MGJSM is an official organization under the SYNOD OF UNIVERSAL SYRIAC ORTHODOX JACOBITE CHURCH.
OUR VISION (CHARISM)
“PADANAM, PARISUDHY, PADASEVA”
OUR MISSION
STUDY (PADANAM)-> To Accomplish Secular and Sacred Study.
SANCTIFICATION (PARISUDHY)-> Individual and Communal Sanctification
SERVICE (PADASEVA)-> Spiritual Guidance, Educational Guidance, Career Guidance and Financial Assistance with Prayer.
HOPE YOUR PRAYER AND SINCERE SUPPORT --- “We are in service of the Church”
Different Ministries
1. Intercession ministry.
2. Musical ministry
3. Prolife ministry
4. Infants and Teens ministry
5. Media ministry
6. Campus ministry
7. Medical ministry
8. Professional ministry
9. Couples ministry
10. Elders ministry
11. Parish ministry
12. Out-reach ministry
OFFICE BEARERS
SUPREME PATRON - H.H.MORAN MOR IGNATIOUS PATRIARCH
PATRON - H.B. MORBASELIOUS THOMAS FIRST (CATHOLICOSE)
SUB-PATRONS - ALL THE BISHOPS OF UNIVERSAL SYRIAC ORTHODOX CHURCH
PRESIDENT - H.B. MOR THEOPHILOSE KURIAKOSE METROPOLITAN
New Officials for MGJSM
President - Dr.Kuriakose Mor Theophilose Metropolitan
General secretary - Dn.Boby John
Joint Secretaries - Arun George & Prasobh Reji
Committee members - Dn.eldhose Rajan, Dn.Shibu, Dn.Thomas K.Poothicote, Jerin Manarcaud
Treasurer- Jijo Abraham
Friday, June 19, 2009
Our Patron - H.B. Catholicose Mor Baselios Thomas 1st
H.B. Catholicose Mor Baselios Thomas 1st
Catholicos Aboon Mor Baselios Thomas I, the spiritual head of the Syrian Christians of India, was born in the Cheruvillil family of Vadayambadi, Puthenkuriz to Mathai and Kunjamma on 22nd July 1929. Early part of his life was full of sufferings. Though he belonged to an aristocratic family, by the time he was born the family had seen bad days. As a child he had frequent bouts of illness which affected his education. His mother used to take the young boy frequently to the nearby Malecuriz Dayro where the relics of late Patriarch St. Ignatius Elias III and Saint Gregorios Geevarghese (Parumala Thirumeni) had been interred. One night, as his mother prayed with the young boy on her lap, she had a vision which prompted her to dedicate the boy to the service of the church. Within days, the boy's illness was entirely cured. God was with him, guiding him and shaping him.
Catholicos Aboon Mor Baselios Thomas I, the spiritual head of the Syrian Christians of India, was born in the Cheruvillil family of Vadayambadi, Puthenkuriz to Mathai and Kunjamma on 22nd July 1929. Early part of his life was full of sufferings. Though he belonged to an aristocratic family, by the time he was born the family had seen bad days. As a child he had frequent bouts of illness which affected his education. His mother used to take the young boy frequently to the nearby Malecuriz Dayro where the relics of late Patriarch St. Ignatius Elias III and Saint Gregorios Geevarghese (Parumala Thirumeni) had been interred. One night, as his mother prayed with the young boy on her lap, she had a vision which prompted her to dedicate the boy to the service of the church. Within days, the boy's illness was entirely cured. God was with him, guiding him and shaping him.
His priestly formation was under the guidance of Mor Philoxenos Paulose (late Catholicos Mor Baselios Paulose II) who ordained him 'Korooyo' in 1952 and 'Shamshono' at Kadamattom Church in 1957. In August 1958, C M Thomas was ordained 'Kassisso' (full priest) by Mor Yulius Elias at the Majanikkara Dayro. In 1959 he was appointed as the vicar of St.Peter's church, Puthencuriz. Later he served the churches at Vellathooval, Keezhumuri, Fort Cochin, Valamboor, Calcutta and Thrissur. For a period of seven years from 1967, he was the organizing secretary of Kolenchery Medical Mission Hospital. He also served as the Chief organizer of the North Indian mission at Bhilai in 1970's and as the secretary of the 'Pourasthaya Suvishesha Samajam' in 1974. He was well known as a great revivalist preacher and was also recognized as an excellent organizer.
