercessory miracle Prayers are held throughout all the spiritual services by the Spirit-filled Rector Rev Father Sebastian Poovathinkal...
__________________________________________________________

Efficacious and powerful Novena Prayer to St Anthony of Nagampadom, Kottayam, Kerala:
(to be prayed preferably holding a lighted candle in front of the statue of the saint for 9 consecutive Tuesdays. Most people get their prayers answered within 3 to 4 weeks prayers!)

Oh, merciful Saint Anthony, I, this humble devotee, offer you my soul, body and all I have for your complete protection. As an act of my full faith, I offer you this burning candle all these Tuesdays. Oh St Anthony, who never fails those who beseech you, console me, my family and my dear ones, from all sorrows and difficulties and protect us from all dangers, misfortunes and tribulations. Oh St Anthony I put all my trust in you and implore you for your endless mercy. I believe there is nothing impossible through your intercession. Oh St Anthony, good fiend of Child Jesus, be always our companion, intercessor and helper. I humbly plead you to get all the spiritual and earthly needs for me and my dear ones from the Almighty God, through your powerful intercession, specially our present and urgent needs (....mention your present/important needs here....). Please rescue me and my dear ones with compassion from all the sorrows, difficulties, troubles and tribulations that are surrounding us.

Pray the Lord Jesus' Prayer (3 times):

"Our Father in Heaven, Holy be Your Name. Your Kingdom come. Your Will be done, on earth as it is in Heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. Forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who sin against us. Lead us not in to temptations, But deliver us from all evil".

Prayer to the Holy Mother of Lord Jesus (3 times)

"Hail Mary, Full of Grace! The Lord is with you. Blessed are you among  women, and Blessed is the fruit of your Womb Jesus;

Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the time of our death, Amen".

Glory be to the Holy Trinity... (3 times)

"Glory be to the Father, and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit;

As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end. Amen".

St Anthony, pray for us (3 times)

[This Prayer was translated from Malayalam to English by a 3rd year B Tech student of Amal Jyothi College of Engineering, Kanjrapally, Kottayam Dt]

Please watch the brief Biography of St Anthony here: 

*May God bless you abundantly through Mother Mary and St Anthony.
*Please share this for the benefit of others and honour of St Anthony.

*Please add your testimony below for the greater Glory of God.

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Fatima Matha Sandesh Yathra (Fatima Message Journey) Kerala

2017 marks the 100th anniversary of the 'Fatima Apparitions' of the Blessed Virgin Mother, which is one of the most important events in the world history after the Birth, Death and Resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ. The year 2017 also marks the golden jubilee of the 'Charismatic Movement' which is a tool of the Holy Spirit to save the humanity that is going towards destruction by giving it a sense of sinfulness and a heart for reconciliation and renewal. 

The 3 main Messages (requests) given by the Mother of God at Fatima are:

1. Penance: (turning away from sins and turning back to God. Many souls are losing the heaven and getting lost by inheriting hell)

2. Pray the Rosary: (Increase the number of Rosaries for self, family, conversion of sinners, world, souls in purgatory)

3. Devotion to the Immaculate Heart of Blessed Virgin Mother: The Mother Mary implores us to surrender ourselves and our near and dear ones to Her Immaculate Heart for protection from the enemies)

To spread these messages and to remind the Faithful to increase the number of daily Rosary Prayers, the Kerala Catholic Bishop's Council (KCBC) decided to hold 'Fatima Matha Sandesh Yathra' (a tour with the Sacred Statue of the Blessed Mother brought from Fatima) in all the 31 Catholic Dioceses in Kerala covering about 600 Churches. Kerala Catholic Charismatic Commission is making all arrangements for the successful conducting of the Centenary Celebrations of the Fatima Apparitions in a grant manner. 

The Fatima Sandesh Yatra was inaugurated on 15th of August, 2017 at the Lumen Youth Center Ground, Aloor in Iringalakkuda during the conclusion ceremony of the World Malayali Charismatic Meet and to conclude on 28th of October 2017 at Vallarpadam Basilica. It was rendered the first reception on August 16 at St Mary's Forane Church, Thlipparambu in Kannur District of Kerala.

The itinerary (schedule) of reception to the Sacred and Miraculous Statue of the Blessed Virgin Mother from Fatima (in Portugal) is given below. If it has covered your area (zone) and you have missed to have a sight of it, venerate and pray before it, you are urged with love to travel to one of the nearest areas and have a darshan of the Mother of the Savior of the humanity and get umpteen blessings as this is a once in a lifetime Opportunity. Any trouble or hardship taken for this act is worthwhile. The Holy Father Pope Francis has awarded special indulgence to everyone who venerates the Sacred Statue and prays before it.

    Dates:                Zones (regions/head quarters)

August 17-19         Kannur
August 20-22         Kasargod
August 23-25         Tellissery
August 25-28         Mananthavady
August 28-01         Kozhikkod

September 02-05    Palakkadu
September 06-08    Thrissur
September 09-11    Angamaly
September 12-14    Kothamangalam
September 15-17    Idukki
September 18-20    Kattappana
September 21-23    Kanjirappally
September 24-26    Pala
September 27-29    Kottayam
September 30-02    Changanacherry

October 03-05       Punalur
October 06-08       (Days of Prayer)
October 09-11       Neyyattinkara
October 12-14       Thiruvannthapuram
October 15-17       Kollam
October  18-20      Alappuzha
October 21-22       Chertala
October 23-24       Kochi
October 25-27       Ernakulam

October 28 Grand Conclusion Ceremony at Vallarpadom St Mary's Basilica.

