The leadership of the Syro-Malabar Church has condemned ongoing protests in the Archeparchy of Ernakulam-Angamaly against Archbishop Joseph Pamplany, the prelate appointed to resolve a bitter dispute over the celebration of the Holy Qurbana, the Church’s Eucharistic liturgy.
Newsroom (June 02, 2025, 09:27, Gaudium Press) Major Archbishop Raphael Thattil, head of the Eastern-rite Catholic Church, appointed Archbishop Pamplany as apostolic vicar of Ernakulam-Angamaly—the Church’s primatial see—shortly after his election in January 2023. His mission was to mediate the conflict between local clergy and the Synod over the implementation of a “uniform rite” for the Syro-Malabar liturgy.
Church Decries Protests as “Against Gospel Values”
In a strongly worded statement, the Syro-Malabar hierarchy criticized clergy who have resisted Pamplany’s efforts, calling their actions damaging to the Church’s unity and reputation.
“Such protests and demonstrations are not in keeping with the Gospel values. These tactics only tend to destroy the faith of an entire generation,” the statement read.
The Church urged dissenting groups to engage in dialogue rather than public demonstrations, warning that continued defiance harms the archeparchy’s dignity and centuries-old heritage.
Dispute Over Liturgical Direction
At the heart of the conflict is the Synod’s 2021 decree mandating a unified liturgy, requiring priests to celebrate parts of the Mass ad orientem (facing the altar) rather than versus populum (facing the people), as had been the local custom for decades.
While the Church insists the uniform rite is binding, Archbishop Pamplany has reportedly offered concessions to ease tensions. The hierarchy affirmed that his actions carry the full authority of the Synod.
“Archbishop Pamplany is making sacrificial efforts in this cause and needs space and support from local priests and laity,” the statement said, calling for trust in the broader Church’s wisdom.
Priests’ Council Defends Resistance
Fr. Kuriakose Mundadan, secretary of the Ernakulam-Angamaly Presbyteral Council—which supports the versus populum tradition—defended their actions, claiming Archbishop Pamplany had abruptly left a meeting with 300 priests on 23 May.
“We stayed put until he met us again on Friday,” Fr. Mundadan said. The priests demanded the disbanding of the current curia, and Pamplany reportedly gave a written assurance that it would not interfere in liturgical matters until a follow-up meeting on 5 June.
Broader Implications for Church Unity
The standoff highlights deeper tensions between local traditions and centralized authority in the Syro-Malabar Church. While the Synod seeks uniformity, many priests and laity in Ernakulam-Angamaly view the changes as an imposition undermining their liturgical heritage.
As the 5 June meeting approaches, the Church faces a critical test of whether dialogue can resolve the impasse—or if the rift will deepen further.
- Raju Hasmukh with files from The Tablet
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