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{{Use Indian English|date=October 2013}}
'''MCBS - Missionary Congregation of the Blessed Sacrament'''
{{Use dmy dates|date=October 2013}}


The '''Missionary Congregation of the Blessed Sacrament''' (MCBS) is an indigenous clerical congregation of the [[Syro-Malabar Catholic Church]] in southern [[India]].
== The Birth of MCBS ==
In the beginning of the twentieth century itself the Eucharistic-centered re-awakening in the life of the Church, initiated by the Holy Pope Pius X (1902–1914), had its impact on the Syro-Malabar Church.<ref>See the Official site here http://www.smcim.org/</ref> There was also a new missionary awareness and enthusiasm in this Apostolic Church. It was in this historical setting that the Missionary Congregation of the Blessed Sacrament (MCBS) was born.
God has been preparing two great men (mahatmas) in the persons of Father Mathew Alakalam and Father Joseph Paredom to take up this new charism in the Church, who in fulfilment of their life-long religious and missionary aspirations outlined a new way of religious life in the Church: the Missionary Congregation of the Blessed Sacrament.
In 1933, the jubilee year of the redemptive sacrifice of our Lord, on Sunday 7 May, the feast of St. Joseph’s patronage, in the mission church at Mallappally, Mar James Kalacherry, bishop of Changanacherry, established the Missionary Congregation of the Blessed Sacrament.
The idea of a new religious community originated in Fr. Mathew Alakalam. His companion, Fr. Joseph Paredom co-operated with him in nurturing it. They, with the blessing and permission of Mar James Kalachery, the late bishop of Changanacherry, had the congregation founded on 7 May 1933 at Mallappally. Before long the residence was shifted to Kaduvakulam, and the Little Flower Ashram there is considered to be the Mother House of the congregation.
The founding Fathers of the congregation have entrusted to its members, as their spiritual heritage, a religious life marked by love and single-minded devotion to the Eucharistic Lord and missionary vitality. Its charism is to live and proclaim the Eucharistic Mystery that is celebrated, to gather the children of God around the altar, to ‘praise God in the midst of His Church, to take part in her sacrifice and to eat the Lord’s supper’ (SC 10) and to uphold the real presence of the Lord in the Blessed Sacrament. The members try to obtain this through their dedicated life and various apostolates.
The congregation has, at present, 412 professed members. There are 37 novices and 172 minor seminarians. It has 90 Houses and Institutions in various dioceses in and outside India.<ref>for more Details and Pictures See the Link http://mcbsonline.wordpress.com</ref>


== MCBS on the Road to Growth ==
== The birth of MCBS ==
In the beginning of the twentieth century, there was a [[Eucharist]]ic-centered re-awakening in the life of the Catholic Church, initiated by [[Pope Pius X]] (1903-1914). This movement, with a new missionary awareness and enthusiasm, had an impact on the [[Syro-Malabar Church]] in India. It was in this historical setting that the Missionary Congregation of the Blessed Sacrament (MCBS) was born.<ref>[https://mcbsemmaus.wordpress.com MCBS Emmaus website]</ref>


Father Joseph Paredom, was born on 15th December 1887 at Mutholapuram, Kerala, India. He became a priest on 28thDecember 1914. Father Mathew Alakulam was born on 30th March 1888 at Poovathode, India; he was ordained on 21st December 1913.<ref>[https://zionmcbs.com/index.php/Home/founder MCBS Zion website]</ref> The two priests founded the Missionary Congregation of the Blessed Sacrament (MCBS) on 7th May 1933. Mar James Kalacherry, bishop of [[Changanacherry]], offocially established the Missionary Congregation of the Blessed Sacrament on that date.<ref>[https://kcbc.co.in/KCBC/ReligiousDetails/21 Kerala Catholic Bishops’ Council website]</ref>
In 1978 , the district of Shimoga in Karnataka, under the jurisdiction of Mananthavady diocese, was entrusted to MCBS for pastoral care and evangelization.


The congregation was originally based at Mallappally but was soon moved to Kaduvakulam, and the Little Flower Ashram there is considered to be the Mother House of the congregation.
In 1989 the missionary activities of the congregation were extended to Rajasthan. The district of Sirohi is entrusted to the congregation for evangelization.


Today MCBS, a religious congregation of the pontifical right, is known as the [[Benedictines]] of the Syro-Malabar Church due to her unique liturgical, Eucharistic, and missionary charism and contributions.
The ‘Rule of Life’ of the congregation, revised and renewed after a careful study of the charism, nature, spirit, tradition and founders, and according to the directives given by the Congregation for the Oriental Churches, was promulgated on 25 May 1989. The Holy See approved the


== Founders of MCBS ==
Rule of Life for an experimental period of seven years and raised the congregation to pontifical Status on 2 December 1989.