Please utilize this golden opportunity and Remain Blessed.....

'Aatmamitra' The last (and best) resort for youth in despair

The world is changing rapidly. Life has become very much easier and cosier than before. Science and technology is growing day-by-day and hour-by-hour..!

In pace with the fast growth of technology mainly mobile, internet and video games, the number of people (particularly the children and youth) who succumb to the trap laid by the devil is also increasing alarmingly.  Added to this, the money-centered modern families that lack in love, values and prayers also become the manufacturing centers of individuals who too have seldom values , ethics or discipline in life and they become desperate in the early stage of life itself and want to put an end to it for silly momentary reasons.

Added to this, mobile games like 'blue whale' etc discovered by satan also do thier best to spoil the lives of the present day youth. Misuse and overuse of internet and social medias like facebook, whatsapp etc are also found to be the main causes for the damage of the present generation.

Children of the families where love, order and prayers are lacking, get attracted to uncommon and perverted love that are deceiving and dangerous, and by the time they begin realize the facts, it is too late and they also think that there  is no more meaning to live and try to end the life which is very precious and granted for only once here in this planet. 

In such circumstances, there is one organization that strives sincerely for a remedy to the destruction and degradation of the present day generation. It is none other than Atma Mitra, a noble initiative of the Kerala Jesuit Mission designed and founded by Rev Fr Toby Joseph Kozhuppakkalam. It is situated at 'Sameeksha' campus, a center for study and dialogues of diversified Indian spirituality in Kalady of Ernakulam district.

Atma Mitra which means 'soul friend' or 'friend for life' is a dream project of the founder priest Rev Fr Toby who is an eminent psychological counselor and personality development trainer. The Director Missionary of the not-for-profit organization who works day and night selflessly and tirelessly, has by now saved so many valuable young lives from committing suicides. It is his passion and Divine Calling to serve among the distressed persons particularly the teenagers and youth, without any discrimination of caste, creed, religion or regional barriers. Even if given a missed call to the mobile number, one will get a call back immediately.

There is a 24x7 help line number accessible for the benefit of the hopeless. 

It is (+91) 85475-97883, 8281-676741. And the land line number is: 0484-2466080

The Director can be contacted through e-mail also: tobsysj@gmail.com

Matt 5:16. Let your light shine before others to Glorify your Father in Heaven

"Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and Glorify your Father in Heaven" (Matt 5:16). 

Lord Jesus Christ, Who is the incarnate Son of God gave away everything He had for us- His Body, Blood, Spirit, Power, Love, Compassion... He was too generous to give His own Almighty Heavenly Father and Virgin Mother as our Father and Mother! It is an act that cannot happen in the normal human understanding. God is far beyond the reach of human beings in everything. God is very holy and man is sinful. God is almighty and man is nothing in comparison to God. Still out of His unstinting Love for us, our Lord Jesus gave us His Father and asked us not to bring disgrace to Him with our devilish behavior. 

It is said that 'Yatha Raja, tatha praja' (As the king so the people) or 'Yatha Pitha, tatha Putra' (like father, like son). If a person is well mannered and good, it will bring good name and fame to his parents particularly his father. Likewise if a person behaves wickedly, he will put his parents to dishonor and shame. 

This is what the great Indian poet Thiruvalluvar also has written, "Makan thanthaikku aatrum udhavi ivan thanthai ennotran kol enum sol" [The greatest filial service of a son is to behave in such a manner and make the world wonder and ask what penance has his father performed to be blessed with such a son.]

Our Lord and Savior has asked us his disciples (or pleaded us) to conduct in such a way that the gentiles see the good deeds of the Christians and glorify the Heavenly Father who is Almighty and Eternal. If a person claims to be a Christian and engages in criminal activities, he is bringing dishonor not only to the Heavenly Father, but also to our Lord Who laid down His Life for us and to HIS Holy Church on this earth. 

If a Christian leader or politician (or a person with a Christian name) involves in corruptions or cheating or any other criminal activities what disgrace he is bringing to the Lord and His Church. If anyone has committed and involved in any unlawful activities, he/she should shun that path and seek God's pardon and forgiveness immediately. 

The recent damage inflicted by the Kerala based priest to the local church through his heinous act is horrible. But it will not affect the Church of the Lord. Even one among the 12 Apostles of the Lord was a traitor but it was not the end of the Church. There were some priests and religious people like this in the Church who slowly neglected their personal prayers (and Rosary Prayers) due to their busy 'service' activities and fell prey for the evil spirits. Power and positions are always dangerous and may slowly widen the gap between one's religious calling. May this serve as a warning to those anointed persons who devote much of their time for other activities neglecting the most important thing in their lives that it Prayer (and the personal relationship with the Lord and His Mother). If any faithful of the Lord happens to fall in any trap of satan, he/she should immediately detest the pleasure of sins and run away to cleanse him/herself through the sacrament of Confession. Otherwise satan will see that the child of God is completely ruined. 

It is highly advisable for the Christians not to use or to minimize the use the internet and social medias like facebook, twitter, whatsapp etc as there are hidden traps laid by the devil. If it cannot be avoided, use it very carefully, diligently and prayerfully. Regular reciting of the Rosary Prayer will definitely protect every child of God from falling in to the attractions of the world and create a feeling of contempt to the worldly attractions like movies, serials, televisions, liquor, parties, etc... 

"Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us." (1 Peter 2:12)

Please Read the Holy Word of God and pray the Rosary and other Prayers regularly. Help others also to walk in the path of God. Lets try to glorify the Heavenly Father by showing our good deeds before others and avoiding anything that is evil. 