In January 1974, Fr. C M Thomas was elected to the episcopate by the Malankara Jacobite Syrian Christian Association convened at the Karingachira St. George Church and was consecrated Metropolitan with the title 'Mor Dionysius' by H.H. Mor Ignatius Ya`qub III on 24th February 1974 at Damascus, Syria. He was entrusted with the charge of Angamali diocese, the largest of all the Syrian Orthodox dioceses which has a membership of more than half a million. The untiring efforts of Mor Dionysius in those days had helped a lot to revive the confidence of not merely the faithful of the diocese, but the entire Malankara Church. Metropolitans Mor Dionysius, Mor Gregorios Geevarghese (late) and Mor Koorilos Kuriakose (late) together were a great support to the (late) Catholicos Aboon Mor Baselios Paulose II, the then Chief of the Malankara Jacobite Syrian Orthodox Church. As the Metropolitan of Angamali Mor Dionysius had successfully initiated many welfare programs and also reorganized the diocesan administration. In 1978 Mor Baselios Medical Mission Hospital at Kothamangalam was started under his patron-ship.
Catholicos-designate
Following the demise of Mor Baselios Paulose II in 1996, Mor Gregorios Geevarghese (Perumpally Thirumeni) become the President of the Episcopal Synod of the Church in India. After the passing away of Mor Gregorios Geevarghese in February 1999, Mor Dionysius assumed the Presidency of the Malankara Church Synod. On 27th December 2000, His Excellency was chosen as the Catholicos-designate by the Holy Episcopal Synod. The Church delegates meeting held at Puthencuriz on the same day, unanimously approved this decision. H.H the Patriarch, however, waited for two more years in expectation of a peaceful settlement to the longstanding dispute between the two factions of Malankara Church. But as it became clearer that the chances for reconciliation is remote because of the insincerity on the part of the opposite faction; a crucial convention was convened at Puthencuriz, Kerala on 6th July 2002 in which delegates from all the parishes participated and they approved a new constitution for the effective administration of the Indian Church, with the consent of the supreme head, the Patriarch of Antioch & all the East. H.E. Mor Dionysius Thomas was elected as the Catholicos and the Metropolitan Trustee of the Jacobite Syrian Christian Church at this historic Church Association. The election was later ratified by the Holy Episcopal Synod of the Universal Syrian Orthodox Church on 22nd July 2002.
Catholicos Enthronement
On Friday the 26th July 2002, His Holiness Moran Mor Ignatius Zakka I Iwas the Patriarch of Antioch & all the East, consecrated the 73-year old Mor Dionysius Thomas as the CATHOLICOS with the title 'BASELIOS THOMAS I' at a solemn function held at the St. Peter & St. Paul Cathedral in Mor Ephrem Monastery, Ma`arat Sayyidnaya, near Damascus. Thus, fulfilling the wishes of multitude of faithful, the Malankara Church received a Catholicos after a gap of six years (Catholicos Mor Baselios Paulose II died in 1996). In the Syrian Orthodox Church hierarchy, the Catholicos is second in rank to the supreme spiritual head, the Patriarch of Antioch.
Fourteen Syrian Orthodox Bishops, from India, Syria, Sweden, Netherlands, Germany, Lebanon, Jerusalem, Turkey and Australia attended the enthronement ceremony as the co-celebrants. Thirty five Rambans, many Nuns of the Church and lay people were also present on the occasion to participate in the historical ceremony. Representatives from Government of Syria & India attended the consecration ceremony as special guests. Besides the three Metropolitans who were the co-celebrants, the Church in India was represented by Very Rev Eraalil Geevarghese Ramban (Kerala), Rev. Fr. Prince Mookkanottil (Vicar Mor Ignatius Syrian Orthodox Church Dubai), Rev. Fr. Eldho Valiya Parambil (Vicar-St.George Abu Dhabi), Rev. Fr. Kurian Maliyil (Vicar Sharjah), Rev.Fr. Mathews (Muscat) and Rev. Fr. Varghese Maikkulangara (Kerala). The consecration ceremony started with the celebration of Holy Qurbono at 8 AM by His Holiness the Patriarch, followed by enthronement ceremony, signing of 'SUSTHATHIKON' (Agreement) and 'OKSIOS' (Rising and Declaration). The ceremonial Services ended with the completion of the Holy Qurbono by the newly consecrated Catholicos.
After the enthronement ceremony a reception was given to the Catholicos His Beatitude Mor Baselios Thomas the First. During the speech delivered on the occasion, His Holiness emphasized the commitment of the Holy See to the Church in India. Replying to the congratulatory messages, His Beatitude the Catholicos Aboon Mor Baselios Thomas I reiterated that he like his predecessors, will always take great care in the continuance of the faith and traditions of the Syrian Church.
