The Syro-Malabar Mission in Odisha, India, serves a significant Christian minority amidst a predominantly non-Christian population. With a Christian population of 2.77% according to the 2023 census, Odisha presents a unique context for mission work. The state, known for being the first to implement anti-conversion laws, has seen various Christian groups practicing their faith.
The Latin Church has six dioceses with a population of five lakhs and the Syro-Malankara Church started its mission in 2013. The establishment of the Eparchy of Shamsabad paved the way for the Syro-Malabar Church’s mission in Odisha. In 2018, the Eparchy entrusted an extensive area to the Missionary Society of St. Thomas (MST) for intensive missionary activity, with the deployment of young priests led by Fr. Jomon Ayyankanal and Fr. Joseph Cheriampanatt.
Two main factors drive MST’s mission in Odisha: the aftermath of communal riots in 2008-2009 and socio-economic challenges, particularly prevalent in the southern region. Many Christians affected by the riots sought refuge in forests, disconnected from mainstream Christian communities. MST sees an opportunity to bring these communities into the Catholic fold and provide pastoral care. Additionally, the mission aims to address poverty and social marginalization through socio-economic developmental programs.
In summary, the Syro-Malabar Mission in Odisha endeavors to integrate marginalized Christian communities, provide pastoral care, and address socio-economic challenges while spreading the Gospel message in a region with limited Christian presence.
The mission focuses on evangelization through direct involvement and proclamation, targeting areas where the Gospel message is unheard.
Over the past five years, the Odisha Mission has established 13 centers: seven by MST, four by Eparchial Priests of Shamshabad, one by CMI fathers, and one by the Eparchy of Kothamangalam.
These centers include priests, women missionaries, catechists, and chapels, serving a growing Catholic population and catechumens. The mission has 19 Priests, 17 Women, 13 Mission Centres, 60 Catechists, 6 Convents, 27 Village Chapels, 2400 Catholic population and 1200 Catechumens.
