Holy Qurbana

This transformation, echoing Jesus’ words at the Last Supper, “This is my body which is given for you…This cup is the new covenant in my blood” (Luke 22:19-20), allows the faithful to partake in the sacrificial offering of Christ, uniting themselves more deeply with Him and with each other. The Holy Qurbana nourishes their souls, strengthens their commitment to follow His teachings, and serves as the heart of the Church’s worship. It is where the faithful gather to celebrate the Paschal Mystery and experience the transformative power of Christ’s love. For those who have already received their First Holy Communion, each reception of the Holy Qurbana is a renewal of their baptismal promises and a deepening of their relationship with Christ.

The Syro-Malabar Qurbana is a rich and elaborate liturgical celebration, filled with symbolism and reverence. It involves the chanting of ancient prayers and hymns in Syriac, the language of the early Church, and the use of incense, vestments, and sacred vessels. The faithful actively participate in the liturgy, responding to the prayers and joining in the singing. The climax of the Qurbana is the consecration, where the priest, through the power of the Holy Spirit, transforms the bread and wine into the Body and Blood of Christ. The faithful then receive Holy Communion, partaking in the divine life and entering into a deeper union with Christ. For those receiving their First Holy Communion, this is a momentous occasion, filled with joy and anticipation, as they partake in the Eucharist for the first time and enter into a more profound communion with Christ. The Holy Qurbana, whether it is a First Holy Communion or a subsequent reception, is a source of grace and spiritual nourishment, reminding the faithful of Christ’s sacrifice and calling them to live a life of love and service.

In the Eastern Oriental Churches, including the Syro-Malabar Church, the Sacraments of Initiation—Baptism, Chrismation, and Holy Eucharist—are traditionally administered together. This unified approach emphasizes the interconnectedness of these sacraments and highlights the fullness of Christian initiation. By receiving these sacraments in close succession, the newly baptized are immediately immersed in the life of the Church and empowered to participate fully in its mission.

For further information regarding the reception of the Sacraments, please contact the parish office.