Catholicos reaching India
On Saturday 27th July at 10.50 am, His Beatitude arrived at Cochin International Airport where he was given a rousing reception by thousands of people from all walks of life. The representatives of the State government including Cabinet Ministers were present at the Airport to welcome the new Catholicos. Soon after his arrival His Beatitude went to the nearby Akaparambu Mor Sabor Mor Aphroth Church and offered prayers.
The Catholicos then proceeded to the Kothamangalam MarThoma Church where the mortal remains of Maphriyono St. Baselios Yeldho (1685) is entombed. Later His Beatitude visited Malecuriz Dayro and offered prayers at the tomb of his immediate predecessor Aboon Mor Baselios Paulose II. By around 7.00 PM the Catholicos reached St. Joseph's Cathedral, the headquarters of Kottayam diocese and then visited the Manarcaud MarthMariam Church, a major Syrian Orthodox pilgrim centre in Kerala. All through the way, huge gathering of faithful assembled at various places to have a glimpse of their beloved Catholicos and chanted, 'long live Patriarch Mor Ignatius Zakka I Iwas', 'long live Catholicos Mor Baselios Thomas I', 'long live Antioch-Malankara relationship'. On Sunday the 28th, H.B. the Catholicos celebrated the Holy Qurbono at the Kyomtho Seminary chapel to commemorate the second dhukrono of Mor Osthatheos Thomas, the former Metropolitan of Kochi diocese.
On 31st July 2002, the Sunthroniso of Aboon Mor Baselios Thomas I Bava was held at the Kothamangalam Marthoma Cheriapally. H.E. Mor Julius Kuriakose, the first secretary to the Patriarch of Antioch read the Susthathicon, the Patriarchal Bull, proclaiming the enthronement of the new Catholicos for the Church in India. The function was attended by all the Metropolitans of the Malankara Church, hundreds of priests and very large number of laymen who came from all parts of Malankara.
As the head of the Church in India the Catholicos presides over the Holy Episcopal Synod of Malankara Church which includes all the Metropolitans of the Syrian Orthodox Church in India. His Beatitude is also the Metropolitan Trustee of the Jacobite Syrian Christian Association.
Catholicate Office
The Catholicate office of His Beatitude Baselios Thomas I functions at the Patriarchal centre in Puthencuriz near Kochi, which is also the headquarters of the Syrian Orthodox Church in India. His Beatitude resides at Mor Ignatius Seminary at Kothamangalam.
Our Supreme Patron - Moran Mor Ignatius Zakka I Iwas
His Holiness was born on April 21, 1933 into the faithful family of 'Iwas' in Mosul, Iraq. He was born as the fourth child and was named 'Seenaherib' (name of the father of St. Behnam). His Holiness had three brothers and three sisters. The forbears of Patriarch Zakka, the Iwas family, originally belonged to Jessera on Tigris; they migrated to Mosul about three hundred years ago. Some of his ancestors adorned very important posts in the Kingdom. His grand father has received an award from King Faisal I of Iraq for his excellence in his job as Chief craftsmen and architect of the State.
The father of His Holiness, Basheer Iwas, who graduated from the University in Istanbul, the then capital of Ottoman Empire, later became a Professor in the Military Engineering College there. A faithful member of Church, he was very enthusiastic in attending the Church Services regularly and also inspired others to follow his path. It was his ardent desire to mould one of his sons as a priest to serve the Holy Church. After a few years of teaching, he left for his home state in Iraq where he started a wood-working factory of his own. But unfortunately, misfortune struck the family a few years later; Basheer Iwas died of a Cardiac arrest. His Holiness was only 10 at that time. Two years later in 1945, his wife, the mother of His Holiness, also passed away. Thus the young Seenaherib, who later came to be known as Zakka, becomes parentless at a tender age of 12.
Ecclesiastical life & Graduation
After the death of his parents, Young Zakka decided to enter into the ecclesiastical life, thus fulfilling the wishes of his beloved father. But then some of his family members who felt bad about the parentless child being dragged into difficult circumstances, tried to discourage him. However our holy father, who from the age of six dreamt of becoming a monk, remained determined in his choice which finally paved the way for the family too to comply with his decision. Thus he joined the St. Ephrem Theological Seminary in Mosul in 1946 at the age of 13 and was henceforth came to be called 'Zakka'.
On November 28, 1948, young Zakka was ordained 'Koroyoo' (Deacon) by H. E. Mor Athanasius Touma Kasseer and on February 8, 1953, he was elevated to the rank of 'Afodyaknoh' (Half Deacon) by H.E. Mor Gregorios Paulos Behnam. The very next year he graduated with a diploma from the seminary.
