The Syromalabar community of Darwin

The St. Alphonsa Syromalabar Mission Darwin operates under the guidance of the Eparchy of St Thomas the Apostle, Melbourne, Australia, and has established various functional structures to support and strengthen its focus on the community's needs.
The Syromalabar Parish Council consists of a Vicar and a group of parishioners elected by the parish community. The Parish Council plays a pivotal role in the continuous faith development of the Darwin Malayalee community.

Vision

To be a recognised Syromalabar community of Darwin living in the love and faith of Christ.

Mission

To cater for the spiritual needs of our Darwin Malayalee migrant community, so they can live in the love and faith of Christ and carry the traditions of the Syro Malabar Church.

Purpose

We unite as a Syromalabar community to share the love and faith of Christ and enable our people to lead and carry the teachings and traditions of the Syromalabar Church.

Values

Collaboration, Respect and Teamwork.

Parish Priest

Rev. Dr. John Puthuva, a priest from the Eparchy of Angamaly, was born on October 3, 1966, in Chully, Ernakulam. His life has been a testament to faith, service, and scholarship. He was ordained on December 28, 1994, by Mar Jacob Manathodath. Fr. John celebrates his feast day on June 24, in honour of St. John the Baptist. He took charge of the Darwin parish on February 27, 2025. His priestly formation was shaped through rigorous academic and spiritual training at Carmelgiri Seminary (Philosophy) and Mangalapuzha Seminary (Theology). Fr. John's academic achievements reflect a profound commitment to learning. He holds advanced degrees in multiple disciplines, including LLB, MBA, MSW, MPhil, and PhD.