Mechernich – The third visit by His Excellency Bishop Emeritus Joshua Mar Ignathios, the first bishop of the Diocese of Mavelikara in Kerala, was “a moment of great joy and spiritual renewal” for the Mechernich-based Communio in Christo, as Rev. Jaison Thazhathil, the Superior General, emphasised. Having previously visited the community in 2012 and 2014, Ignathios was welcomed back at the end of June with deep gratitude and affection.
A highlight of the visit was the solemn Mass on the Feast of Saints Peter and Paul. On this special day, the community joyfully celebrated the 28th anniversary of the episcopal ordination of Bishop Joshua Mar Ignathios, as well as the seventh anniversary of the priestly ordination of Fr Patrick, one of the pastoral leaders of Communio in Christo. The Holy Mass became a “powerful reminder of faith, mission and unity”.
“Warm-heartedness and humility”
In his inspiring homily, the Bishop reflected on Saints Peter and Paul as the two pillars of the Church. He linked this image “in a wonderful way” to the life of Communio in Christo, recalling Mother Marie Therese, the founder, and Karl-Heinz Haus, the first Superior General, as the two pillars through whom God laid the foundation of this blessed community. He reminded the faithful that “every achievement and every growth is possible only through God’s grace”, not through human effort alone.
“Bishop Joshua Mar Ignathios impressed everyone with his warm manner and humility,” writes Fr. Shaji Thomas: “He spent time with the members, listened to them, exchanged views with them and encouraged them. With heartfelt words, he expressed that, even whilst serving in India, he would always remain spiritually connected to Communio.” After a fraternal meal shared with the community, the bishop returned to Frankfurt and later flew back to Kerala. His visit left behind “a renewed faith, strengthened bonds and lasting memories”.
Indeed, the entire community feels richly blessed by this pastoral visit and wished the bishop: “May Almighty God continue to bless Bishop Joshua Mar Ignathios abundantly and guide him in his future ministry for the glory of God and in service to his people!”
pp/Agentur ProfiPress
