Redemptoristvoice

Dear Confreres,

Thank you for the prayers and support you have shown towards one another at the loss of Cardinal Varkey and during this time of grief.  May his soul rest in peace! 

I made many phone calls to local bishops and had a meeting with them about bringing the body to both the houses (Provincial house and Chowara community) in the Ernakulam Archdiocese. The response was not very consoling. But they have agreed after much pressure and discussion that the body will be brought to the provincial house since it is closed to Angamaly L. F. hospital.

Hence the body of Cardinal Varkey will be brought here on 9th Saturday at 6.00 am and it will be here for 45 minutes. Many confreres have told me that they are coming here for viewing and prayers. After the body is taken to St. George Basilica, we will have a concelebrated mass in our provincial house around 7 am. Confreres from Bangalore and Juvy from Rome are coming for the Funeral. Let us be present in person for the funeral as an expression of our support and solidarity. Let us support one another at this time of great loss.                                                            Thank you                                                                                               with prayers,                                                                                    Joy Poonoly C.Ss.R.                                                                                                                                           April 7, 2011