The Carmelites of Mary Immaculate (CMI), the largest men’s religious congregation of the Syro-Malabar Church, has appointed Father Benny Nalkara as its new Vicar General. The appointment was made during the 39th General Chapter held at Chavara Hills in Kochi.

This important decision comes at a significant time as the congregation prepares for its bicentenary celebrations in 2031. As Vicar General, Father Nalkara will serve as the main assistant to the Prior General, helping in the administration and overall governance of the congregation. His duties include coordinating ministries, supporting different provinces across countries, and implementing decisions taken by the General Council.

Along with this, the congregation has also elected a team of General Councillors to assist in leadership and decision-making.

Father Biju John Vellakada will support formation and pastoral activities, while also helping coordinate among different provinces. Father Augustine Kochuvely will focus on education ministries and the development of institutions. Father Johnson Palappilly will take care of communication, media, and public relations. Father Tomy Kapiarukudy will work to strengthen spiritual life and missionary outreach.

This new leadership team will guide the CMI congregation as it continues its global mission in education, healthcare, and social service. Their focus will be on strengthening spiritual formation, expanding outreach, and ensuring unity and effective governance across its worldwide presence.

The leadership is expected to lead with commitment, simplicity, and dedication to the mission of the Church.

The Carmelites of Mary Immaculate (CMI), the largest male religious congregation of the Syro-Malabar Church, has elected Father Paul Achandy as its Prior General for the second time. The election took place on March 19 during the 39th General Chapter held at Chavara Hills in Kochi.

Father Achandy, 62, had earlier served as Prior General for six years starting in 2014, the same year Pope Francis canonized the congregation’s founder, Kuriakose Elias Chavara. His re-election comes as the congregation prepares to celebrate its bicentenary in 2031.

After completing his previous term, he served as chancellor of Christ University and rector of Dharmaram College in Bengaluru. He also spent the past three years serving in Kenya.

Church members say his return to leadership is uncommon, as religious congregations usually follow fixed leadership terms. His re-election is seen as a sign of trust and a need for continuity during changing times.

Born in 1963 and ordained in 1992, Father Achandy is known for both academic excellence and administrative experience. He holds an MBA from North Maharashtra University and a doctorate from IIT Madras, specializing in strategic human resource management.

The CMI congregation, founded in 1831, now has nearly 3,000 members working in education, healthcare, and social service in more than 30 countries.

Church leaders describe Father Achandy as a simple and humble person who leads by example. His earlier leadership was known for strengthening internal systems and guiding the congregation with stability and vision.

His re-election is seen as a hopeful step as the congregation moves toward its 200th anniversary.