The Syro-Malabar Rite

The Syro-Malabar Rite

The Syro-Malabar Church is one of the 23 Eastern Catholic Churches in full communion with the Catholic Church. It is an ancient Christian community with its roots in the Apostle Thomas, who is believed to have evangelized in India.

  1. History: The Syro-Malabar Church traces its origins to the St. Thomas Christian community in India, which dates back to the early centuries of the Christian era. Tradition holds that St. Thomas the Apostle established Christian communities along the Malabar Coast.
  2. Liturgical Tradition: The Syro-Malabar Church follows the East Syriac liturgical tradition, which is also known as the Chaldean or Assyrian tradition. The liturgy is celebrated in the Malayalam language and is known for its richness and ancient roots.
  3. Autonomous Status: The Syro-Malabar Church has its own hierarchy and is headed by a Major Archbishop. It obtained major archiepiscopal status, allowing greater autonomy within the Catholic Church, in 1992.
  4. Faith and Doctrine: The Syro-Malabar Church adheres to the same core beliefs and doctrines as the Roman Catholic Church, as outlined in the Nicene Creed. It is in full communion with the Pope in Rome.
  5. Major Archiepiscopal See: The head of the Syro-Malabar Church is titled the Major Archbishop, who has the authority and responsibilities similar to those of a patriarch. The Major Archbishop is elected by the Synod of Bishops.
  6. Cultural Heritage: The Syro-Malabar Church has a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its liturgy, art, music, and traditions. The church has contributed significantly to Indian Christian culture.
  7. Diaspora Communities: With migration and the Indian diaspora, Syro-Malabar communities can be found in various parts of the world. They continue to maintain their unique identity while participating in the universal Catholic Church.
  8. Synodal Structure: The Syro-Malabar Church operates with a synodal structure, involving the Synod of Bishops in decision-making processes. The Synod plays a crucial role in addressing matters related to the church’s governance and pastoral activities.

Syro-Malabar Catholics and the USCCB

While the Syro-Malabar Catholic Church is an Eastern Catholic Church with a distinct liturgical and cultural heritage, it is fully part of the universal Catholic Church and is in full communion with the Pope. Syro-Malabar Catholics in the United States are part of the broader American Catholic community, represented by the USCCB. In the U.S., Syro-Malabar parishes often collaborate with the Latin Rite dioceses and participate in the broader mission of the Church. The USCCB’s advocacy and pastoral guidelines benefit Syro-Malabar Catholics as well, as they address issues like religious freedom, the sanctity of life, and the rights of immigrant communities, which are particularly relevant to the growing Syro-Malabar diaspora in the U.S.