Bishops Synod of Syro-Malabar Church concludes

Kochi, Sep 2 (UNI) The Bishops Synod of the Syro-Malabar Church concluded here today after discussing various issues facing the Church and the community, including the Self-Financing Professional Colleges Regulation Act and farmers' distress.

Major Archbishop of the Church, Mar Varkey Vithayathil, addressed the concluding session of the Synod, which was attended by 35 of the 37 bishops. The conclave had started on August 21.

In a press statement here, Fr. Paul Thalekkat, spokesman for the Syro-Malabar Church, said the implications of the new Professional Colleges Regulation Act for the minority-run educational institutions was discussed by the Synod.

Regarding the problems faced by farmers in various parts of the state, the Synod decided to strengthen the Church-supported Infarm movement for agriculture promotion.

It also decided to launch a ''pro-life movement'' to encourage family life.

The synod also supported the enrolment of priests and nuns as members of the bar and called for measures to safeguard their right to practise as lawyers.

The sending of a permanent representative to the Vatican, to which the Syro-Malabar Church is affiliated, was also discussed.

The next Bishops Synod will be held from January eight to 13 next year.

UNI ARC AD/KSK1830