St Joseph Seminary joyfully celebrated the traditional festival of Onam on September 3, 2025, under the auspices of Marthoma Malayala Samajam, bringing together the entire seminary community in prayer, cultural expression, and festive fellowship. The celebrations began on the evening of September 2 with a solemn prayer service led by Dn Dennis and Br Jefin, invoking God’s blessings upon the days ahead and setting a deeply spiritual tone for the festival.

On September 3, the celebration reached its sacred height with the Festival Holy Eucharist presided over by Rev. Fr Justin Edathil. The concelebrants included Rev. Fr Alex Kalarikal, Rev. Fr Manoj Palakkal, Rev. Fr Antony Pinto, Rev. Fr Praveen Joy, Rev. Fr Felix, and Rev. Fr Joseph Rodrigues. The Holy Mass was offered especially for the seminarians and their ongoing formation, emphasizing gratitude, fraternity, and service. Following the Eucharist, the homily magazine Vachana Mozhikal of Marthoma Malayala Samajam was released by Rev. Fr Justin Edathil, and Br Libin, the secretary of the Samajam, expressed his heartfelt thanks to all who contributed to the celebration.

To add color and vibrancy to the day, members of the Marthoma Malayala Samajam prepared a splendid floral design (pookalam) symbolizing the spirit of Onam. Various games and competitions were organized for both priests and brothers, with the tug-of-war being the highlight of the day. The event drew great energy and enthusiasm, and the third-year theology students emerged as the winners. As part of the festive meal, an elaborate Onasadya was prepared, featuring a rich array of traditional dishes and the much-loved payasam, the sweet delicacy emblematic of Onam.

Br Sabin added further festivity to the occasion by dressing as Maveli, the legendary figure of Onam, spreading laughter and cheer among all. During the lunch celebration, the brothers organized a delightful cultural programme in the seminary refectory, showcasing traditional music and performances. During this time, the annual magazine of Marthoma Malayala Samajam, Punchiry, was formally released by Rev. Fr Rajesh Rosario, the Rector of the Seminary.

The celebration concluded with the grand festival lunch, drawing the community together in a spirit of thanksgiving, joy, and cultural unity. The Onam celebration at St Joseph Seminary was not merely an event of tradition and culture but a moment of togetherness, gratitude, and shared joy that strengthened the bonds within the seminary family.