=== Very Rev Fr Mathew Alakulam MCBS ===
In 1992 the districts of Satara and Solapur in Maharashtra , under the jurisdiction of the diocese of Kalyan, were entrusted to the congregation for pastoral care and evangelization.


==== Priestly ministry ====
On 4 May 1995 the congregation was divided into two regions, namely MCBS Emmaus<ref>For details visit http://mcbsemmaus.wordpress.com</ref> Region and MCBS Zion<ref>For details visit http://zionmcbs.org</ref> Region.


After becoming a priest in 1913, Fr Mathew served as assistant parish priest at Kurusumkal, Koonammavu, Mundankal, Cheruvandoor, Elamthottam, and Pravithanam and as parish priest at Poovathode, Edamaraku, and Elamthottam. Since 1919 he was professor of [[Syriac studies|Syriac]] at Puthenpally Seminary. When Mar James Kalassery became Bishop of Changanassery, Fr Mathew was his first secretary. He was superior of the [[Franciscan Third Order]], and established the Orphanage Press and Priests’ Provident Fund in the diocese of Changanassery.
Jeevalaya, MCBS’ Major Seminary, was inaugurated on 3 July 1996.<ref>Visit the Site for more Details http://jeevalaya.info/default.aspx</ref>


==== Literary contributions ====
Shencottai Mission in South Tamil Nadu under the jurisdiction of the diocese of Tukala was started in the year 1996 for the pastoral care of the poor and afflicted.


Fr Mathew was sub-editor of the magazine Eucharist and Priest published from Puthenpally Seminary and was the founding editor of Vedaprachara Madhyasthan, the official tongue of Changanassery Archdiocese. He wrote many articles and authored 24 theological books.
On 2 December 1996 the two regions were raised to the status of provinces, namely, MCBS Emmaus Province and MCBS Zion Province .


==== Death ====
On 18 December 1996 Thomas Elavanal, then Superior General, was nominated the first bishop from the Congregation. Mar Thomas Elavanal was consecrated Bishop of Kalyan on 8 February 1997.


Fr Mathew died on 21 December 1977 and his mortal remains were buried in the church at the MCBS mother house, Kaduvakkulam.
On 21 May 1997 the first Provincial synaxis of both provinces was held to elect the Provincial Superiors and their teams.


=== Rev Fr Joseph Paredom MCBS ===
On 28 October 1998 the Holy See gave definite approbation to the Constitution and Directory of the MCBS.


==== Shepherd ====
‘SANATHANA’ MCBS Theologate, Thamarassery was inaugurated on June 7, 2004.


After his ordination in 1914, Father Joseph served at several parishes including Mutholapuram, Bharananganam, Muttuchira, Thathampally, Kainady, Vadakara, Chemmalamattam, and Marangattupally.
On 7 May 2007 , the Platinum Jubilee of the Congregation was inaugurated at Mother House, Kolladu, Kottayam.


==== Superior general ====
On 28 July 2007 , Adilabad Mission , the first missionary field in Andrapradesh was started in the feast of Blessed Alphonsa


Father Joseph was the first Superior General of the Missionary Congregation of the Blessed Sacrament and led the congregation during its initial 22 years.
On 29 August, Fr. Joseph Arumachadath, the then Vice Rector of Sanathana MCBS Theologate, Thamarassery was nominated as the first bishop of the Bhadravati Diocese, Karnataka.


==== Death ====
2007 September 8 – Missionaries to Switzerland .


Father Joseph died on 21 August 1972. His mortal remains were kept at the MCBS Mother House, Kaduvakulam, Kottayam.
On 25 October 2007 – Consecration of Mar Joseph Arumachadath and the inauguration of the Bhadravati Diocese, Karnataka


=== Exhumation and reburial ===
On 7 May 2008 – Platinum Jubilee celebrations of the Congregation came to its end at MCBS Generalate, Aluva.<ref>For Pictures and further Details see the Link http://mcbsonline.wordpress.com/history/</ref>


The mortal remains of our venerable founders, Fr. Mathew Alakulam and Fr. Joseph Paredam were exhumed from the tombs at Kaduvakulam and reburied temporarily in the tombs prepared in the Lisieux Minor Seminary chapel at [[Athirampuzha]],<ref>For pictures and details see the link http://mcbslisieux.wordpress.com/</ref> on 12 May 2009 in the presence of Mar [[Joseph Perumthottam]], the Arch Bishop of Changanacherry.<ref>For Picture and More refer http://mcbsonline.wordpress.com/founders/</ref>
== Founders of MCBS ==
=== Very Rev Fr Mathew Alakulam MCBS ===
==== Childhood ====


== Growth and development of MCBS ==
Fr Mathew Alakulam, the architect of the Missionary Congregation of the Blessed Sacrament (MCBS), was born on 30 th March 1888 at Poovathode near Bharananganam. After his primary and high school education he joined the Puthenpally Seminary as a scholastic of Changanassery Archdiocese. On 21 December 1913 he was ordained a priest by Mar Thomas Kurialassery.


