Chicago: The Holy Week services commemorating the triumphant entry of Jesus Christ into Jerusalem, the Passover, His passion, crucifixion, and resurrection were solemnly and prayerfully concluded at St. Mary’s Knanaya Catholic Church, Morton Grove.
On Palm Sunday, the blessing of palms, procession, and Holy Qurbana held at 10:00 AM were led by Vicar Fr. Siju Mudakkodil. Fr. Aneesh Maveliputhenpurayil delivered the Palm Sunday message. For the first time, a special English service for youth was conducted at 4:00 PM, witnessing a large participation.
On Maundy Thursday at 6:30 PM, the washing of the feet ceremony and Holy Qurbana were led by Msgr. Thomas Animoottil, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Kottayam. Fr. Siju Mudakkodil delivered the homily, and Fr. Aneesh Maveliputhenpurayil assisted as co-celebrant. Gifts sponsored by Peter Kulangara were distributed by Msgr. Thomas Animoottil to those who took part in the ceremony.
On Good Friday, passion services were held at 5:00 PM in English for youth and at 7:00 PM in Malayalam. Msgr. Thomas Animoottil was the main celebrant. Fr. Abraham Kalarickal, Vicar of Sacred Heart Knanaya Forane Church, Bensenville, delivered the reflection. Fr. Siju Mudakkodil and Fr. Aneesh Maveliputhenpurayil were co-celebrants. The services concluded with the traditional offering of kanji (porridge) to the faithful.
On Holy Saturday morning, the services included the blessing of the new fire and holy water. In the evening, Easter Vigil services were held at 5:00 PM in English and at 7:00 PM in Malayalam. Msgr. Thomas Animoottil led the services and delivered the message, with Fr. Siju Mudakkodil and Fr. Aneesh Maveliputhenpurayil assisting.
Thousands of faithful, including a large number of youth, participated in the Holy Week services. The choir led by Joby Panayaparambil rendered hymns in Malayalam, while the English choir was led by Iona Mattathikunnel.
The successful organization of the Holy Week services was made possible through the dedicated efforts of trustees Xavier Nadupparambil, Sunny Kannala, Joby Polakkal, Majo Kunnassery, and Felix Palakkan, along with the Visitation Sisters and numerous volunteers.
— Roy Chelamalayil
