The first Laity Conference of  Syro Malabar Church, Chennai was convened on  Sunday, 6^th November 2011 at Holy Family Convent Mat. Hr. Sec School,  Keelkattalai, Chennai, under the leadership of Fr Saji George Vattakuzhy, Convener.

The Conference was inaugurated by Mar Mathew Arackal, Chairman Commission for Laity.   In his inaugural address, the Bishop stressed upon the fact that the Syro Malabar Catholics outside Kerala should not be ashamed to be associated with the activities of the Church in Chennai.  He also mentioned the need   for the Laity to spare some time for God, from their busy schedules and that economically well of members should not hesitate to come forward to help the needy brothern.  Another important aspect which the Bishop emphasized was that the aim of the Church was not only in the spiritual growth of the Laity but  that their socio-economic development  was of equal importance.

Laity Conference Chennai – Gallery

Mar Pauly Kannookadan, Bishop in-charge of Chennai Mission delivered the Presidential Address. Adv. V C Sebastian, Secretary Laity Commission delivered the keynote address. Msgr Jose Palatty, Co-coordinator, Chennai Mission, Mr. Jacob Chakkathara, Secretary, Pastoral Council, Mr. Francis Kurian, President, Family Unit Central Committee, Mr. K P Chakkapan, Laity President, Bangalore Unit, also spoke on the occasion.

The Conference was followed  by group discussion, general presentation and Holy Mass.

Mr. Mathew Chacko, Programme Coordinator proposed the vote of thanks.

by Gracy Varghese (Little Mount Parish)