In 1978, the district of [[Shimoga district|Shimoga]] in [[Karnataka]], under the jurisdiction of [[Mananthavady]] diocese, was entrusted to MCBS for pastoral care and evangelization.
==== Priestly Ministry ====


In 1989 the missionary activities of the congregation were extended to [[Rajasthan]]. The district of [[Sirohi district|Sirohi]] is entrusted to the congregation for evangelization.
Fr Mathew, a zealous young shepherd, served as assistant parish priest at Kurusumkal, Koonammavu, Mundankal, Cheruvandoor, Elamthottam, and Pravithanam and as parish priest at Poovathode, Edamaraku, and Elamthottam. Since 1919 he was professor of Syriac at Puthenpally Seminary. When Mar James Kalassery became Bishop of Changanassery he found none other than Fr Mathew as his first secretary. He was superior of the Franciscan Third Order, and the mastermind behind the Orphanage Press and Priests’ Provident Fund in the diocese of Changanassery.


On 25 May 1989, the ‘Rule of Life’ of the congregation, revised and renewed after a careful study of the charism, nature, spirit, tradition and founders, and according to the directives given by the [[Congregation for the Oriental Churches]], was promulgated. The [[Holy See]] approved the Rule of Life for an experimental period of seven years and raised the congregation to pontifical Status on 2 December 1989.
==== Foundation Of MCBS ====


In 1992 the districts of [[Satara district|Satara]] and [[Solapur district|Solapur]] in [[Maharashtra]], under the jurisdiction of the diocese of Kalyan, were entrusted to the congregation for pastoral care and evangelization.
On 7 th May 1933 Fr Mathew Alakulam together with Fr Joseph Paredom founded the Missionary Congregation of the Blessed Sacrament (MCBS) at Mallappally Mission church. Today MCBS, a religious congregation of the pontifical right, is known as the Benedictines of the Syro-Malabar Church due to her unique liturgical, Eucharistic, and missionary charism and contributions.


On 4 May 1995 the congregation was divided into two regions, the MCBS Emmaus<ref>For details visit http://mcbsemmaus.wordpress.com</ref> Region and the MCBS Zion Region.
==== Loud Speaker Of The Holy Spirit ====
Even when Fr Mathew was a young priest he was renowned for his inspiring speeches. His writings and sermons on Holy Spirit were so famous that he came to be known as the ‘Loud Speaker of the Holy Spirit’. Attuned to the voice of the Spirit and walking long distances barefooted, he preached hundreds of retreats in every nook and corner of Kerala.


On 3 July 1996, Jeevalaya (MCBS’ Major Seminary) was inaugurated.<ref>[https://zionmcbs.com/index.php/Home/jeevalaya MCBS Zion website]</ref>
==== Literary Contributions ====


Shencottai Mission in South [[Tamil Nadu]] under the jurisdiction of the diocese of Tukala was started in the year 1996 for the pastoral care of the poor and afflicted.
Like St Ephrem Fr Mathew was a powerful instrument in the hands of the Holy Spirit. He was sub-editor of the magazine Eucharist and Priest published from Puthenpally Seminary and was the founding editor of Vedaprachara Madhyasthan, the official tongue of Changanassery Archdiocese. He wrote many articles and authored 24 theological books.


On 2 December 1996 the two regions were raised to the status of provinces, namely, MCBS Emmaus Province and MCBS Zion Province.
==== Missionary And Mystic Of The Eucharist ====


On 18 December 1996 [[Thomas Elavanal]], then Superior General, was nominated the first bishop from the Congregation. Mar Thomas Elavanal was consecrated Bishop of Kalyan on 8 February 1997.
Fr Mathew, a great mystic and missionary of the Eucharist, often exclaimed in joy and wonder, “praised be to the Most Holy Mystery of the Eucharist full of goodness and glory. Let there be worship and glory to the Most Blessed Sacrament as innumerable times as there are stars in heaven and clouds in sky”. He was called for eternal reward on 21 December 1977 and his mortal remains were buried in the church at the MCBS mother house,Kaduvakkulam.


