EVENTS

The grand reunion event, Sukrutham 2025 — the 95th reunion celebration of the Syro-Malankarites in the Arabian Region Together (SMART) — concluded in Bahrain with immense blessings and joy. The two-day event, held on October 2nd and 3rd, 2025, brought together over 200 delegates from five GCC countries and more than 1,200 participants from Bahrain. 

 

The inaugural ceremony took place at the Cathedral of Our Lady of Arabia, Awali, in the esteemed presence of His Lordship Bishop Aldo Berardi, Apostolic Vicar of Northern Arabia (AVONA), and His Beatitude Moran Mor Baselios Cardinal Cleemis Catholicos, Major Archbishop of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church. 

The ceremony commenced with the flag hoisting by His Beatitude Cardinal Cleemis, followed by the symbolic lighting of the Sukrutham 2025 lamp, received by H.E. Bishop Aldo Berardi from representatives of the UAE. Rev. Dr. John Thundiyath, Co-Episcopa, received the Catholicate flag, while Rev. Fr. Jacob Kalluvila received the Papal flag, marking the official opening of the celebrations. 

 

The first day’s proceedings featured a short introduction and ice-breaking session among participants from different GCC countries, followed by an audience with His Beatitude Cardinal Cleemis. The day concluded with an evening prayer service. 

 

On October 3rd, the second day began with an engaging workshop conducted by Rev. Fr. Sebastian Edayathu, Assistant Director of Caritas India, New Delhi, focusing on the theme of community building and service. The session concluded with group discussions and presentations. 

In the afternoon, a solemn Liturgical Reception was accorded to His Beatitude Cardinal Cleemis and H.E. Bishop Aldo Berardi, followed by the Holy Mass celebrated by His Beatitude Cardinal Cleemis, with the blessed presence of Bishop Berardi. All priests from the participating parishes co-celebrated the Holy Mass. 

During the Holy Mass, twelve newly trained altar servers received blessings from His Beatitude Cardinal Cleemis and began their altar ministry. Thirteen children also received their First Holy Communion from His Beatitude during this sacred celebration. 

 

The public meeting held in the evening was presided over by His Beatitude Moran Mor Baselios Cardinal Cleemis Catholicos. H.E. Bishop Aldo Berardi delivered the Benedictory Address, while H.E. Mr. Vinod K. Jacob, Ambassador of India to the Kingdom of Bahrain, delivered the Keynote Address. The event was graced by dignitaries including Dr. Hassan Eid Bokhammas, Member of Parliament, Kingdom of Bahrain, along with community leaders, and representatives from various Christian denominations. 

 

To commemorate the historic occasion, a Souvenir was released by His Beatitude Cardinal Cleemis, with the first copy presented to Bishop Aldo Berardi. 

 

During the event, SMART Excellence Awards were presented to distinguished individuals for their exemplary contributions in community service, education, youth empowerment, cultural promotion, and social outreach across the GCC region. Awardees included: 

● Dr. Varghese Kurian (Bahrain) 

● Dr. Shibu Zacharia (UAE) 

● Mr. Roy Poocheril (Bahrain) Additionally, Mr. Binu Thomas received the Arabian Malankara Icon Award, Mr. Baburajan K.G. was honored with the Catholic Recognition of Friendship Award, and Mr. Francis Kaitharam received a Special Token of Appreciation. 

 

Distinguished guests delivered felicitation speeches, appreciating the efforts of the organizing committee and the vibrant participation of the faithful. 

 

In his concluding address, His Beatitude Cardinal Cleemis announced that the next Sukrutham gathering will be hosted by Qatar in the year 2028, and ceremoniously handed over the Catholicate flag to Rev. Fr. Michael Vadakkeveettil and community representatives from Qatar. Mr. Biren Philip, General Secretary of SMART, has extended Vote of Thanks.

The two-day celebration concluded with colorful cultural performances presented by participants from various GCC countries, marking the end of a spiritually enriching and joy-filled reunion.