Syro-Malabar Church Mandates Strict Adherence to Synod-Approved Holy Week Liturgy
In a significant directive, Major Archbishop of the Syro-Malabar Church, Mar Raphael Thattil, has issued a formal letter to all archbishops and bishops, emphasizing the imperative to conduct Holy Week liturgical celebrations exclusively according to the text approved by the synod. This move aims to standardize practices across the church's archeparchies and eparchies, ensuring uniformity and fidelity to ecclesiastical decisions.
Addressing Non-Compliance with Approved Texts
The letter highlights concerns that certain previously published texts, which have not been sanctioned by the synod, are still being utilized in some locations. Additionally, it notes that during ceremonies, rubrics not included in the approved text are being practiced. Mar Raphael Thattil earnestly requests and reminds all archbishops and bishops to ensure, in a spirit of communion and fidelity, that Holy Week celebrations are conducted faithfully following the synod-approved text. He further advises them to provide necessary directions to priests within their respective eparchies or archeparchies to enforce this mandate.
Background and Implementation of Revised Liturgy
The directive stems from a synod session held from January 6 to 11, 2025, which entrusted the Commission for Liturgy with the task of preparing and publishing a revised text for Holy Week. In response, the commission developed the revised Taksa of the Great Week in Malayalam, offering it in two formats:
- One version integrates the text of the Liturgy of the Hours.
- The other version is presented without such integration.
This revised Taksa was promulgated by the Major Archbishop and officially came into effect on April 13, 2025. The promulgation abrogates all previously used texts, making the new version the sole authoritative guide for Holy Week observances. The enforcement of this text is seen as a critical step towards maintaining liturgical integrity and unity within the Syro-Malabar Church, reinforcing the authority of synodal decisions in ecclesiastical practices.
