The St Alphonsa Cathedral Syro Malabar parish in Epping marked its annual feast and procession on Monday 16 February, drawing members of Melbourne’s Syro-Malabar Catholic community for a full mass and celebration.
Victoria’s Shadow Minister for Multicultural and Multifaith Affairs Evan Mulholland attended the service and acknowledged the contribution of the parish to the northern suburbs.
“A joy to attend the full mass at St Alphonsa Cathedral Syro Malabar, in Epping for their annual parish feast and procession,” Mr Mulholland said.
He praised the local community, stating, “The Syro Malabar Catholic community in Melbourne’s north are a faith filled, loving community and I was honoured to present Bishop John Panamthottathil and the Parish with a plaque of appreciation for their contribution.”
Mr Mulholland added, “I’m looking forward to returning once again very soon.”
The cathedral is dedicated to Saint Alphonsa, the patron saint of the Syro-Malabar Catholic community. She was the first woman of Indian origin to be canonised by the Catholic Church and the first saint of the Syro-Malabar Church.
The St Alphonsa Syro-Malabar Catholic Cathedral in Epping is the world’s first cathedral dedicated to her. Mr Mulholland noted that he had attended its consecration mass in 2024.
The annual parish feast remains a key religious and cultural event for the Syro-Malabar community in Melbourne’s north.
Support independent community journalism. Support The Indian Sun.
Follow The Indian Sun on X | Instagram | Facebook
Support Independent Community Journalism
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun exists for one reason: to tell stories that might otherwise go unheard.
We report on local councils, state politics, small businesses and cultural festivals. We focus on the Indian diaspora and the wider multicultural community with care, balance and accountability. We publish in print and online, send regular newsletters and produce video content. We also run media training programs to help community organisations share their own stories.
We operate independently.
Community journalism does not have the backing of large media corporations. Advertising revenue fluctuates. Platform algorithms change. Costs continue to rise. Yet the need for credible, grounded reporting in a multicultural Australia has never been greater.
When you support The Indian Sun, you support:
• Independent reporting on issues affecting migrant communities
• Coverage of local and state decisions that shape daily life
• A platform for small businesses and community groups
• Media training that builds skills within the community
• Journalism accountable to readers
We cannot cover everything, but we work to cover what matters.
If you value thoughtful reporting that reflects Australia’s diversity, we invite you to contribute. Every donation helps us maintain the quality and consistency of our work.
Please consider making a contribution today.
Thank you for your support.
The Indian Sun Team
