OUR PATRON SAINT
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Saint Peter
Saint Peter, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ, is renowned as the first leader of the early Church. Originally a humble fisherman, he was called by Jesus to become a "fisher of men." Known for his profound faith, Peter's journey was marked by moments of both doubt and strength, culminating in his pivotal role in spreading Christianity. Our church, dedicated to St. Peter, seeks to embody his spirit of faith, resilience, and leadership in our community.
OUR POPE
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Pope Francis
Pope Francis, the 266th Pope of the Roman Catholic Church, is celebrated for his humility, compassion, and dedication to social justice. Elected in 2013, he is the first Pope from the Americas and the first Jesuit Pope. Known for his emphasis on mercy, care for the poor, and interfaith dialogue, Pope Francis inspires millions with his call to live out the Gospel through love and service. Our church looks to his example as we strive to create a welcoming community grounded in faith and compassion.
OUR CARDINAL
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His Beatitude Baselios Cardinal Cleemis
His Beatitude Baselios Cardinal Cleemis is the Major Archbishop-Catholicos of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church and Major Archbishop of Trivandrum. Ordained a priest in 1986, he has a Doctorate in Ecumenical Theology from the University of St. Thomas Aquinas, Rome. Elevated to Cardinal in 2012 by Pope Benedict XVI, Cardinal Cleemis has dedicated his life to serving the Church and fostering spiritual growth. He has authored several books and played a pivotal role in strengthening Malankara Catholic missions in North America.
OUR BISHOP
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His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Philipos Mar Stephanos
Most Rev. Philipos Mar Stephanos, born on May 9, 1952, in Kerala, India, was ordained a priest in 1979 and holds a Doctorate in Moral Theology from the Academia Alfonsiana, Rome. He has served in various roles including Rector of the Minor Seminary, Director of the Malankara Catholic Youth Movement, and Director of Pushpagiri Hospital. He was appointed Auxiliary Bishop of Tiruvalla in 2010 and then became the Bishop of the Eparchy of St. Mary, Queen of Peace, USA-Canada in 2017. Fluent in Malayalam, English, Italian, German, and Syriac, he is dedicated to pastoral care and theological education.
OUR FOUNDER
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Venerable Archbishop Mar Ivanios
Venerable Mar Ivanios (1882-1953), the founder of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church, is celebrated for his unwavering commitment to Christian unity and spiritual revival. Born as Geevarghese Panickerveetil, he was ordained as a priest in 1908 and later consecrated as a bishop in the Malankara Orthodox Church. Driven by a vision of ecclesiastical unity, he initiated a historic reunion with the Catholic Church, culminating in 1930 with the establishment of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church. On March 14th, 2024, Pope Francis declared Venerable Archbishop Mar Ivanios as ‘venerable’ as part of the canonization process.