The monastery and compound of ASJM at Vazhakulam were blessed by His Excellency Bishop Mar George Madathikandathil and His Excellency Bishop Mar Jacob Manathodath on 14 September 2023.  On the same day, we had the  Vestition and the First Profession of two of our sisters, Sr. Mercy Grace Emmanuel, belonging to Kothamangalam Diocese, and Sr. Imelda Francis Emmanuel, belonging to Idukki Diocese.

Since its establishment, our community has been blessed by the paternal care and guidance of His Excellency Bishop Mar George Madathikandathil. His encouragement and occasional visits have strengthened us in our mission and helped us grow in the love of Christ. We are also grateful for the constant support of the Parish Priest, the CMI Fathers, the religious, and our neighbors.

A Place of Prayer and Grace

The monastery serves as a center of prayer, worship, and spiritual renewal. It is a welcoming place for everyone who wishes to spend time in God’s presence.

Mizpah Renewal Center, Vazhakulam

St. Joseph’s Chapel

St. Joseph’s Chapel is the heart of the Mizpah Renewal Centre, where retreats and conventions are conducted. Daily Holy Mass and Eucharistic Adoration are also celebrated here, offering the faithful a sacred space for worship, prayer, and spiritual renewal.

Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes

Many pilgrims and visitors experience spiritual comfort and receive blessings through prayer and the recitation of the Holy Rosary at the Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes.

Way of the Cross

The Way of the Cross at the monastery offers a serene and prayerful journey into the presence of the Lord. Beginning at the “ Jesus in Agony at Gethsemane” near the entrance gate and concluding at the “Resurrected Lord” near the entrance of the St. Joseph Chapel, this sacred pathway invites all to reflect on Christ’s passion, death, and resurrection.

The fourteen Stations of the Cross are thoughtfully placed along the pathway, creating an atmosphere of prayer and meditation. As we walk from the chaos of the outside world into the peace of the monastery, we are encouraged to contemplate the depth of God’s love and mercy.

The twelfth station is prayed in front of the Crucified Lord, which is visible from the road and stands as a powerful reminder of Christ’s redeeming, unconditional, and self-giving love for all humanity. People pray the Way of the Cross as they come along this path, experiencing the miraculous healing and the delivering presence of the Lord in their lives.

Counselling Huts

The small Counselling huts near the St. Joseph Chapel provide a welcoming and peaceful space for spiritual sharing sessions.

The Chapel of Perpetual Adoration (St. Mary’s Chapel)

Situated at the highest point of the compound, St. Mary’s Chapel is dedicated to Perpetual Adoration. The red Holy Cross atop the chapel serves as a beacon of hope, faith, and salvation, inviting all to encounter the living presence of Christ.

Events

Daily Holy Mass

The celebration of the Holy Eucharist forms the heart of the spiritual life of the ASJM community. Holy Mass is offered every day at 6:15 a.m., celebrated by either the CMI Fathers or the priests of Vazhakulam Parish.

Members of the public are warmly welcome to join the Eucharistic celebration on all days except Sundays and designated retreat days. By participating in the Holy Mass, the faithful are encouraged to experience God’s presence, receive spiritual nourishment, and draw strength from His Word and Sacrament.

Eucharistic Adoration

Eucharistic Adoration is a cherished spiritual ministry of the monastery, offering us an opportunity to spend time in the presence of the Eucharistic Lord. The Blessed Sacrament is exposed for Adoration daily from 10 am to 3 pm, giving a holy atmosphere of prayer.

During these hours, intercessory prayers are offered for the intentions of the Holy Father, the needs of the Church, peace in the world, contemporary issues and the well-being of all the faithful. Many also bring their personal concerns, family needs, and special intentions before the Lord, trusting in His love and mercy.

Mizpah One-Day Convention

Held on the first Wednesday of every month, beginning at 8:00 a.m., the convention includes:

• Holy Mass
• Confession
• Spiritual Talks
• Eucharistic Adoration
• Spiritual Sharing Session

1003 Rosary

Conducted on one Monday each month from 9:00 a.m., bringing together the faithful for prayer and intercession.

Youth and Teens Retreats

Every month, the monastery hosts either a Youth Retreat or a Teens Retreat, offering opportunities for spiritual growth and faith formation.

Priests’ Cenacle

The Priests’ Cenacle is held periodically for the spiritual renewal and strengthening of priests. Through prayer, worship, reflection, and fellowship, priests are encouraged to spend time in the presence of God, deepen their communion with Him, and receive divine guidance for their ministry and personal spiritual growth.

Retreats for Seminarians

Special retreat programs are organized for seminarians, providing a time of prayer, reflection, and renewal.