June 6, 1954, is an important date in the life of His Holiness. The Holy father accepted the order of monastic life on that day. He was then 21. It was Mor Gregorios Paulos Behnam who ordained him Rabban (monk). His Holiness recalls this as a very special day in his life. He used to say that he always felt the God caring him greatly though his parents left him in his childhood; he prayed to God and He cared him greatly.
On December 18, 1955, the new monk was promoted to the rank of full deacon by H.E. Mor Divanasious Jirges Behanam. In the year 1955, he joined the Patriarchal Staff in Homs as an assistant to the Patriarchal Secretary.
Young Zakka's performance in schools was always excellent; he consistently scored high marks. His elementary education was in the schools at the Al-Tahra Al-Dakhilyah's church (Our Lady's church) and Mor Touma's school (St.Thomas school) at Mosul. In 1957 he graduated from the college with 97 % of marks. Thus he completed his studies with success on the fields of history, philosophy, theology and church-law. He advanced in Syriac, Arabic and English languages, and received diplomas in each of these fields.
Soon after the graduation, he joined the faculty of the seminary where he taught Syriac, Arabic and the Bible. Little later, Rabban Zakka was called to the Patriarchate by the then Patriarch of Antioch Moran Mor Ignatius Aphrem I, one of the most erudite scholars and efficient administrators the Church has seen in modern times. Rabban Zakka became the second, and later the first, Secretary to the Patriarch. After the demise of Moran Mor Aprem I, he continued as First Secretary to the new Patriarch, Moran Mor Ya`qub III.
On November 17, 1957, Patriarch Mor Ya`qub III ordained him a priest. On April 15, 1959, the Patriarch decorated him with "the Holy cross of the grand monk."
From 1955 to 1958 Rabban Zakka studied journalism as a part-time student and took a diploma in journalism. In 1960, he joined the General Theological College of the Episcopal Church in New York in the United States, where he studied oriental languages, philosophy and pastoral theology and mastered in the English language. The college, later in 1983, offered His Holiness an Honorary Doctorate in theology.
Rabban Zakka travelled widely, both on his own and in the company of Patriarch Ya`qub III. He was at that time fortunate to visit all the countries in the Middle East and the America.
In 1962 and 1963 he was delegated by the late Patriarch to attend the two Sessions of the Second Vatican Ecumenical Council as an observer. It was while at the Vatican that he was called to the Episcopal office.
Metropolitan
On November 17, 1963, Rabban Zakka was ordained Metropolitan by the Patriarch Mor Ya`qub III for the Mosul Archbishopric with title 'Severious'. Thus he came to be known as Mor Severios Zakka.
The very next year in 1964 he visited India along with the Patriarch where he participated in the Universal Synod of the Syrian Orthodox Church, held in Kottayam. He later assisted the Patriarch Mor Ya`qub III during the consecration of the first canonical Catholicos of Malankara, Mor Baselios Augen I, on May 21, 1964.
Discovery of St. Thomas relic
On September 1, 1964, during the renovation of the Madboho of the ancient St.Thomas Church at Mosul, Mor Severious Zakka discovered the remains of Apostle Thomas in the sanctuary wall. It was a memorable event in the Episcopal life of the Holy Father. In the first sermon of the Holy father when he visited India as Patriarch of Antioch in 1982 he said, "When we think of St. Thomas, our heart is particularly thrilled because we are very closely connected to St. Thomas. Even though St. Thomas enjoyed his martyrdom here in India, and was entombed in Mylapore, we were the Metropolitan of the church in which the holy relics of St. Thomas have been kept for the past many centuries. One day, unexpectedly, by the grace of God, we were led to reveal the Holy Relics of St. Thomas once again to humanity. It was unknown to the present generation, as to where the holy relic of St. Thomas was kept. But in 1964, according to the will of God, we were able to discover the Holy Relics which were kept in the walls of the sanctuary of our St. Thomas' church in Mosul, Iraq which is the Cathedral church of our Archdiocese of Mosul."
A portion of this Holy relic discovered by Mor Severios Zakka was presented to Malankara Church when Catholicos Mor Augen I paid a visit to the Patriarchate in 1965. In 1994, a small portion of the Holy Relic was again presented to Malankara to be kept at the ancient Mulanthuruthy Marthoman Church which is known as the 2nd Jerusalem of the Syrian Church. Three fathers of the Syrian Church who arrived from Near East were entombed in this church. The Holy Mooron was consecrated in this church once by Patriarch Moran Mor Ignatius Abded 'Aloho, in 1911. This ancient church has also been the venue for two historical Synods of the Malankara Church, one in 1876 and the other in 2004; both were held under the auspices of the Patriarchs of Antioch.
