St. Joseph Syro-Malabar Mission

Introduction

The Syro-Malabar Catholic community in Coventry, part of the Syro-Malabar Catholic Eparchy of Great Britain, was officially established in 2010, though it had gathered for prayer and fellowship before that.

History

The first Syro-Malabar mass in Coventry was held on the second Sunday of September 2004, with only 48 attendees present. In September 2006, the church bought a new sound system for the choir, which progressed with more members.

In 2009, a new church priest joined the community. In April 2010, all families were organized into sub-units, each with designated leaders. In 2015, a new chaplain joined, expanding Malayalam Mass to be held every fourth Sunday. In 2016, the chaplain visited and blessed every family within the community.

In 2017, the community was elevated to mission status with the blessings and presence of the Major Archbishop of the Syro-Malabar Church. During the one and a half years of the COVID-19 pandemic, all Sunday Masses were held at Saint John Vianney Church, where the chaplain served as parish priest. Since 2021, the choir in Coventry moved a step ahead with live orchestration including keyboard and guitar.

Music and liturgy

The Malayalam choir service for the Holy Qurbana began in July 2005 with Biju Yohannan and Rosamma. Three singers joined the choir team in December 2005. The choir added a rhythm composer to support its live orchestra.

Sacraments and pastoral care

The parish offers the sacrament of Reconciliation (Confession). The parish provides preparation for Marriage. The parish offers the Anointing of the Sick. The parish provides funeral services.

Visiting

The youth ministry, SMYM, was established in 2018. The Women's Forum is in the beginning stage of formation in the mission. A daily Bible reading group is organized by the mission.