God Bless!

An Indian Priest visits hell, purgatory and Heaven: Live video Testimony

This is not a fabricated story or imagination. It is a real incident. It happened about 30 years ago. To a matured Christian Priest. As it is strongly felt that it is very much necessary to mention it now, to bring to the notice of them who conveniently refuse to believe or neglect the very facts told by Lord Jesus about the existence of hell, purgatory and Heaven, I am listing here the own testimony of the Catholic Priest who personally was taken to these places and was allowed to have a first hand experience.

God's words clearly mention in the Holy Bible about the life after death. The Lord has categorically stated that 'the hell is full of fire that does not diminish and worms that do not die' (Mark 9:48). Unfortunately many people now-a-days are seen making statements and arguments in different ways trying to say that the hell full of unquenching fire is not true with a 'nice' motive of removing the fear of hell from the human minds..! It is very unfortunate that there are some preachers (including some Bishops and Priests) who deliver soft and smooth sermons with their own findings like 'the hell is an imaginary state of mind or the hell is in this world only' etc.

The Lord Jesus while saying the incident (true story) of the 'rich man and Lazarus' (Luke 16: 23-25) tells how the fiery the hades are, It is not a parable but He says, "There was a rich man...."

Some Saints were allowed to visit the hell, purgatory and Heaven. After seeing the plight of people in the fiery hell, they shivered and spent the rest of their lives in intercessory prayers. 

Rev Father Jose Maniyangat who is now actively conducting a full time healing ministry in the USA tells about how he met with a fatal accident while he was going for Parish duty when he was in Kerala and how he was taken by his guardian Angel after his soul left his body to see the hell, purgatory and Heaven, and how he met the Lord Jesus, Blessed Mother and St Joseph. 

In his testimony the father says that he was surprised to see some persons in the hell whom he had known earlier. They included some Bishops and Priests whom he never expected to see there. 

Links:

Youtube video testimony of Rev Fr Jose Maniyangattu in Malayalam:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=39eTRtqueIo

Youtube video testimony of Fr Jose's story by Rev Fr Joseph Mary's Homily in English:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FeQNdXu-Uvc

Written testimony of Rev Fr Jose in English:

http://www.experienceproject.com/stories/Am-Christian-(roman-Catholic)/1587294

Rev Fr Jose Maniyangat Ministry and Prayer Request:

http://frmaniyangathealingministry.com/Default.aspx

Please forward/share this blog post with others to remind and warn them about the eternal life after death. Lets also Pray earnestly that no one goes to hell........because our Lord has shed His precious blood for the salvation of the whole humanity.......

Merry Christmas 2016! (Not Merry X-Mas) Christ+Mass

The Holy Season of Advent 2016 has come to an end with the dawn of the Christmas Day just now today. 'Advent' is the season when the faithful world-wide wait eagerly and prepare mentally and spiritually for the 'Coming' of the Lord Jesus Christ to be born as a human in this world.

Many people who were with us to celebrate the last Christmas 2015 are not alive to see this Christmas. By the grace of Lord Jesus, you and me are still alive to see, witness and live one more Christmas. Thank You God!

Some people spend time discussing what to add before Christmas! Whether it is 'Merry Christmas' or 'Happy Christmas'. Even though there is slight difference in these words, Christmas is a celebration that brings merry making and happiness.

Christmas is the only festival celebrated throughout the world, and in every parts of the universe, by most of the humanity. Christmas brings Joy, Happiness, Peace, Prosperity and Blessings to one and all. Because The Lord Jesus Christ took the incarnation of a man to be offered as a ransom for the redemption of the entire mankind, without any discrimination of race, religion, region etc, Christmas is not the festival of just Christians but every human beings.

Christmas was shortly mentioned as X-Mas in the yesteryears. It is because the Greek letter X was pronounced as 'Kye' which is the first letter of Christ in Greek language. Even though Christmas was written as X Mas in greeting cards and letters, it was pronounced as 'Christ Mass'. But with arrival of internet the meanings of the letters are misinterpreted. As per Mathematical explanations, X denotes a person who has no name. X is also mentioned to represent filthy things now-a-days. 

The commercial world sees Christmas with its business eye only. Beautiful decorations and stars are hung on business establishments. But there is no Christ there. It is painful to understand that even Western countries that gave birth to a huge number of great Saints and Martyrs is calling Christmas season as holiday season removing the Holy Name of the Hero of the season from His own Birthday Celebrations. And even in the developing countries, some Christians are giving more importance to the external celebrations only, very comfortably forgetting and neglecting the real spirit of Christmas that is spreading and sharing Joy, Peace and happiness.

May the Child Jesus give you and all your dear ones a 'good heart' to experience His Peace as the Bible says "Glory to God in the highest and Peace to those with goodwill...!

The Year of Mercy ends, Doors of Churches close, But God's Mercy never ends!

The Universal Catholic Church has been celebrating the 'Extraordinary Great Jubilee Year of Divine Mercy' since 8th December, 2015. The official celebrations that commenced on the inaugural day with the symbolic opening of the great Door of the Basilica of St Peter by Pope Francis, and lasted nearly for an year, are ending with the Feast of Christ the King on 20th November, 2016. 

The Holy Jubilee Year of God's Mercy was observed with the motto, "Be Merciful like the Father" (Lk. 6;36). The main purpose of announcing this year was to give an opportunity for the members of the Catholic Christian community to practice the virtue of mercy and compassion to his fellow human beings as God the Father is showing to his sinful children without any conditions. It was also a golden opportunity for those people who left the Church and the Love of the compassionate Father for different reasons to come back to the main stream without any (normal) conditions or traditional punishments. 