On 21 May 1997 the first Provincial synaxis of both provinces was held to elect the Provincial Superiors and their teams.
=== Rev Fr Joseph Paredom MCBS ===
==== Childhood ====


On 28 October 1998 the Holy See gave definite approbation to the Constitution and Directory of the MCBS.
Father Joseph Paredom, one of the most brilliant and saintly sons of the Syro-Malabar Church , was born on 15 December 1887 at Mutholapuram in Palai diocese. After high school studies at Puthuvely and Mannanam, on 9 January 1908 he joined the Puthenpally Seminary as a scholastic of the Changanassery Archdiocese. There he found his closest friend and the greatest personality, the Most Holy Eucharist. On 28 th December 1914 he was ordained a priest by Mar Thomas Kurialassery.


On 7 June 2004, ‘SANATHANA’ MCBS Theologate, [[Thamarassery]] was inaugurated.
==== Shepherd ====


On 7 May 2007, the Platinum Jubilee of the Congregation was inaugurated at Mother House, Kolladu, [[Kottayam]].
Father Joseph, a good shepherd who won hearts of his sheep by his love and gentleness, praiseworthily served at various parishes such as Mutholapuram, Bharananganam, Muttuchira, Thathampally, Kainady, Vadakara, Chemmalamattam, and Marangattupally.


On 28 July 2007, Adilabad Mission, the first missionary field in [[Andhra Pradesh]] was started in the feast of [[Blessed Alphonsa]].
==== Founder ====


On 29 August, Fr. Joseph Arumachadath, the then Vice-Rector of Sanathana MCBS Theologate, Thamarassery was nominated as the first bishop of the [[Bhadravathi, Karnataka|Bhadravati]] Diocese, Karnataka.
The deep desire of Father Paredom to become a religious was consented on 19 April 1933 by Mar James Kalacherry, the Archbishop of Changanacherry. Led by the Holy Spirit, on 7 May 1933 Fr Mathew Alakalam and Father Joseph Paredom founded the Missionary Congregation of the Blessed Sacrament (MCBS).


On 8 September 2007 - Missionaries were sent out to [[Switzerland]].
==== Superior General ====


On 25 October 2007 - Consecration of Mar Joseph Arumachadath and the inauguration of the Bhadravati Diocese, Karnataka
Trusting fully in the Eucharistic Jesus and heeding always to the whisperings of the Holy Spirit, Father Joseph, the first Superior General of the Missionary Congregation of the Blessed Sacrament, courageously led the congregation during its initial 22 years.


On 7 May 2008 - Platinum Jubilee celebrations of the Congregation came to its end at MCBS Generalate, [[Aluva]].<ref>For Pictures and further Details see the Link http://mcbsonline.wordpress.com/history/</ref>
==== Prophet Of The Most Holy Eucharist ====
On 18 Dec 2009 MCBS missionaries started mission in Tanzania, [[Africa.]]<ref>For Pictures and further Details see the Link https://mcbsziontanzania.org/history/</ref>
At present there are around 20 priests working in Tanzania from the two provinces called Emmaus and [[Zion.]]<ref>For Pictures and further Details of zion fathers in tanzania see the Link https://mcbsziontanzania.org/history/</ref>


== Nature of MCBS ==
As John the apostle at the bosom of Jesus in the Upper Chamber (Jn 13,25), during his old-age Father Joseph spent most of his time before the Blessed Sacrament, thanking, adoring, praising, and glorifying Jesus in the Most Holy Eucharist. Like a branch united to the vine (Jn 15,5) he experienced God’s love and intimacy in a special way in the Holy Eucharist, which is evident from his words, “How lovely to dwell in the presence of the Blessed Sacrament! What there can be more joyful than this! That is what God has given us”. Light Lit On The Mountain Father Joseph Paredom, the role model for the Eucharistic Millennium and the Eucharistic Year, received his eternal crown on 21 August 1972. His mortal remains were kept at the MCBS Mother House, Kaduvakulam, Kottayam. Today, like a light lit on the mountain, Father Joseph illumines everyone in the Third Millennium by teaching us, “the goal of apostolic endeavour is that all who are made sons of God by faith and baptism should come together to praise God in the midst of his Church, to take part in the Sacrifice and to eat the Lord’s Supper” (SC 10).
===Ideals===
The MCBS’s ideal is to consecrate the entire life to the realisation of God’s Kingdom (Matt 6, 10), placing the Eucharist at the core of its being.