Involvement in Ecumenical movements
In 1965, Mor Severios Zakka attended the Pan Orthodox meet at Adis Ababa. He was one of the 15 theologians from all over the world who met for the unofficial consultations between Oriental and Eastern Orthodox theologians in August 1964 and later. In 1968 Mor Severios attended the Lambeth Palace Conference as an observer. He participated in the consultation between Oriental and Eastern theologians, held again, in Geneva in 1970.
In 1969 Mor Severios assumed the charge of Baghdad & Basra Archdioceses. During this period he also served as the Head of Syriac Studies and a member of the educational academy in Bagdad. In the same year he was appointed to the membership of "Academy of Iraq Culture" and to the presidency of "Academy of Syrian Language and Culture", besides being the Chairman of its Syriac Section and an honorary member of the pro-Oriente Organization in Vienna, Austria. In 1972 he was in Pro-Orinete, Vienna, to give a lecture on "The Church and the Ecumenical Synod." Next year he addressed them again, this time on "What makes a Council legitimate and acceptable." The topic of his address at the Pro-Orinete in 1976 was "The need for, and signs of, communion between local churches." Following that he was granted their Fellowship. He was also given the rare privilege of preaching in St. Stephen's Cathedral, Vienna, in the presence of the Cardinal and other Roman Catholic dignitaries, the first Syrian Orthodox Bishop to be so honoured. In 1976, 1978 and 1979 he served as a consultant on the Pontifical Commission for revision of Oriental Canon Law in the Roman Catholic Church.
At Nairobi in 1975 Mor Severios was elected to the Central Committee of the World Council of Churches, which position he held till his enthronement as Patriarch in 1980. From 1995 onwards, His Holiness the Patriarch, is one of the Presidents of the World Council of Churches.
Major contributions
The Holy father who has an Honorary Doctor's Degree in Syriac Literature from Sweden (Institute of Oriental Studies) and Diploma in Theology, Philosophy and Canon Law, has many works to his credit. He has published a series of text books for use in Christian schools. Some of his other major works are 'Doctrine of Incarnation and Salvation', 'The Seven Sacraments' (co-authored with Metropolitan Haksaka), 'Yakoub III: Life and Apostolic Visit to Middle East and Latin America', 'Apostolic Visit of Yacoub III to North America', 'The Dove by Bar Ebraya, transalation from Syriac to Arabic, with footnotes and a foreword on the theme of monastic life', 'Mor Aphrem the Syrian' (published by the Ministry of Information, Government of Iraq, in 1974 on the occasion of St. Aphrem's Jubilee), 'Mor Jacob of Edessa' (633-708 AD), 'Mor Dionysius Talmahari' (ninth century), 'Story of Seven Sleepers-a perspective from Syriac Sources', 'Syrian Orthodox Church through the Ages', 'Syriac literature in the sixth century', 'Bar Hibarius'. Among his important addresses includes "Syrian Orthodox Church and Ecumenical Movement", "Position and Role of Women in the Church", "Religious Virtues and Family Welfare".
Additional charges as Metropolitan
As Metropolitan of Mosul the Holy Father took special interest in youth activities. Under him, the diocese flourished spiritually and materially. In 1967 he was given additional charge of the European Diocese. In 1969 he was transferred to the Archdiocese of Baghdad and Basra, perhaps the most prestigious archbishopric in the Middle East. In Baghdad he built churches and opened secondary schools and high schools. As in Mosul, in Baghdad also he took keen interest in the spiritual life of the youth.
Following the demise of H.E. Thimotheos Yacoub, Metropolitan Mor Severious Zakka was given the additional charge of the ancient monastery of St. Mathew (Mor Mattai Dayro) in Iraq. In 1976, he was appointed as the Metropolitan of Middle Europe and Scandinavian countries and in 1978 Mor Severios Zakka was given additional responsibility for the new diocese in Australia. He consecrated several churches and organized congregations in Melbourne, Sydney and a few other places.
on June 26, 1980, the Patriarch Mor Ya`qub III passed away and was entombed at the St. George Cathedral, Damascus. Consequent to this, the Episcopal Synod was called to choose the new successor to the Apostolic See. The Holy Synod held on July 11, 1980, with His Beatitude the Catholicos of the East Mor Baselios Paulose II in the chair, unanimously elected Mor Severios Zakka, Archbishop of Baghdad and Basra as the new Patriarch of Antioch and All the East. This marked the beginning of a new era in the history of the Church.
Patriarchal Enthronement
On September 14, 1980, Mor Severios was installed as the 122nd Patriarch of Antioch & all the East, by name IGNATIUS ZAKKA I, in a rite officiated by the late lamented Catholicos of the East Aboon Mor Baselios Paulose II, along with the archbishops of the Universal Syrian Orthodox Church. It was for the first time in the history of the Universal Syrian Church that the chief celebrant for the Patriarchal enthronement was an Indian.
