Chicago: The parish community of St. Mary’s Knanaya Catholic Church accorded a heartfelt farewell to Sr. Silverious as she returns to India after completing ten years of dedicated spiritual service at the parish.
A Thanksgiving Holy Mass was celebrated on May 31 under the leadership of Fr. Thomas Mulavanal, Vicar General of the Chicago Syro-Malabar Diocese and Director of the Knanaya Region. Fr. Siju Mudakkodil and Fr. Jinu Pathiyakam served as concelebrants.
During his homily, Fr. Thomas Mulavanal reflected on Sr. Silverious’s years of dedicated ministry, especially during the seven years he served as parish vicar. He expressed sincere gratitude for her selfless contributions and wished her God’s blessings in her future endeavors.
Following the Holy Mass, a farewell gathering was held with the participation of the entire parish community. Speakers including Fr. Siju Mudakkodil, Fr. Thomas Mulavanal, Trustee Coordinator Xavier Naduparambil, and ministry representatives Lissy Mullappally, Peter Kulangara, and Angelina Kannachamparambil conveyed their appreciation and best wishes to Sr. Silverious.
In her response, Sr. Silverious noted that her ministry in Chicago was the longest parish assignment of her religious life. She expressed heartfelt gratitude for the love, support, and cooperation she received from parishioners, priests, and fellow sisters throughout her time in Chicago. She also assured the community of her continued prayers for the parish.
As part of the ceremony, Fr. Siju Mudakkodil presented her with a bouquet, while Fr. Thomas Mulavanal honored her with a traditional shawl in the presence of parish executives and religious sisters. Parish trustees also presented a special gift in recognition of her years of service.
The program, coordinated by Youth Trustee Felix Palakkan, included a vote of thanks by Assistant Vicar Fr. Aneesh Maveliputhenpurayil. A choir led by Coordinator Joby Panayaparambil rendered a farewell song, and sweet rice pudding was served to all attendees under the leadership of the Men’s and Women’s Ministries.
The event concluded as a fitting tribute to Sr. Silverious’s decade-long commitment and devoted service to the Chicago Knanaya Catholic community.
