Syro-Malabar Church gets 4th century basilica in Rome

KOCHI: Santa Anastasia Minor Basilica in Rome, one of the oldest Christian churches and one of the oldest minor basilicas in the world, has been assigned to Kerala-based Syro-Malabar Church (SMC) by the Vatican. SMC in a statement on Sunday said Cardinal Angelo de Donatis, the vicar general of Pope Francis for the diocese of Rome, has issued a decree assigning Santa Anastasia Minor Basilica to SMC.
“This basilica from now on would become the centre of pastoral activities of the faithful of the Syro-Malabar Church, which is one of the foremost Oriental Churches in apostolic tradition and the zeal of faith,” the SMC said.
According to SMC, Emperor Constantine started the construction of this basilica during 325-326 AD. St Jerome, the Bible scholar, preached in this church. It is built on the Palatine Hill, the administrative centre of the Roman empire, very close to the Colosseum.
Popes till the 7th century celebrated Christmas mass in this basilica. This church, built in the baroque style, is famous for its architectural splendour and decorative works.
There are around 7,000 Syro-Malabar catholics in and around Rome and this new setup will go a long way in the smooth coordination of their spiritual and pastoral activities, SMC said. Fr Abraham Kavilpurayidathil, PRO of the church, said according to decree, the centre of pastoral activities of the Syro-Malabar catholics in Rome will be Santa Anastasia Minor Basilica.
“A priest designated by the Syro-Malabar major archbishop will be appointed as the chaplain of the Syro-Malabar catholics. The chaplain will be also be the rector of the basilica,” he said.
“It is the Holy Father special interest that made it possible for the issue of such a decree,” Fr Kavilpurayidathil’s statement said.