Since that blessed day, the Syrian Orthodox Church has witnessed a remarkable revival through the guidance of the Holy Spirit and the pastoral care of H. H. Ignatius Zakka I Iwas. The 25 years of Mor Ignatius Zakka's Patriarchate have been eventful and significant. In his very first address after adorning the Patriarchate, he stressed the need for a major seminary and centre for the Church. This was a great dream of the new Patriarch. The Syrian Orthodox Patriarchate after moving from the Monastery of Mor Hananyo (Deir ez-Za`faran/Kurkumo Dayro) in Turkey, to Syria in the last century, lacked a proper centre in the new circumstances. It was the Holy fathers' vision that filled this gap. He acquired extensive lands, about 20 miles away from Old Damascus, where he built a magnificent Seminary with all facilities for theological students, accommodations for the visiting dignitaries, residence of the Patriarch etc.. Though officially, the Patriarchate still functions in the St. George Cathedral, Bab Touma, in the city of Damascus, His Holiness resides at the Mor Ephrem Seminary in Ma`arat Sayyidnaya, in the suburb of Damascus, Syria.
The Church which was in turmoil for a while because of persecution, is now witnessing a revival with establishment of churches and institutions in all parts of the world where the Syrian Christians has migrated. The largest congregation of the Church outside the Middle East and India is now situated at Germany where about 100,000 Syrian Orthodox Christians has settled. Similarly the Church has grown to other nations like Holland, Australia, USA, Canada and South America. And in all such countries, Monasteries, churches and other institutions have come up. Young bishops selected and ordained by the Holy father increased the pace of growth in all these places.
Despite his busy schedule, His Holiness has written many articles on a variety of subjects, in Syriac, Arabic and English. Selected articles and sermons of the Holy Father is to be published soon by the St. George Church, Chicago.
Another major achievement of the Holy Father is his close relationship with the other Churches and communities. The relationship with the Roman Catholic and the Byzantine Orthodox Churches were rewritten during his tenure. The Oriental Orthodox family came closer. From 1998, heads of the 3 Oriental Churches in Middle East - the Syrian Orthodox Church, the Coptic Orthodox Church and the Armenian Apostolic Church (Catholicosate of Cilicia, Antelias, Lebanon) - meet regularly every year; two of such meetings were held at our Seminary in Ma`arat Sayyidnaya. Another meeting of the heads of Oriental Churches will soon meet in December again at the Mor Ephrem Seminary. For many decades, the Church is involved in the activities of the World Council of Churches in which both Episcopal and Non-Episcopal Churches are members. The Holy Father is now one of the honorary Presidents of the World Council.
The apostolic visits of His Holiness to India thrice, in 1982, 2002 and 2004, and to the various Archdioceses in the Middle East, Americas and Europe have been most successful. It was during the 2004 apostolic visit, the Holy father consecrated the new headquarters of the Church in India in co-operation with His Beatitude the Catholicos and the Metropolitans.
On July 26th 2002, His Holiness installed Mor Dionysius Thomas, the president of the Episcopal Synod of Indian Church, as the Catholicos of India with the title Baselios Thomas I. This was a great event in the history of the Church in India. The new Catholicos was consecrated as the immediate successor to the late Mor Baselios Paulose II who led the enthronement ceremony of His Holiness in 1980. Now the Holy Synod of the Universal Syrian Orthodox Church consists of 41 prelates besides the Patriarch and the Catholicos, of which 22 were ordained by our Patriarch Moran Mor Ignatius Zakka I Iwas
Historical Events
The Students organization of the Jacobite Syrian Church prior to 1958 period was known as 'Mar Gregorios Syrian Vidhyarthi Sangam' or the 'Mar Gregorios Syrian Students Association' (MGSSA) This was the first students organization in the whole world that was named after St. Gregorios Chathuruthy- Parumala Thirumeni.
Though the students movement started in the Malankara Church as early as 1907 by the name 'Syrian Students Conference', the subsequent split and troublesome period in the church following the violent parting away of the rival Malankara orthodox group resulted in a stagnation in the functioning of the Students movement. Later in 1922 the students movement of the Church was reorganized by our late Valiya Thirumeni (Saint Athanasius Paulose, the Malankara Metropolitan) at a specially convened session held at Cheruthottukunnel St. George Church of Angamaly diocese. It was Valiya Thirumeni who proposed the name of the organization after his guru, St. Gregorios Geevarghese of Parumala. Thus the students wing of the Jacobite Syrian Church came to be known as 'Mar Gregorios Syrian Students Association' (MGSSA)
Meanwhile the break away group of Malankara, the Methran Kakshi or Malankara Orthodox Church, as was called later, also organized a parallel students movement which was named as 'St. Thomas Syrian Students Movement'. This situation continued until 1959 when both the students movements merged to form as a single unit and was thereupon came to be called MGOCSM.