Hundreds of thousands of people entered through the specified Doors of Mercy of Churches or Basilicas throughout the world during this period and experienced the sweetness of the Love, Forgiveness and Mercy of the Divine Father. Those who observed this Jubilee with devotion as instructed by the Holy Father Pope Francis (who is authorized by the Lord to grant) also received the special blessings and pardoning for all their sins. All those who received God's Mercy must preserve It and radiate It to the world.

There are still many people who could not take advantage of this special opportunity. Even though the Church closes the great Doors of St Peter's Basilica in Rome as a symbolic sign to wind-up the Jubilee Year of Divine Mercy, the ever flowing Mercy of the Divine Father never never ends or stops as HE is Mercy Himself (Ps 136). His Mercy and Compassion follows everyone until one's last moment in this world. As no one ever knows when is his/her final moments on this earth would be, it is imperative for each and everyone to rush to any Church as early as possible and seek the Forgiveness of sins from any Catholic Priest and receive God's unlimited and never ending Mercy and eternal Love.

The Year of Mercy ends, Doors of Churches close, But God's Mercy never ends!

The Universal Catholic Church has been celebrating the 'Extraordinary Great Jubilee Year of Divine Mercy' since 8th December, 2015. The official celebrations that commenced on the inaugural day with the symbolic opening of the great Door of the Basilica of St Peter by Pope Francis, and lasted nearly for an year, are ending with the Feast of Christ the King on 20th November, 2016. 

The Holy Jubilee Year of God's Mercy was observed with the motto, "Be Merciful like the Father" (Lk. 6;36). The main purpose of announcing this year was to give an opportunity for the members of the Catholic Christian community to practice the virtue of mercy and compassion to his fellow human beings as God the Father is showing to his sinful children without any conditions. It was also a golden opportunity for those people who left the Church and the Love of the compassionate Father for different reasons to come back to the main stream without any (normal) conditions or traditional punishments. 

Hundreds of thousands of people entered through the specified Doors of Mercy of Churches or Basilicas throughout the world during this period and experienced the sweetness of the Love, Forgiveness and Mercy of the Divine Father. Those who observed this Jubilee with devotion as instructed by the Holy Father Pope Francis (who is authorized by the Lord to grant) also received the special blessings and pardoning for all their sins.

There are still many people who could not take advantage of this special opportunity. Even though the Church closes the great Doors of St Peter's Basilica in Rome as a symbolic sign to wind-up the Jubilee Year of Divine Mercy, the ever flowing Mercy of the Divine Father never never ends as HE is Mercy Himself. His Mercy and Compassion follows everyone until one's last moment in this world. As no one ever knows when is his/her last moment on this earth, it is imperative for each and everyone to rush to any Church as early as possible and seek the Forgiveness of sins from any Catholic Priest and receive God's unlimited and never ending Mercy and eternal Love.

Syro Malabar Church NOT to wash women's feet on Holy Thursday 2016

The Major Arch Bishop of the Syro-Malabar Catholic Church of Kerala, Cardinal George Alencherry has made an announcement regarding the female participation in 'the washing of the feet ceremony' during the 2016 Holy Thursday Mass of the Lord's last Supper. 

'Washing of the feet' (mandatum) is a custom practised by the Catholic Church, taking example from the 'Humble Act' of the Divine Master who surprised His 12 Apostles by kneeling before each and washing and kissing everyone's feet during His Last Supper with them on Holy Thursday, before His Great Passion and death on the Cross on Good Friday. This great exemplary act of the Greatest Master before His disciples to teach them to show in action the value of humility and love to one another is being carried out by His followers throughout the world. Ever since the last Supper of the Lord in 33 AD, in every Catholic Church, the heads of the Church starting from the Pope, Cardinals, bishops or Priests, this event is performed in memory of the Lord at His command. Such a rare ceremony is performed only in the Catholic Church under the sun where a master or teacher kneeling before his disciple and washing and kissing his foot.

Until recently in the universal Catholic church, representing the Lord's 12 disciples, 12 men were invited by the priest (celebrant of the Holy Mass) to participate in this ceremony. But during the Holy Thursday ceremonies of the present Pontiff Francis after his election as the Pope, he brought about a change in the customary practice and chose some abandoned and neglected persons from the society which included some prisoners and women. 

Later this year according to the suggestions of the Holy Father, the Roman Missal numbers 10 and 11 some slight changes were initiated. The earlier wordings on the 'washing of the feet' rite said, "The pre-chosen men are accompanied by the pastor (priest)". But after the editing, the word 'men' are modified to 'people' and the present text reads as "The pre-chosen among the people of God are accompanied by the priest".  This to include everyone for the washing of the foot rite without any gender discrimination. But it is misunderstood by some people as an order of the pope to include women compulsorily for this holy ceremony by giving 50 percent reservation to female gender. 

Putting an end to this confusion, the Head of the Syrian Catholic Church, Cardinal George Alencherry issued a statement that in the universal Syro Malabar Catholic Church, women will not be included or invited for the washing of the feet during the Holy (Maundy) Thursday services on March 24, 2016. The Arch Bishop made it clear that a decision on this regard will be taken in a Church synod to be held later this year.

Catholic Christian Nurses Ministry: Glorifying the Lord through Service

When we hear and see on TV channels and in the media, the committed services of the Catholic Nurses spread around the world particularly in the middle east while on duty, and the various Spiritual and social activities they render during the week off, we feel proud and thank God for enabling these brothers and sisters who bring pride and glory to the Lord who called them and the Church that formed them and the state of Kerala which sent them.

