The Knanaya community in Ireland is preparing to welcome Auxiliary Bishop of the Knanaya Catholic Church, Mar Joseph Pandarassery, for a pastoral visit running from Thursday to Saturday.
The bishop arrived at Dublin Airport yesterday evening and was received by committee office bearers and representatives led by President Jose Kochalungal and Secretary Alex Mon Vattukulamthil. This was followed by a KCAI representative meeting and reception in Tallaght.
This evening, Holy Mass will be celebrated at Tallaght Incarnation Church, followed by a meeting with KCYL (Knanaya Catholic Youth League) representatives at the Purif Hall.
Tomorrow, Saturday October 11, a community service will be held at 10.30am at the RD Church, followed by a public meeting at the RD Convention Centre. Over 1,200 members from 19 units across Ireland are expected to attend, with cultural programmes also scheduled.
The Knanaya Catholic Association of Ireland (KCAI) is making extensive preparations to ensure the success of the general assembly and accompanying events, which represent a significant gathering for the Knanaya community in the country.
The pastoral visit and Ezra 2025 gathering provide an opportunity for the community to come together for worship, fellowship and cultural celebration, strengthening bonds among Knanaya Catholics living across Ireland.
The Knanaya community is an endogamous group within the Syro-Malabar Catholic Church with origins in Kerala, and has established a significant presence in Ireland in recent years.