After 1976 our student’s movement underwent through different situations, the name of the movement was changed into SOSMI and later in 2002 it has changed as JASSMI. The Holy Episcopal Synod of Jacobit Syrian Christian Church held at Puthencruz in the Month of June 2009 decided to the change the name of the Organisation as MGJSM( Mor Gregoriose Jacobite Syrian Students Movement). In the name of St Gregoriose of Malankara in which name Valiyathirumani started the students movement in our church. Thus the history got is repeating again.
Even though the name of the church has changed in different periods the movement were known in the same name in different churches in Malankara and Abroad. The Student’s Organisation in the Poikattussery Mor Bahanan Sahada JSO Church Akaparambu Mor Sabore Afroth JSO, St Mary’s JSO Church Ankamaly, St Mary’s JSO Church Aluva and the student’s organisation in the diocese of America were in the same name MGJSM from the late 1922’s
Though the students movement started in the Malankara Church as early as 1907 by the name 'Syrian Students Conference', the subsequent split and troublesome period in the church following the violent parting away of the rival Malankara orthodox group resulted in a stagnation in the functioning of the Students movement. Later in 1922 the students movement of the Church was reorganized by our late Valiya Thirumeni (Saint Athanasius Paulose, the Malankara Metropolitan) at a specially convened session held at Cheruthottukunnel St. George Church of Angamaly diocese. It was Valiya Thirumeni who proposed the name of the organization after his guru, St. Gregorios Geevarghese of Parumala. Thus the students wing of the Jacobite Syrian Church came to be known as 'Mar Gregorios Syrian Students Association' (MGSSA)
Meanwhile the break away group of Malankara, the Methran Kakshi or Malankara Orthodox Church, as was called later, also organized a parallel students movement which was named as 'St. Thomas Syrian Students Movement'. This situation continued until 1959 when both the students movements merged to form as a single unit and was thereupon came to be called MGOCSM.
After 1976 our student’s movement underwent through different situations, the name of the movement was changed into SOSMI and later in 2002 it has changed as JASSMI. The Holy Episcopal Synod of Jacobit Syrian Christian Church held at Puthencruz in the Month of June 2009 decided to the change the name of the Organisation as MGJSM( Mor Gregoriose Jacobite Syrian Students Movement). In the name of St Gregoriose of Malankara in which name Valiyathirumani started the students movement in our church. Thus the history got is repeating again.
Even though the name of the church has changed in different periods the movement were known in the same name in different churches in Malankara and Abroad. The Student’s Organisation in the Poikattussery Mor Bahanan Sahada JSO Church Akaparambu Mor Sabore Afroth JSO, St Mary’s JSO Church Ankamaly, St Mary’s JSO Church Aluva and the student’s organisation in the diocese of America were in the same name MGJSM from the late 1922’s
Our President - Dr.Kuriakose Mor Theophilose Metropolitan
His Grace Mor Theophilos Kuriakose was born on 1 February 1966 as the son of Cheria Varkey and Saramma Varkey in the Kodikuthiyil family. He belongs to the St.George Thabore Church, Ooramana in the Kandanad diocese. In 1993 he received the B.D from the United Theological College at Bangalore. From 1993 to ’95 he served as the lecturer at the Malankara Syrian Orthodox Theological Seminary. In 1995 he went to Germany where he mastered in German and Latin languages from the Ostkirchliches Institute. In 2001 he got the Masters Degree and Doctorate in Theology at the Catholic Faculty of the University of Regensburg. In 2002 he returned to Malankara as the Lecturer of the M.S.O.T Seminary. His priestly ordination was by H.B. Catholicose Aboon Mor Baselios Thomas I on 12 November 2002.On Monday 29 September 2003, H.B Catholicose Aboon Mor Baselios Thomas I ordained him the Metropolitan at the Patriarchal Centre Chapel, Puthenkuriz. He was ordained as the Resident Metropolitan of M.S.O.T. Seminary, Udayagiri.
