Saint Alphonsa Syro Malabar Catholic Community Parramatta
This community comprises of Malayalee Catholics of Syro-Malabar origin migrated to Sydney especially living in Western Sydney area. Rev. Fr. Mathew Areeplackal is the Parish Priest and we have Holy Mass every day.
Rev. Fr. Francis Pullukattu has been appointed as the first Chaplain for the community in January 2016 through the consistent efforts of Eparchial Bishop Mar Bosco Puthur, under the generous sponsorship of the Diocese of Parramatta.
The community has adopted the name “Saint Alphonsa Syro-Malabar Catholic Community” subsequent to canonization of St Alphonsa in October 2008.
The Diocese of Parramatta has allocated St. Michael’s Parish, Blacktown in June 2016 for the community. Since 03 July 2016, Holy Mass is celebrated in Malayalam at St. Michael’s Parish, Orwell Street Blacktown.
Saint Thomas the Apostle
St. Thomas was born a Jew and was called to be one of the twelve Apostles. His birth and death dates are unknown, but his feast day is celebrated July 3. He lived before the formal establishment of the Catholic Church but is recognized as the patron saint of architects.
Prayer to Saint Thomas the Apostle
Dear Saint Thomas, You were once slow in believing that Christ had gloriously risen; but later, because you had seen him, you exclaimed: “My Lord and my God!” According to an ancient story, you rendered most powerful assistance for constructing a church in a place where pagan priests opposed it. Please bless architects, builds and carpenters that through them the Lord may be honored. Amen