The MCBS draws inspiration from the age-old spiritual wisdom of eastern Christian monasticism and from the quest of the sages ([[rishi]]s) of India for the absolute. As such, it works to reach out, in and through the Eucharist, to the God-experience of our father St. Thomas, the Apostle, in his faith-surrender "My Lord and My God" (John20,28). They focus on living a religious life marked by love and single minded devotion (bhakti) to the Eucharistic Lord and missionary vitality. In 2023, the congregation has two provinces, MCBS Zion and MCBS Emmaus.<ref>[http://snehadana.org/about-us.php MCBS Telangana, Snehadana Society website]</ref>
=== Exhumation and Reburial ===


===Works===
The mortal remains of our venerable Founders, Fr. Mathew Alakulam and Fr. Joseph Paredam were exhumed from the tombs at Kaduvakulam and reburied temporarily in the tombs prepared in our Lisieux Minor Seminary chapel at Athirampuzha,<ref>For Pictures and Details See the Link http://mcbslisieux.wordpress.com/</ref> on 12 May 2009 in the presence of Mar Joseph Perumthottam, the Arch Bishop of Changanacherry.<ref>For Picture and More refer http://mcbsonline.wordpress.com/founders/</ref>
The core areas of MCBS activity include; Liturgical Apostolate, Eucharistic Retreat, Parish Apostolate, Proclamation of Good News, Mission towards unity, Social Apostolate, Inculturation, and Dialogue with other religions.


The MCBS mission works are mainly among the poor, illiterate, and the marginalized. The congregation works in several Indian states: (including Andrapradesh, Arunachalpradesh, Assam, Delhi, Gujarat, Karnataka, Kerala, Maharashtra, Meghalaya, Rajasthan and Tamilnadu)<ref>[https://zionmcbs.com/index.php/Home/abroadindia MCBS Zion website]</ref> and throughout the world (including Africa,<ref>[https://mcbsziontanzania.org/history/about African Mission of MCBS]</ref> America, Australia, Germany, Italy, Spain and Switzerland).<ref>[https://www.mcbs.in/#!/aboutmcbs MCBS official website, Retrieved 2023-06-27]</ref>
== Charism & Nature of MCBS ==
In this Congregation our ideal is to consecrate the entire life to the realisation of God’s Kingdom (Matt 6, 10), placing the Eucharist at the core of our being.


===Theological Seminaries===
Drawing inspiration from the age-old spiritual wisdom of Eastern Christian Monasticism and from the quest of the sages (rishis) of India for the Absolute, the MCBS tries to reach out, in and through the Eucharist, to the God-experience of our father St. Thomas, the Apostle, in his faith-surrender “My Lord and My God” (John20,28).
In 1996, MCBS opened the Jeevalaya Seminary. The foundation stone for the seminary was laid on 27th April 1992 and Jeevalaya was inaugurated on 3rd July 1996.<ref>[https://jeevalaya.in/about_jip Jeevalaya Institute of Philosophy website]</ref><ref>[https://jeevalayaseminary.webs.com Jeevalaya Seminary website]</ref>


In 2001, MCBS opened the Theological Seminary, Sanathana - Divya Karunya Vidyapeetham (DKV) at Thamarassery. On 24th May 2001 Mar Thomas Elavanal, Bishop of Kalyan, laid the foundation stone for the seminary. On 7th June 2004, Mar Paul Chittilapilly, Bishop of Thamarassery, inaugurated the DKV's first academic year 2004-2005. The institute is affiliated with the faculty of Theology of the [[Pontifical Urbaniana University]], Rome.<ref>[https://sanathanadkv.com/dkv/ DKV Theological Seminary website]</ref>
Our Charism, sown by the Spirit as a seed in our founders, grew up to the spiritual patrimony of our Congregation. They have entrusted to our keeping for our spiritual heritage, a religious life marked by love and single minded devotion (bhakti) to the Eucharistic Lord and missionary vitality.


== Bishops from MCBS ==
This charism is to live and proclaim the Eucharistic Mystery we celebrate, to gather the children of God around the altar to “praise God in the midst of His Church, to take part in the sacrifice and to eat the Lord’s supper” and to uphold the real presence of the Lord in the Blessed Sacrament.


