Kerala CM Inaugurates 700th Anniversary of Kollam Diocese, India’s Oldest Latin Catholic See

Kollam, Kerala: Chief Minister V. D. Satheesan inaugurated the 700th anniversary celebrations of the Kollam Diocese, the oldest Latin Catholic diocese in India, at a solemn function here on [date]. Describing the lighting of the ceremonial lamp as “a divine opportunity to bear witness to history,” the Chief Minister underscored the diocese’s enduring legacy in the region’s spiritual and social life.

Addressing the gathering, Mr. Satheesan highlighted the significant contributions of the Catholic Church to India’s socio-economic and educational progress. “The Church helped eradicate social subjugation through literacy, and led society out of darkness and into light through its acts of love and compassion,” he said, commending the institution’s historical role in promoting education and social reform.

Archbishop Thomas J. Netto of the Trivandrum archdiocese, who presided over the function, lauded the State government’s prompt interventions in improving the living conditions of coastal communities, particularly in areas like Neendakara. He also appreciated the government’s swift response in search and rescue operations for fishers lost at sea. “The government’s vigilance in ensuring the protection of the lives and property of fishermen, as well as developing the infrastructure of coastal areas, including Neendakara, is praiseworthy,” the Archbishop said.

The event saw the presence of Kollam Bishop Paul Antony Mullassery, Emeritus Bishop Stanley Roman, Ministers Shibu Baby John, Bindu Krishna, and P. C. Vishnunath, along with MLA Vishnu Mohan and Mayor A. K. Hafeez. Jubilee convener Fr. Joseph John read the Papal message from the Vatican Ambassador to India, which was translated into Malayalam by the diocese PRO, Fr. Lazer S. Pattakkad.

A key highlight was the lighting of the ‘Christu Jyothi Jubilee Flame’, designed to travel to every household in the diocese during the anniversary year. Archbishop Netto lit the flame alongside the unveiling of a portrait of Our Lady of Mount Carmel. Bishop Mullassery then handed over the jubilee torch and portrait to general convener Fr. Xavier Lazer, marking the official commencement of the celebrations.

The 700th anniversary celebrations of the Kollam Diocese reflect a rich heritage of faith and service, with the institution continuing to play a vital role in the spiritual and social fabric of Kerala.