Mon Jan 06 16:07:14 UTC 2025: ## Syro-Malabar Church Synod Begins Amidst Internal Conflict
**Kochi, Kerala, January 6, 2025** – The week-long synod of the Syro-Malabar Church commenced today at Mount St. Thomas amidst escalating internal conflict. A faction of priests, defying the official hierarchy, are staging protests against what they describe as misuse of power and unacceptable appointments within the Archdiocese.
The 33rd synod, officially inaugurated tomorrow by Major Archbishop Raphael Thattil, will see the participation of 54 bishops. However, a group of priests, organized under Almaya Munnettam, are holding counter-protests, including a Mass at St. Joseph’s Church in Kalamassery to mark the Feast of Epiphany and launch their Jubilee celebrations, “Pilgrims of Hope.”
The Syro-Malabar Church Media Commission condemned the rebel priests’ actions, accusing them of breaking their vows and inciting unrest among the faithful. The Commission highlighted the peaceful acceptance of the synod-approved Mass in 34 dioceses.
The rebel priests have announced plans for a relay hunger strike starting tomorrow and threatened to encircle the synod venue on January 10 if their demands are not met. They accuse the bishops of damaging the Archdiocese and demand changes in leadership and appointments.
Conversely, a pro-synod lay community group, Marthoma Nazrani Sangham, will protest the rebels’ actions tomorrow in front of the archdiocesan headquarters. This demonstrates the deep division within the Church. The conflict highlights a significant power struggle within the Syro-Malabar Church and its potential impact on its future.
First Piper 