The nurses from Kerala are preferred throughout the world. This is because of their dedication to the work. The dedicated and sincere service of Kerala nurses abroad is bringing not only foreign revenue but also a good name to the state. Many nurses opt for nursing as their profession not just by chance, but by choice. Even if someone became a nurse by chance, they transform into a worthy nurse thanks to the 'Word of God' which is deeply buried in them.

When many of these nurses realize their 'calling' and extend their services to the sick and the suffering with compassion and caring, they are indirectly glorifying the Lord. When they become able to see Lord Jesus Christ in these suffering people and serve them with love and patience, they become equal to the venerable persons like Mother Teresa.  Even though a nurse is doing the job as an employment for earning money, by having a proper attitude and changing the mindset, the same work can be turned into a great Missionary work. When a nurse devotes his/her job as a vocation and performs his/her duty seeing the invisible Lord in the patients, he/she can find happiness in the job and endure the numerous 'crosses' happily and proudly.

May the Lord Jesus Christ strengthen all nurses who are part of the Nurses Ministry in the gulf countries and bless their near and dear ones abundantly. Through this nurses' ministry, they gather together and hold prayers and other charitable activities. If all  Indian nurses (particularly the Christians) take examples from them and form and operate similar ministries in the areas of their work, they will be instrumental to the spreading of the Kingdom of God. Such fellowships will strengthen the novice and wavering individuals also. This will also bring good tidings to the lives of many who are in trials and misfortunes.

God Bless....

'Buon Natale' Thrissur, Kerala, India 2015

The Italian term 'Buon Natale' which means, 'Merry Christmas' has become a familiar word for the Indian People particularly the Keralaite community following the entry of the 'Buon Natale' Christmas Procession conducted with the collective co-operation of the Kerala Catholic Church under the leadership of the Arch Diocese of Thrissur last year (2014) entered the Guinness Book of World Records for having the highest number of people dressed up as Santa Claus (Christmas Papa) in a single event in the whole world for the first time. It was a great matter of pride and achievement not only for the Kerala Christian Communities but also for the entire Malayalee population in the world. 

This year also the Syro-Malabar Arch Diocese has made all elaborate arrangements for the grand show of 'Buon Natale 2015'  in the cultural capital of Kerala, Thrissur. About 5000 people dressed up as Christmas Fathers and 2000 children as angels have made the show very colorful on Sunday, the 27th of December 2015. 

Please watch the videos / photos / images pictures here: 

http://buonnatale.in/

Facebook page of Buon Natale (X-Mas Carol)

Youtube Page:

Merry Christmas - Peace to the world...!!!

The Catholic Church Opens Doors to The Holy Year of Mercy (2015 Dec 8 - 2016 Nov 20)

(Logo Courtesy: Religiouslife.com)

With the Opening of the 'Great Bronze Doors' of St Peter's Basilica in Rome by Holy Father Pope Francis on Tuesday (2015 December 8th), the 'Holy Jubilee Year of Divine Mercy' has commenced officially in the Universal Catholic Church. The most auspicious day to inaugurate the The 'Holy Jubilee Year of Mercy' is the great Feast Day of (obligation) the 'Immaculate Conception' of the Blessed virgin Mother (December 8th) whose primary duty always (particularly these end-days) is to gather and guide all the stray children of the compassionate God back to HIM through repentance, penance and confession (the Holy sacrament of reconciliation). And the Holy Year of Mercy will be closed on the Great Solemnity of 'Christ the King' on November 20, 2016

This Holy Year of Divine Mercy is a golden opportunity for those who have gone afar from the everlasting Love of the Divine Father, Who like the dad of the prodigal son in the Holy Bible keeps looking always for the return of the lost children. It is the duty of every child of God, particularly the chosen one to help in the return of those children of the Heavenly Father back to Him and receive His abundant grace and Love.

We know and often say, 'to err is human, to forgive is Divine'. This statement is absolutely true. All human beings (except the Virgin Mother of Lord Jesus who is immaculate conception), are sinners. It is the very 'nature' of these human beings to commit sins. But at the same time, the 'nature' of God is to forgive and forget all the sins and shortcomings of those who truly repent. In the Syro-Malabar Qurbana we pray, to the Heavenly Father to show compassion to us according to HIS 'nature'.

The Observance of the Holy Year of Mercy in the Catholic Churches throughout the world will be done on Sunday, the 13th of december 2015. In most of the churches, the Priest will open the main doors of the churches to mark the commencement of this jubilee Year.

'Holy' Jubilee Years are observed rarely in the Catholic Church (usually once in a half century) and during these Holy Years, the Church (with its God-given authority grants special 'indulgence' for the devotees who make pilgrimages to the Church in Rome or other selected Churches in one's neighborhood. This is the most ideal chance for anyone to reconcile with the Divine Love through repentance. Because there is absolutely NO guarantee that we would get one more chance....

In East Godavari District of Andhra Pradesh, India (Visakhapatnam Arch Diocese), St Ann's Church at Jagannaickpur, Kakinada is designated as the central Church for rendering God's special forgiveness and grace during the 'Holy Year of Mercy' and will be opened by the Priest on 13-12-2015 Sunday at 8.00 am. People in the district who cannot go to other pilgrim centers, can make a pilgrimage to this Church and offer the spiritual Sacraments of Confession and Holy Mass for receiving 'indulgence' untill the closing of the Holy Year on 20-11-2016.

