“Apostle St. Thomas landed in India in 52 AD?” That’s the surprising origin story of the Syro-Malabar Catholic Church. Today we’re standing before Saint Joseph Syro Malabar Catholic Church. It is a testament to that vibrant faith right here in Houston.
Saint Joseph Syro Malabar Catholic Church serves Houston’s Syro-Malabar community. This church isn’t just a place of worship. It is a cultural and spiritual hub for many families.
Let’s delve into its significance. The Syro-Malabar Church traces back to St. Thomas the Apostle. He arrived in India and established seven Christian communities in Kerala. This makes it one of the oldest Christian traditions. It is in full communion with Rome. The Syro-Malabar Catholic Church stands as the second-largest Eastern Catholic Church. Only the Ukrainian Church is larger. It boasts 4.6 million believers.
The church’s journey to Houston reflects a broader migration story. Starting in the 1960s, people from India began moving to the United States. Keralites and Syro-Malabar Catholics arrived in the early 1970s. Appealing weather and job opportunities drew many to Houston in the 80s. They initially joined local Latin parishes. By the late 80s, hundreds of Syrian Catholics settled in Houston.
Recognizing the spiritual needs of the Syro-Malabar community, St. Kuriakose Syro Malabar Catholic Mission of North Houston formed in February 2015. It started as a small vibrant community. Now it serves over 20 families in North Houston. They celebrate Holy Qurbana every Sunday. The community emphasizes faith formation. They offer catechism classes and youth groups. They also provide retreats.
Saint Joseph Syro Malabar Catholic Church holds significant importance within its Eparchy. It is the second-largest parish in the Eparchy. It is the largest in Texas. This led to the appointment of an assistant vicar. The church also hosted the 2019 Syro Malabar National Convention.
In April 2014, Mar Jacob Angadiath elevated the Houston parish. It became a Forane Church. This was one of nine such designations. This was due to the Eparchy’s geographical vastness. It allowed for better coordination. Under St. Joseph Forane, Houston, there are three Syro Malabar Churches and Missions. These are in San Antonio, Edinburg and Pearland, Texas.
Reverend Fr. Johnykutty George Puleessery currently serves as the vicar. Before Houston, he was the Chancellor of Syro-Malabar Catholic Eparchy of St. Thomas of Chicago. He also served as vicar in Philadelphia.
Saint Joseph Syro Malabar Catholic Church exemplifies a mission. It serves the spiritual needs of the Syro-Malabar community. It promotes spiritual growth and community service. It encourages social justice and intellectual development. This church is more than just a building. It is a living testament to faith, community, and heritage.