- 18 May, 2026
Kozhikode, May 18, 2026: The Kerala Region Latin Catholic Council (KRLCC) launched its Silver Jubilee celebrations in Kozhikode with a strong appeal for greater political representation of the Latin Catholic community in Kerala’s governance structures.
During the inaugural conference, KRLCC leaders expressed disappointment over the exclusion of a representative from the Latin Catholic community in the newly formed Cabinet, stating that the community had played a decisive role in the electoral success of the United Democratic Front (UDF), especially in Kerala’s coastal constituencies.
The Silver Jubilee conference, attended by more than a thousand delegates and faithful from across the state, demanded that the Latin Catholic community be granted its rightful participation in positions of governance and public leadership.
The celebrations, hosted at St. Xavier’s College, Kozhikode, evolved into a vibrant gathering marked by prayer, reflection, cultural programmes and discussions on the social and political realities faced by the Latin Catholic community.
The day began with the hoisting of the KRLCC flag at 9.30 a.m. Bishop Paul Antony Mullassery of Kollam delivered the introductory message during the inaugural session, while Archbishop Thomas J. Netto of Thiruvananthapuram unveiled the Silver Jubilee logo. Bishop Selvaraj of Neyyattinkara released the publication titled Latin Catholics: Social and Economic Study. KRLCC Secretary Patrick Michael welcomed the gathering.
Former KRLCC General Secretary Fr. Francis Xavier Thannikaparambil later delivered the keynote address on the theme “25 Glorious Years of KRLCC: Coordination, Participation and Empowerment,” reflecting on the Council’s journey in strengthening unity and advocacy within the Latin Catholic community. The session was moderated by Joy T.F., representative of the Archdiocese of Kozhikode.
A Pontifical Holy Mass was celebrated at 11 a.m. under the leadership of Archbishop Varghese Chakkalakal of Kozhikode, who also serves as President of KRLCC. Archbishop Thomas J. Netto delivered the homily, calling the faithful to remain committed to the Gospel mission and social engagement.
In the afternoon session, noted economist Dr. Martin Patrick addressed the gathering on the topic “Latin Catholics: Realities, Challenges and Future Plans.” He observed that the Latin Catholic community still faces significant developmental challenges in several sectors and stressed the need for innovative models of social and economic progress. The discussion was moderated by Biju Josey.
The public meeting held later in the day was inaugurated by Archbishop Varghese Chakkalakal, who strongly underlined the need for fair political representation of the Latin Catholic community. He described the demand for the inclusion of a Latin Catholic minister in the Cabinet as both legitimate and just.
The meeting was presided over by KRLCC Vice President Joseph Jude, while General Secretary Fr. Dr. Jiju George Arakkathara delivered the introductory address. Bishop James Anaparambil of Alappuzha offered the benedictory message.
Several initiatives and publications were launched as part of the Jubilee celebrations, including the revised faith formation book, the KLCA Jubilee Edition and the BCC monthly bulletin. The conference also witnessed the launch of the official YouTube channel of KRLCC Media and the inauguration of “BLESS,” a blood donors’ network initiative led by the Kerala Catholic Youth Movement.
The KRLCC announced that the Silver Jubilee celebrations, focused on the renewal and empowerment of the Latin Catholic community in Kerala, will continue through various programmes until May 23, 2027. These will include professional conclaves, lay leadership gatherings, priests’ and religious conclaves, and media conclaves organised in different parts of the state.
The year-long celebrations will culminate in a grand Latin Catholic gathering in Ernakulam, Fr. Jiju George Arakkathara said.
By Joseph Jude
KRLCC
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