=== Superior General ===
Liturgical Apostolate, Eucharistic Retreat, Parish Apostolate, Proclamation of Good News, Mission towards unity, Inculturation, and Dialogue with other religions and social Apostolate form the core areas of MCBS activity.
In 2023, the Superior General is Father Augustine Paikattu.<ref>[https://www.mcbs.in/#!/aboutmcbs MCBS official website, Retrieved 2023-06-27]</ref>


Our mission works are mainly among the poor, illiterate, and the marginalized in various parts of India’s vast mission fields entrusted to us for the pastoral care by the local bishops.<ref>See this Link for More Details on CHARISM & NATURE http://mcbsonline.wordpress.com/charism/</ref>

== Bishops from MCBS ==
=== Mar Thomas Elavanal MCBS, Bishop of Kalyan ===
=== Mar Thomas Elavanal MCBS, Bishop of Kalyan ===
On 18 December 1996 Thomas Elavanal, then Superior General, was nominated the first bishop from the Congregation. Mar Thomas Elavanal was consecrated Bishop of Kalyan on 8 February 1997.
On 18 December 1996 [[Thomas Elavanal]], then Superior General, was nominated as bishop. He was consecrated Bishop of Kalyan on 8 February 1997.<ref>[https://kalyandiocese.com/about/mar-thomas-elavanal/ Diocese of Kalyan website]</ref>


=== Mar Joseph Arumachadath MCBS, Bishop of Bhadravathy ===
=== Mar Joseph Arumachadath MCBS, Bishop of Bhadravathy ===
On 29 August, Fr. Joseph Arumachadath, the then Vice Rector of Sanathana MCBS Theologate, Thamarassery was nominated as the first bishop of the Bhadravati Diocese,Karnataka. On 25 October 2007 – Consecration of Mar Joseph Arumachadath and the inauguration of the Bhadravati Diocese, Karnataka.
On 29 August 2007, Fr. Joseph Arumachadath, the then Vice-Rector of Sanathana MCBS Theologate, Thamarassery, was nominated as bishop of the Bhadravati Diocese, Karnataka. He was consecrated on 25 October 2007.<ref>[https://www.bhadravathidiocese.org/home/profile/4 Bhadravathi Diocese website]</ref>


== References ==
== References ==
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== External links ==
== External links ==
* [http://mcbsonline.wordpress.com/ MCBS Apostolate of Documentation and Research]
* [http://mcbsonline.wordpress.com/ MCBS Apostolate of Documentation and Research]
* [http://mcbscongregation.com/ Missionary Congregation of the Blessed Sacrament]
* [http://mcbsemmaus.wordpress.com/ MCBS Emmaus Province]
* [http://mcbsemmaus.wordpress.com/ MCBS EMMAUS PROVINCE]
* [http://zionmcbs.org/ MCBS Zion Province]
* [http://zionmcbs.org/ MCBS ZION PROVINCE]
* [http://mcbslisieux.wordpress.com/ Lisieux Minor Seminary, Athirampuzha]
* [http://mcbslisieux.wordpress.com/ Lisieux Minor Seminary, Athirampuzha]
* [http://karunikan.wordpress.com/ Karunikan Group of Publications, India]
* [http://karunikan.wordpress.com/ Karunikan Group of Publications, India]
* [http://jeevalaya.info/ Jeevalaya Institute of Philosophy]
* [http://jeevalaya.info/ Jeevalaya Institute of Philosophy]
* [http://www.smcim.org/ Syro Malabar Church]
* [http://www.smcim.org/ Syro Malabar Church]
*[http://www.mcbsziontanzania.org/ ZION MCBS FATHERS TANZANIA]


<!--- Categories --->
<!--- Categories --->
[[Category:Syro-Malabar Church]]

Written by Fr Nelson Madathikandam MCBS





[[Category:Articles created via the Article Wizard]]
[[Category:Syro-Malabar Catholic Church]]

Latest revision as of 17:55, 6 March 2024

The Missionary Congregation of the Blessed Sacrament (MCBS) is an indigenous clerical congregation of the Syro-Malabar Catholic Church in southern India.

The birth of MCBS[edit]

In the beginning of the twentieth century, there was a Eucharistic-centered re-awakening in the life of the Catholic Church, initiated by Pope Pius X (1903-1914). This movement, with a new missionary awareness and enthusiasm, had an impact on the Syro-Malabar Church in India. It was in this historical setting that the Missionary Congregation of the Blessed Sacrament (MCBS) was born.[1]

Father Joseph Paredom, was born on 15th December 1887 at Mutholapuram, Kerala, India. He became a priest on 28thDecember 1914. Father Mathew Alakulam was born on 30th March 1888 at Poovathode, India; he was ordained on 21st December 1913.[2] The two priests founded the Missionary Congregation of the Blessed Sacrament (MCBS) on 7th May 1933. Mar James Kalacherry, bishop of Changanacherry, offocially established the Missionary Congregation of the Blessed Sacrament on that date.[3]

The congregation was originally based at Mallappally but was soon moved to Kaduvakulam, and the Little Flower Ashram there is considered to be the Mother House of the congregation.

