Malta is a small but beautiful island nation located in the Mediterranean Sea, known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture. The country has a strong Catholic heritage, with the majority of the population identifying as Roman Catholic. Malta has a long history of Catholicism, dating back to the 1st century AD. The country is home to more than 365 historic churches, cathedrals, and shrines, showcasing its deep-rooted Catholic traditions. Catholicism has had a profound impact on Maltese culture, shaping the country’s values, customs, and traditions. Many Maltese festivals and celebrations are deeply rooted in Catholicism.
The Syro-Malabar Church has its roots in the evangelization efforts of Thomas the Apostle in 1st-century AD India. The church uses a variant of the East Syriac Rite, which dates back to 3rd-century Edessa, Upper Mesopotamia. This rich heritage is reflected in the community’s liturgical celebrations and traditions.
Those who came to Malta all the way from Kerala got really isolated here since number of Keralite were very few. Yet, they built up a bond in between, as a family. They gathered together in fraternity whenever they could to do so. They spent attending holy mass with the Maltese, although couldn’t follow the language, on off days and Sundays. They used to arrange Syro Malabar Holy Qurbana, whenever there were availability of a visiting Malayali priest in Malta! The initiative was of His Excellenvy Bishop Stephen Chirappanath, to form a community in Malta, who was appointed by the Pope as the Apostolic Visitator for the Syro-Malabar faithful in Europe and procurator of the Syro-Malabar Church.
The St. Thomas Syro-Malabar community in Malta was established in December 2016, marking a significant milestone in the spiritual journey of the Indian community in Malta. Rev. Fr. Binoj Mulavarickal, who then was studying in Rome, was appointed as in-charge of the community. He excelled in his roll to attend the spiritual needs and giving guidance, as majority of the community was youngsters. First of all, he found space for liturgy in various Maltese churches across Malta and Gozo islands. He formed SMYM, a Christian organization for youth, to bind them in spiritual values. He used to celebrate Holy Qurbana on a monthly basis and later on he tried to come every week. Rev. Fr. Jacob Palakkaran also played a crucial role in attending to the community’s spiritual needs, celebrating Qurbana every Sunday since February 2018.
In 2018, the community celebrated its first Community Day, which featured a Mass at the Oratory of the Sacred Heart of Jesus in Mosta. The event was attended by notable figures, including Archbishop Charles Scicluna and Then Indian High Commissioner Rajesh Vaishnaw. The celebration included a cultural program and an Indian food fest, showcasing the community’s rich heritage.
While we hold dear the traditions of the Syro Malabar Church, we are also deeply committed to contributing to the broader Maltese community. Inspired by the values of love, service, and compassion, we actively seek ways to give back to the island that has graciously welcomed us.
As we look to the future, the St Thomas Syro Malabar Community, Malta, remains steadfast in its mission to be a source of light, hope, and faith. We are committed to preserving the rich traditions of our ancestors while embracing the opportunities to grow and thrive in a changing world.
With God’s grace and the support of our members, we aspire to continue making a positive impact, both within our community and beyond. Together, we will carry forward the legacy of St Thomas the Apostle and the spirit of St Paul’s mission, sharing the love of Christ with all.