Serial on St Euphrasia (Evuprasiamma) Eluvathingal CMC on Shalom T V

St Euphrasia, also called as Evuprasiamma by the Malayalee faithful is the second nun-saint of the Kerala Catholic Church and the first person to be elevated to sainthood from the 'Congregation of the Mother of Carmel' (CMC) founded by St Chavara Kuriakose Elias (CMI) and Rev Fr Leopold on 13th February, 1866 in Koonammavu in Kerala state. CMC is the first indigenous religious congregation for the women in the Syro-Malabar Church of Kerala. 

Recently popular Malayalam Christian Spiritual TV Shalom started telecasting a tele-serial on St Evuprasiama titled as 'St Euphrasia, the ascetic'. The serial which is produced by the CMC Congregation is directed beautifully by Siby Yogyaaveedan who is a gifted film maker and who also won award for his earlier tele-serial on Blessed Mariam Thresia from the Governemnt of Kerala. Such serials and programs help one to grow spiritually and morally irrespective of one's religion or Calling.

Television is considered as one of the powerful tools of satan (after the mobile phone and internet) to trap the children of God. Many of our youth are getting spoiled by watching nasty and filthy shows on TV. It is a painful fact to admit that many of the mothers and grand mothers in India are addicted to cheap and worthless TV serials which are mostly aired in the evenings and it affects the time table of the families particularly the family Prayers in many houses. Many houses in Kerala are found rescheduling their prayer time in accordance with the serials' timings. If talented people come forward and join hands with spiritual TV channels, many meaningful TV programs can be made which will be helpful for the human souls and spiritual growth. The wealthy Christians also should spend their God-given riches for the production of spirituality oriented programs.

Please watch and encourage others to watch this serial daily evening at 8.30 pm (and repeated next morning at 8.00 am). Please watch and make other members of your family, friends and contacts to watch spiritual shows and programs on TV Channels like Shalom, Goodness, Divine, Athmeeya Yathra etc. This will surely save the members of your family from destruction. And whoever helps in the spiritual growth of others in any possible way will be rewarded suitably by the Lord Who shed HIS precious Blood for ALL the humanity. 

Every Christian is commissioned and commanded to share the Good News of Salvation to the far corners of the world. It is not an optional duty but a must. Unlike earlier days, we have a lot of easy and powerful tools to carryout this Mission of our Redeemer. Please remember if you cannot do any ministry work directly, even guiding others to the Lord through spiritual TV channels / websites / blogs / mobile phones etc are also ministry works that anyone can do easily. Please act now as this is the right and acceptable time... and day...!

Watch Shalom TV Live:   http://shalomtv.tv/live/

Watch Goodness TV Live:   http://www.goodnesstv.tv/

Watch Divine TV online:  http://www.divinetv.in/watch_online.html

Watch Athmeeya Yathra TV Live: http://www.ay.tv/live/


May the Good and Compassionate GOD Bless you and all your near and dear ones...!

Kanan Desham Bible Reality Quiz Game Show on Goodness TV

"Goodness TV", one of the leading Malayalam Christian Spiritual Television Network by Popular Mission's (Vincentian Congregations) Divine Retreat Center is telecasting a number of stuff that is very essential and useful for the human soul. While most of these shows are helpful for the 'Spiritual growth of the eternal pilgrims, the Bible Quiz show 'Kanan Desham' offers both Spiritual as well as some financial benefits for the devotees.

Kanan Desham has completed first season successfully and the producers are inviting application from eligible and interested candidates for the season-2. For this audition questions are aired on Goodness TV with different options. The correct choice for each questions can be sent by SMS to mobile phone number: 9744155533 or send your answers or comments to Kanandesham@gmail.com

Many Christians are of the view that such Bible and Spirituality based quiz shows are very good and the prize money offered for the participants / winners should be in par with other general entertainment shows such as 'Ningalkkum Akaam Kodeeshwaran' or 'Kaun Banega Crorepati'..! There are many rich devoted resident and non resident Christians who are generous and willing to donate or sponsor some money to be paid to the winners of such programs.

By increasing the prize money to the participants (winners) more and more people will show interest to participate in the quiz show and it will motivate them to study the Bible deeply. Giving some financial gift for the poor but devoted faithful will also be an act that will please the Lord our God.

Please watch and encourage others to watch Spiritual Shows as far as possible which are always good for the body, mind and soul. Avoid ugly and nasty TV shows which are a threat not only to the individual but also to the society. 

Please watch Goodness TV Online: https://www.youtube.com/channel/

May God Bless all...!

How to Pray the Holy Rosary Devoutly for getting Abundant Blessings

How to Recite the Holy Rosary Prayer piously for receiving Guaranteed Blessings from Blessed Virgin Mother of God?

Rosary Prayer is a special devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mother Mary taught and gifted by the great ancient Saints and monks of the Church, practiced by millions of Catholic Christian believers world-wide. Those devotees who experience the fruit of this devotion naturally become the ambassadors of this powerful pious practice and share it with others so that all people will reap the abundant fruit of this devotion easily and quickly without any conditions. 

Holy Mother Mary has promised many special Blessings and Benefits for anyone who recites the Rosary Prayer with proper meditations. Now-a-days more and more people even from the Protestant and Pentecostal denominations who earlier used to deny the Blessed Virgin Mother are realizing the undeniable part held by the Mother of the Saviour of the world who is the co-redeemer in the redemption and are becoming her ardent devotees. Many people are very keen to be in her powerful and unfailing hands of protection and are curious to learn the Holy Rosary Prayer and are asking 'How to recite the Rosary Prayer devoutly' and draw umpteen number of Blessings from the Holy Queen of the Universe. 

