Syro–Malabars angry over Latin Catholics refusing worship space

Syro–Malabar Christians in the capital are enraged over the Latin Catholic group for refusing permission to worship at their churches.

The Syro–Malabars which is the oldest denomination in India comprise of Keralites who form the largest St Thomas Christian community in India.

Unfortunately, due to not having a diocese outside Kerala, they are placed under the Latin Catholic diocese with the Archbishop overseeing the matters in Delhi.

According to reports carried by Christian news sources, the Syro–Malabars were stopped from offering Mass at St Michael's Church in Prasad Nagar, two months ago and this sparked the conflict.

“For the last eight Sundays, our priests and congregations have not been allowed to offer Mass. To not attend Mass is a sin for every practicing Christian,” said Father Jose Edassery of the Syro–Malabar group.

“Some of them were even assaulted on September 5 when they were on their way to St Michael’s.”

Syrians claim the Latin Church suddenly hiked fees for using their churches for mass. The fee was raised to Rs 1,500 per mass from the earlier Rs 300. Some others point that the aim of Syro Malabars to acquire a diocese of their own in Delhi, with the special permission from Pope, might have upset the Latin Catholics who feel, this might weaken their power.

When contacted the Archbishop of Delhi, Vincent M Concessao, he said: “The archdiocese has not ordered that our Syro–Malabar brothers be turned away from churches, nor have we hiked fees. These are false allegations."

While the Syro–Malabars continue their protest, word has reached the Vatican and the Papal Nuncio (Pope’s Ambassador) in Delhi.