Today MCBS, a religious congregation of the pontifical right, is known as the Benedictines of the Syro-Malabar Church due to her unique liturgical, Eucharistic, and missionary charism and contributions.

Founders of MCBS[edit]

Very Rev Fr Mathew Alakulam MCBS[edit]

Priestly ministry[edit]

After becoming a priest in 1913, Fr Mathew served as assistant parish priest at Kurusumkal, Koonammavu, Mundankal, Cheruvandoor, Elamthottam, and Pravithanam and as parish priest at Poovathode, Edamaraku, and Elamthottam. Since 1919 he was professor of Syriac at Puthenpally Seminary. When Mar James Kalassery became Bishop of Changanassery, Fr Mathew was his first secretary. He was superior of the Franciscan Third Order, and established the Orphanage Press and Priests’ Provident Fund in the diocese of Changanassery.

Literary contributions[edit]

Fr Mathew was sub-editor of the magazine Eucharist and Priest published from Puthenpally Seminary and was the founding editor of Vedaprachara Madhyasthan, the official tongue of Changanassery Archdiocese. He wrote many articles and authored 24 theological books.

Death[edit]

Fr Mathew died on 21 December 1977 and his mortal remains were buried in the church at the MCBS mother house, Kaduvakkulam.

Rev Fr Joseph Paredom MCBS[edit]

Shepherd[edit]

After his ordination in 1914, Father Joseph served at several parishes including Mutholapuram, Bharananganam, Muttuchira, Thathampally, Kainady, Vadakara, Chemmalamattam, and Marangattupally.

Superior general[edit]

Father Joseph was the first Superior General of the Missionary Congregation of the Blessed Sacrament and led the congregation during its initial 22 years.

Death[edit]

Father Joseph died on 21 August 1972. His mortal remains were kept at the MCBS Mother House, Kaduvakulam, Kottayam.

Exhumation and reburial[edit]

The mortal remains of our venerable founders, Fr. Mathew Alakulam and Fr. Joseph Paredam were exhumed from the tombs at Kaduvakulam and reburied temporarily in the tombs prepared in the Lisieux Minor Seminary chapel at Athirampuzha,[4] on 12 May 2009 in the presence of Mar Joseph Perumthottam, the Arch Bishop of Changanacherry.[5]

Growth and development of MCBS[edit]

In 1978, the district of Shimoga in Karnataka, under the jurisdiction of Mananthavady diocese, was entrusted to MCBS for pastoral care and evangelization.

In 1989 the missionary activities of the congregation were extended to Rajasthan. The district of Sirohi is entrusted to the congregation for evangelization.

On 25 May 1989, the ‘Rule of Life’ of the congregation, revised and renewed after a careful study of the charism, nature, spirit, tradition and founders, and according to the directives given by the Congregation for the Oriental Churches, was promulgated. The Holy See approved the Rule of Life for an experimental period of seven years and raised the congregation to pontifical Status on 2 December 1989.

In 1992 the districts of Satara and Solapur in Maharashtra, under the jurisdiction of the diocese of Kalyan, were entrusted to the congregation for pastoral care and evangelization.

On 4 May 1995 the congregation was divided into two regions, the MCBS Emmaus[6] Region and the MCBS Zion Region.

On 3 July 1996, Jeevalaya (MCBS’ Major Seminary) was inaugurated.[7]

Shencottai Mission in South Tamil Nadu under the jurisdiction of the diocese of Tukala was started in the year 1996 for the pastoral care of the poor and afflicted.

On 2 December 1996 the two regions were raised to the status of provinces, namely, MCBS Emmaus Province and MCBS Zion Province.

On 18 December 1996 Thomas Elavanal, then Superior General, was nominated the first bishop from the Congregation. Mar Thomas Elavanal was consecrated Bishop of Kalyan on 8 February 1997.

On 21 May 1997 the first Provincial synaxis of both provinces was held to elect the Provincial Superiors and their teams.

On 28 October 1998 the Holy See gave definite approbation to the Constitution and Directory of the MCBS.

On 7 June 2004, ‘SANATHANA’ MCBS Theologate, Thamarassery was inaugurated.

On 7 May 2007, the Platinum Jubilee of the Congregation was inaugurated at Mother House, Kolladu, Kottayam.

On 28 July 2007, Adilabad Mission, the first missionary field in Andhra Pradesh was started in the feast of Blessed Alphonsa.

On 29 August, Fr. Joseph Arumachadath, the then Vice-Rector of Sanathana MCBS Theologate, Thamarassery was nominated as the first bishop of the Bhadravati Diocese, Karnataka.