Before learning to Pray the Holy Rosary Prayer, let me remind you the guarantee which it offers, 'NO ONE WHO REMAINS IN THE DEVOTION OF THE MOST BLESSED VIRGIN MOTHER MARY AND PRAYS THE ROSARY REGULARLY WILL BE DOOMED AND HE/SHE AND HIS/HER NEAR AND DEAR WILL DEFINITELY BE SAFE AND SOUND FROM ALL PHYSICAL, SPIRITUAL AND MENTAL DISEASES AND DANGERS...!

Note: Though the Rosary Prayer is recited in a universal proforma throughout the world, one can make it more effective and meaningful as per one's personal relationship with the Mother of God when praying and meditating in person. 

Please make sure that all the prayers are done from the heart not just the lips.

1. To start the Prayer, the first thing one has to do is to 'Make the Sign of the Cross'.

2. Utter the creed (vow of faith).

3. One Our Father ... 3 Hail Mary.... one Glory be...

4. Choose different mysteries to be meditated according to the day / season.

              .... to be continued....

US National Catholic Youth Conference (NCYC) 2015: Regsiter Online

The National Catholic Youth Conference (NCYC) of America is a grand spiritual based program for the Catholic High School-aged teenagers and their adult chaperones. The NCYC meet is held once in two years. It is a powerful three day experience of Prayer, Community and Empowerment of the youth and their chaperones.

Elaborate arrangements are underway for the three day National Catholic Youth Conference of 2015 (NCYC-2015) to be held in Indianapolis from November 19-21 with the theme, Here I am Lord / Aqui Estoy Senor. As more than 23,000 youngsters and their chaperones attended the previous NCYC-2013 the organizers are expecting a greater number of participants this year.

The Conference includes attractive programs like keynote presentations, workshops and other recreational activities including concerts and exhibitions along with spiritual activities such as Prayers, Holy Mass, Sacrament of Confessions, Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament etc. It is a golden opportunity for the teenaged youth to know, love and serve the Lord who is Eternal Love. Parents, guardians and Teachers are requested to motivate the teenagers of the high school age to participate in the conference.

Online Registrations are open Now and please make registration through this link: 

http://www.ncyc.info/registration/index.htm

For the latest updated information about the conference, please check the official website:

http://www.ncyc.info/registration/index.htm

Also please check the official Facebook Page of the NCYC 2015 for recent updates.

All the Priests, Religious and the faithful are requested to encourage as many candidates as possible to participate in such Spiritual programs to protect their valuable souls of our beloved teenagesrs from distruction.

World Meeting Of (Catholic Christian) Families 2015, Philadelphia.

World Meeting Of Families (WMOF) 2015 Congress is to be held in Philadelphia in the United States on 22nd, 23rd, 24th and 25th of September 2015. This is the largest Catholic Christian gathering in the world. The very concept of this family Congress was originally conceived by St John Paul II in 1992 with an aim to strengthen the sanctity of the Christian families around the globe in Faith and Love. The first meeting of the world families (WMOF) was celebrated successfully in Rome in 1994. From then onwards the world congress of families is held once in three years. 

At a time when the Christian values and morality is disappearing from the society, The families that gather from different nationalities of the world exchange their thoughts on the importance of the holy matrimonial living and rearing up the offsprings in the Love and Faith in the Creator. They pray together, discuss different issues and listen to the sermons from Internationally acclaimed figures.

The WMOF is split into two groups based on the age of the participants. Those aged 18 and above can attend the 'Theological Adult Congress' and those in the age group of 6 to 18 can join the concurrent youth congress. On Saturday September 26 night the 'Festival of Families' will be celebrated in an intercultural and colorful manner. Holy Father Francis is expected to attend this grand celebration of family festival. On 27th Sunday the Congress witnesses the Papal Holy Mass by the Holy Father.

Registrations are still gong on. Please click this link to register online:

Registrations can be made individually or in group. 

If God has blessed you sufficiently and if you can afford to attend this Meeting, please do not neglect to do so.

If you are capable to sponsor the expenses of one or some families who cannot afford to attend this congress, please do not hesitate. 

Please share this message to your friends and contacts and encourage them to participate in this remarkable and unique meeting.

For more information please check:

http://www.worldmeeting2015.org/

May God Bless you and everyone in your family....!

DUKRANA THIRUNNAL- The Solemn Feast of Apostle St Thomas July 3rd

(St Thomas tomb in Mylapore, Chennai)

The Syriac word 'Dukhrana' means remembrance or memory. On Dukhrana Thirunnal Day on July 3rd, Syro-Malabar Christians commemorate the martyrdom of St Thomas, their beloved Apostle every year.

Dukhrana Thirunnal is the Great Solemn Feast of St Thomas, one of the 12 Apostles chosen by Lord Jesus Christ. He was sent by the Lord to spread His Gospel of Eternal Salvation to the people of India in AD 52. According to the Church history, it was on a July 3rd the apostle was martyred on Parangi Malai in Madras (now St Thomas Mount in Chennai). It is a great day of high significance for the Christians in India particularly the South Indian Christians and Syrian Christians of Kerala. 

The Solemn Festival Day of St Thomas is observed piously and spiritually with great pomp and gaiety. It is a holiday for all the institutions run by the Catholic Church in Kerala. For the Catholic Christians of Kerala, it is a Holy day of obligation. Holy Masses are celebrated in most Churches in par with the Sunday schedules. 

