Particular Law on Parish Assembly and The Palliyogam Procedure Rules of The Syro-Malabar Church Twenty-Five Years After
Published 18.09.2025
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Abstract
While the Palliyogam-Procedure Rules apply to the entire Syro-Malabar Church, a provision allows for adaptation to specific situations within an eparchy. For instance, Rule 73 grants the eparchial bishop the authority to make necessary adaptations to these rules “on account of the special features, customs, or practice of his eparchy.” Such adapted rules are binding within that eparchy. Rule 74 further permits an eparchial bishop to make provisions in his eparchy to resolve difficulties or doubts “not inconsistent with the purpose of these rules.” However, as stated in Rule 78, any parish custom or practice inconsistent with these rules is superseded upon the rules’ enforcement. The details outlining the constitution and functions of Palliyogam illustrate how various Christian faithful in a parish are represented in significant bodies involved in decision-making on essential aspects of parish life. The parish priest’s role is that of a coordinator or facilitator in the decision-making process. Nevertheless, criticisms often arise, claiming that current norms do not adequately reflect the ancient tradition of the Syro-Malabar Church, with laypeople not given sufficient roles and decisions primarily made by pastors. Some argue that Church properties should be handled exclusively by the laity without clergy intervention. While the Palliyogam-Procedure Rules grant a significant role to the laity in parish decision-making, criticisms emerge due to pastors disregarding lay opinions and attempting to monopolise the decision-making process. Adequate training and conscientisation for laypeople are crucial for active participation in yogams and influencing the decision-making process. Pastors also need training to recognise and respect the proper roles of lay functionaries without unnecessary interference. The Palliyogam-Procedure Rules are enacted by the Synod of Bishops, the highest legislative authority in the Syro-Malabar Church. While civil authorities generally accept the Church’s legislative authority regarding internal discipline, the stipulation preventing legal proceedings against matters related to these rules, except through recourse to ecclesiastical authorities,71 may pose challenges if legally challenged, as it limits an individual’s civil rights.