On 8 September 2007 - Missionaries were sent out to Switzerland.

On 25 October 2007 - Consecration of Mar Joseph Arumachadath and the inauguration of the Bhadravati Diocese, Karnataka

On 7 May 2008 - Platinum Jubilee celebrations of the Congregation came to its end at MCBS Generalate, Aluva.[8] On 18 Dec 2009 MCBS missionaries started mission in Tanzania, Africa.[9] At present there are around 20 priests working in Tanzania from the two provinces called Emmaus and Zion.[10]

Nature of MCBS[edit]

Ideals[edit]

The MCBS’s ideal is to consecrate the entire life to the realisation of God’s Kingdom (Matt 6, 10), placing the Eucharist at the core of its being.

The MCBS draws inspiration from the age-old spiritual wisdom of eastern Christian monasticism and from the quest of the sages (rishis) of India for the absolute. As such, it works to reach out, in and through the Eucharist, to the God-experience of our father St. Thomas, the Apostle, in his faith-surrender "My Lord and My God" (John20,28). They focus on living a religious life marked by love and single minded devotion (bhakti) to the Eucharistic Lord and missionary vitality. In 2023, the congregation has two provinces, MCBS Zion and MCBS Emmaus.[11]

Works[edit]

The core areas of MCBS activity include; Liturgical Apostolate, Eucharistic Retreat, Parish Apostolate, Proclamation of Good News, Mission towards unity, Social Apostolate, Inculturation, and Dialogue with other religions.

The MCBS mission works are mainly among the poor, illiterate, and the marginalized. The congregation works in several Indian states: (including Andrapradesh, Arunachalpradesh, Assam, Delhi, Gujarat, Karnataka, Kerala, Maharashtra, Meghalaya, Rajasthan and Tamilnadu)[12] and throughout the world (including Africa,[13] America, Australia, Germany, Italy, Spain and Switzerland).[14]

Theological Seminaries[edit]

In 1996, MCBS opened the Jeevalaya Seminary. The foundation stone for the seminary was laid on 27th April 1992 and Jeevalaya was inaugurated on 3rd July 1996.[15][16]

In 2001, MCBS opened the Theological Seminary, Sanathana - Divya Karunya Vidyapeetham (DKV) at Thamarassery. On 24th May 2001 Mar Thomas Elavanal, Bishop of Kalyan, laid the foundation stone for the seminary. On 7th June 2004, Mar Paul Chittilapilly, Bishop of Thamarassery, inaugurated the DKV's first academic year 2004-2005. The institute is affiliated with the faculty of Theology of the Pontifical Urbaniana University, Rome.[17]

Bishops from MCBS[edit]

Superior General[edit]

In 2023, the Superior General is Father Augustine Paikattu.[18]

Mar Thomas Elavanal MCBS, Bishop of Kalyan[edit]

On 18 December 1996 Thomas Elavanal, then Superior General, was nominated as bishop. He was consecrated Bishop of Kalyan on 8 February 1997.[19]

Mar Joseph Arumachadath MCBS, Bishop of Bhadravathy[edit]

On 29 August 2007, Fr. Joseph Arumachadath, the then Vice-Rector of Sanathana MCBS Theologate, Thamarassery, was nominated as bishop of the Bhadravati Diocese, Karnataka. He was consecrated on 25 October 2007.[20]

References[edit]

  1. ^ MCBS Emmaus website
  2. ^ MCBS Zion website
  3. ^ Kerala Catholic Bishops’ Council website
  4. ^ For pictures and details see the link http://mcbslisieux.wordpress.com/
  5. ^ For Picture and More refer http://mcbsonline.wordpress.com/founders/
  6. ^ For details visit http://mcbsemmaus.wordpress.com
  7. ^ MCBS Zion website
  8. ^ For Pictures and further Details see the Link http://mcbsonline.wordpress.com/history/
  9. ^ For Pictures and further Details see the Link https://mcbsziontanzania.org/history/
  10. ^ For Pictures and further Details of zion fathers in tanzania see the Link https://mcbsziontanzania.org/history/
  11. ^ MCBS Telangana, Snehadana Society website
  12. ^ MCBS Zion website
  13. ^ African Mission of MCBS
  14. ^ MCBS official website, Retrieved 2023-06-27
  15. ^ Jeevalaya Institute of Philosophy website
  16. ^ Jeevalaya Seminary website
  17. ^ DKV Theological Seminary website
  18. ^ MCBS official website, Retrieved 2023-06-27
  19. ^ Diocese of Kalyan website
  20. ^ Bhadravathi Diocese website

External links[edit]

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