The Seven Holy Mysteries

The Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church inherits one of Christianity's oldest liturgical traditions. Through seven holy sacraments, known as rozo (ܪܳܙܐܳ) or "mystery" in Syriac, celebrated in the ancient prayers and sacred actions of our liturgy, God meets His people at every turning point of life, from birth through eternity.

Holy Baptism

മാമോദീസാ Ma-mo-dee-sa

The Gate to the Kingdom — washing away original sin and incorporating the believer into Christ's death and resurrection through water and the Holy Spirit.

Holy Mooron

മൂറോൻ Moo-ron

Chrismation — the seal of the Holy Spirit that completes baptism, anointing the believer as priest, prophet, and king in God's Kingdom.

Holy Qurbana

വിശുദ്ധ കുർബാന Vi-shud-dha Kur-ba-na

The Eucharist — 'sacrament of sacraments' — where bread and wine become the Body and Blood of Christ through the Holy Spirit's invocation.

Life in the Church

Holy Confession

കുമ്പസാരം Kum-pa-sa-ram

The sacrament of repentance and reconciliation — where we return to God, receive His forgiveness, and are restored. The Church Fathers called it a 'second baptism.'

Anointing of the Sick

തൈലാഭിഷേകം Thai-la-bhi-she-kam

Holy Unction — prayers and anointing with blessed oil for healing and comfort of those suffering in body, mind, or spirit.

Vocation

Holy Matrimony

വിവാഹം Vi-va-ham

Marriage — holy union blessed by the Church as an icon of Christ and the Church, sanctifying the couple's life together.

Holy Orders

പൗരോഹിത്യം Pou-ro-hi-thyam

Priesthood — ordination to serve the Church in apostolic succession, continuing Christ's ministry of word and sacrament.