Syro-Malabar Church Defends Archbishop Amid Unrest
The Syro-Malabar Church condemns protests against Archbishop Joseph Pamplany, overseeing the Ernakulam-Angamaly Archdiocese, concerning the phased introduction of a unified Holy Mass. Opposition persists despite the Church's plea for peace, as protests escalate, with accusations and defamation of church leaders, threatening ecclesiastical harmony.
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The Syro-Malabar Church has firmly condemned ongoing protests targeting Archbishop Joseph Pamplany, who is responsible for the Ernakulam-Angamaly Archdiocese. These demonstrations stem from his decision to implement a unified Holy Mass gradually, a move opposed by some church members.
Despite efforts to introduce this change peacefully, tensions have escalated. Protesters have occupied St. Mary's Basilica in Kochi, disrupting sacred rites, and engaging in what the Church describes as 'anti-Christian' behavior. The protests include displaying defamatory images of Archbishop Pamplany and Major Archbishop Raphael Thattil.
The Church insists there are proper channels for grievances and stresses support for Archbishop Pamplany, encouraging dialogue over hostility. The Archdiocese of Thalassery echoes this sentiment, urging adherence to Christian values and condemning personal attacks on church leadership.