There are spiritual celebrations and huge rush of pilgrims on St Thomas mount (where the Apostle was assassinated) and at Santhome Church, Mylapore Chennai (where the sacred body is buried and a holy relic is venerated). Both these places are witnessing a number of great miracles by the intercession of the Saint with the power of the Holy Name of Lord Jesus.

The Syro-Malabar Catholic communities in the US and other European countries also commemorate this Feast with much importance probably with more enthusiasm and activities than that of their mother land Kerala. The efforts taken by the loyal Keralite Catholic believers of the Lord in the USA and other Countries to share the Culture and tradition of our Faith to our younger generation by conducting Bible quizzes, Bible Conventions, special Retreat and renewal programs for youth etc and to make the youngsters participate in them is very laudable in the sight of the Lord.

It is a matter of great delight for all the people of the Lord world-wide to know that St Joseph Syro Malabar Forane Catholic Church, Houston, Texas is conducting a 'Summer Retreat' by name "Shalom Festival 2015" on July 3rd, 4th and 5th. To encourage the children of God to seek the Creator in the young age, a leadership training program by name 'TORCH' (Texas Oklahoma Regional Conference - Houston) is being held at Waxahachie in Texas on July 17-20, 2015. For registration and more info please check the website of the church: http://torch.stthomasdya.org/

Justifying the old saying of our past generation that heavy downpour will accompany 'Dukrana Perunnal', the Feast Day of St Thomas today (03-07-2015) also  witnessed showers of blessings in the form of rain in entire Kerala state. 

May the Holy Name of God be Glorified. Amen...!

US Supreme Court Ruling on same-sex marriage to attract God's wrath

While the recent judgement of the US supreme court legalizing gay marriages in all the states of America is celebrated by a minority section of people throughout the world, there is another section of the faithful world-wide, who are praying God intensely not to punish the people of America for the ruling issued by the supreme court judges against the Holy Will of the Creator, challenging His Commandments and HIS very purpose of creating men and women.

By citing the work of some historians that evinced the continual adaptation of the institution, the supreme court of the USA decided to recognize gay (same-sex) marriages a constitutional right on Friday the 26th of June 2015. This declaration was received with jubilation by some gay couples and activists including some globally acclaimed personalities. 

This judgement by the supreme court of the USA which is considered and honored as the international champions for safeguarding and upholding justice is a great blow to all who expected Divine justice from them. The very constitution of the land was framed basing on the Holy word of God and this abominable announcement is an open declaration of war with the Lord who has been protecting the country and who drove it to prosperity and development.

If we make a simple look at the past history of the mankind, it is evidently clear when and how the people tested the Patience of the compassionate Lord and attracted His rage. God has punished the entire humanity with floods during the time of Noah for the increasing number of adultery the people committed and later sent fire from heaven to destroy the people unable to bear the sin of homosexuality sparing the righteous Lot. 

In-order to please a minor section of perverted persons who are physically, mentally, spiritually and socially ill, and to cover their abominable and sinful unions as 'legal marriage' the supreme court judges have violated the command of the Most Holy and Almighty God. Hence for the sake of the land (USA) and the world, all those concerned are requested in the Holy Name of the Lord to do the needful. 

All the God fearing people are requested to Pray earnestly for the abolition of this law and to send their petitions, requests and supports to the 'Alabama Justices' who are against this and who only can put an end to this disgracing and shameful law.

Please find below the addresses and contact phone numbers of Alabama Supreme Court Justices:

http://www.medjugorje.com/medjugorje-today/christian-worldview/

Mark 10:23-27; Matt 19:23-24. Wealthy Christians and Kingdom of God

There is a misbelief among most Christians in the world including many Chosen ones for the Religious lives and Priesthood that money and material prosperity is the right of all Christians and so is a Gift from God. Many Christians who are rich and wealthy refuse to realize that Money and wealth is a gift of satan to the children of God to detach them from the loving company and presence of God the Father and it is an obstacle to the road to the Kingdom of God.

If you are a Christian, you are bound to read, meditate, understand and try to follow the 'Word of God' in the Holy Bible. Though the Holy Bible guarantees a peaceful and blissful life for those who honour the Holy Name and Word of God, money and possessions are not promised by God. If anyone believes in God and His begotten Son for worldly riches he / she is very unfortunate. 

Our Lord Jesus Christ has clearly said many times about the danger of having / seeking earthly riches and money. The Lord says in St Matthew's (6:24) and St Luke's Gospel (16:13) "No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money"

It is mentioned clearly that having money and riches is an obstacle for anyone to go to the 'Kingdom of God'. There are several Versus in the Holy Bible that warn children of God to abstain from running after money as done by most pagans. Unfortunately there is great percentage of rich Christians who do not believe seriously in the judgement and life after death. It is their money that make them feel that this life (with all its pleasures) is permanent. 

The good and upright rich young man who has scrupulously kept all the 10 commandments came to Lord Jesus seeking 'Eternal life' and returned grieving... only because he was rich and was not willing to part-with his earthly possessions. Here we can see that the young man was faultless in the eyes of the Lord and his only hindrance to Heaven was his wealth..! If this is the condition of a honest person in the very eyes of the Lord, what will be the condition of those Christians who do not hesitate to commit any crimes or corruptions to amass wealth inappropriately.

If this is the condition of a 'virtuous person' in the 'sight of the Lord', what will the condition of an ordinary Christian who does not follow all the commandments of God?

When the upright young man went away sadly, the Lord declared solemnly, "It is very difficult for the rich to enter the Kingdom of God". (St Mark 10:24) "It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than a rich man to enter the Kingdom of God"...!