Catholic Congress (Australia)
Empowering the Laity. Preserving Our Heritage. Serving the Community.
Catholic Congress is the official lay organisation of the Syro-Malabar Catholic Church, bringing together the faithful to actively participate in the life and mission of the Church. Founded as the All Kerala Catholic Congress (AKCC) in India, it now serves Syro-Malabar communities across the world under the guidance of the Syro-Malabar Bishops’ Synod and in accordance with Canon Law.
In Australia, Catholic Congress works in communion with the Syro-Malabar Eparchy of St Thomas the Apostle, Melbourne, supporting lay leadership, strengthening Catholic identity, preserving our rich apostolic heritage, and fostering a vibrant and united community.
Our Mission
Guided by the Gospel values of truth, justice and love, Catholic Congress is committed to the holistic development of the Syro-Malabar community through three key areas of service.
Empowering Lay Leadership
We nurture committed Catholic leaders who actively contribute to the mission of the Church and the wider community. Through leadership formation, advocacy and collaboration, we encourage the laity to participate confidently in parish life and promote the spiritual, social, educational, cultural and economic wellbeing of our people.
Preserving Our Heritage
Our Syro-Malabar tradition is a precious gift handed down through the apostolic mission of St Thomas the Apostle. Catholic Congress is dedicated to preserving our faith, liturgical traditions, history, language and cultural identity, ensuring this rich heritage is passed on to future generations, particularly Australian-born Syro-Malabar Catholics.
Building Community
Catholic Congress fosters fellowship among Syro-Malabar families across Australia by supporting new migrants, strengthening parish communities, encouraging volunteerism, and partnering with diocesan ministries and organisations. Through community outreach, charitable initiatives and cultural engagement, we strive to build a welcoming, faith-filled and mission-oriented community.
Our Presence in Australia
As the Syro-Malabar Church continues to grow across Australia, Catholic Congress chapters are being established in parishes and missions throughout the country. Working closely with our Eparchial Bishop, clergy, religious and lay ministries—including SMYM, Pithruvedi and Mathruvedi—we promote initiatives that strengthen leadership, encourage community participation, celebrate our heritage and foster service to society.
Together, we seek to build a united Syro-Malabar community that is firmly rooted in faith, proud of its heritage, active in service, and committed to contributing positively to the life of the Church and the Australian community.
Fr John Puthuva
Director
President : Prakash Joseph
Mobile: 0450 245 425
Secretary : Renjith Joseph
Mobile: 0432 939 623
