The Syro-Malabar Catholic Singapore (SMCS) Malayalee community observed Holy Week from March 29 to April 5 with deep devotion, bringing together families in prayer, reflection and celebration as they commemorated the passion, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
The Holy Week began with a vibrant Palm Sunday, or Oshana Sunday, procession at St Patrick’s House Chapel. The faithful gathered carrying blessed palm leaves, known as kuruthola, symbolising peace and victory, to mark the triumphant entry of Jesus into Jerusalem. For many Malayalee families in Singapore, the tradition offered both spiritual renewal and a cherished link to their roots in Kerala.
On Maundy Thursday, the congregation assembled at Holy Innocents’ High School for solemn observances centred on the Last Supper. Sacred rituals such as the Washing of the Feet highlighted humility and service, while Appam Murikkal, the breaking of bread, reflected unity and the institution of the Holy Eucharist. Many families also continued the long-held Pesaha tradition by preparing Pesaha Appam and Paal at home and sharing them with the wider congregation.
Good Friday was marked by solemn devotion through the Way of the Cross and the prayerful Nagarikanikkal procession. A special highlight was the live enactment of the Passion by SMCS youth, which brought the suffering of Christ vividly to life and deeply moved the congregation. The outdoor service invited participants into a collective spiritual journey, followed by fellowship among the community.
The week culminated in the joyful celebration of Easter Sunday at Holy Innocents’ High School. A full congregation of around 900 attended the festive Mass, which featured Malayalam hymns, ancient prayers and the distribution of coloured Easter eggs symbolising new life, hope and resurrection.
The strong turnout reflected the steady growth of the SMCS community in Singapore and the importance of preserving its distinctive Syro-Malabar liturgical traditions overseas. The Holy Week observances were spiritually guided by Fr Majo Marotikkal and Fr Joobesh Mannakulathil, with support from the SMCS executive committee led by Mr Biju George.
Together, the celebrations strengthened faith, fellowship and a sense of belonging among Singapore’s Syro-Malabar Malayalee Catholics.
Dulsy Paul