Our Founder - St.Athanasius Paulose Valiya Thirumeni
St.Athanasius Paulose Valiya Thirumeni
St. Athanasius Paulose popularly known as 'Valiya Thirumeni', is one of the luminous stars of the Syriac Orthodox Church, who as the head of the Church in India, successfully guided its destiny for nearly four decades. It was his firm faith, persistent efforts and ardent prayers that helped the Malankara Syrian community to maintain their ancient links with the Holy See of Antioch. Valiya Thirumeni is the founder father of many of the spiritual organizations like Sunday School Association, Mor Gregorios Youth Association etc.. Consecrated as Metropolitan for the Angamali diocese in 1910 by Patriarch Mor Ignatius Abded `Aloho (Abdulla II), he became the Malankara Metropolitan of the Jacobite Syrian Church in 1918. After serving the Church in Malankara for more than four decades, he passed away on 25th January 1953 at the age of 84.
Known for his piety, integrity, sincerity and unflinching faith, the spiritual father is remembered by the Malankara Church with great veneration. Valiya Thirumeni loved his people and defended them until his last, leaving behind him a magnificent legacy. He dedicated his entire life for the cause of the Church and the society. People revere him as a saintly father; he is the pride of the Malankara Jacobite Syrian Church. Fifty one years after his demise, on 19th August 2004, the Church beatified Mor Athanasius Paulose. Valiya Thirumeni is the only prelate from India, other than Chathuruthy St. Gregorios Geevarghese (Parumala Thirumeni) of Malankara who has been raised to the status of sainthood.
Child-hood
Valiya Thirumeni was born on 23rd Jan 1869 to 'Mathai’ of Ayyambillil Thekkekarayil family and ‘Anna’ of Kuttikatt Pynadathu family of Nayathodu at Akaparambu, Angamali. He was christened by name PAULOSE at the ancient Akaparambu Mor Sabor Mor Apfroth church. Thirumeni grew up in his mother's house (Pynadathu) at Akaparambu as she being the only child of her parents had inherited the property. Hence most of the people recognize Valiya Thirumeni as one from the Kuttikatt Pynadathu family.
From childhood days Paulose had shown deep affection in spiritual matters. He was greatly interested in the study of scriptures and in religious practices. His extraordinary brilliance caught the eye of everybody. Ambatt Mor Kurillos Geevarghese, the then Metropolitan of Angamali diocese, came to know about him. Under his advise, young Paulose became a regular server in the Madboho of the Akaparambu Church. When Moran Mor Ignatius Peter IV, the Patriarch of Antioch was celebrating the Holy Qurbono in the church during his Apostolic visit to India in 1876, Kunji Pailo as he was fondly called, a child of mere 7 years old, was instructed by Ambatt Metropolitan to read the fifth tubden (Diptych) in Syriac. In his ringing musical voice while he was reading it, the Patriarch looked back at the enlightened child and specially blessed the boy after the Holy Qurbono, an essential pass to achieve higher levels of spiritual glory later in life.
On 21st April 1879 at the tender age of ten, young Paulose was ordained Deacon by Ambatt Thirumeni. The Metropolitan taught our Deacon Paulose, theology and Syriac. His English education was at the Alwaye Government High School. Soon he was sent to the seminary at Kottayam where he was under the direct care of Pulikottil Joseph Mor Divanasios. By the time he passed matriculation from the C.M.S. School he had almost completed his education in the seminary as well. Shortly thereafter he was given the assignment of a Malpan (teacher) in the seminary where he remained sometime till 1895 when he was taken home due to a severe illness of typhoid. He was about to die, but only miraculously escaped; thanks to his prayers. This was a turning point in his life, he vowed to devote the rest of his life for the Church. After recovery, he was given charge of the construction of the St.Mary's church at Thrikunnathu, Alwaye (there was no seminary then).
Ordination as 'Kassisso' & 'Ramban' by Parumala Thirumeni
On 25th November 1898, Deacon Paulose was ordained 'Kassisso' (Full Priest) by St. Gregorios Geevarghese (Parumala Thirumeni). After three days, on 28th, he was ordained 'Ramban' (Monk-Priest, Rabban), again at the blessed hands of Mor Gregorios assisted by Pulikottil Mor Divanasios and Kadavil Mor Athanasius Metropolitans. From then on he came to be popularly known as KOCHU PAULOSE RAMBAN. There was then the other Paulose Ramban of Kochuparambil (Later Paulose Mor Kurillos Malankara Metropolitan -d. 1917) in Malankara.
Kochu Paulose Ramban (Valiya Thirumeni) in Parumala Seminary
Before the completion of the church at Thrikunnathu, Kochu Paulose Ramban was entrusted with construction of the seminary at Parumala by Metropolitan Mor Gregorios Geevarghese (Parumala Thirumeni). Hence he moved to Parumala with the consent of Kadavil Paulose Mor Athanasius (Senior) who was looking after the Angamali diocese after the demise of Ambatt Thirumeni. The Ramban was actively involved in giving shape to Parumala Dayro, staying there for three years. On completion of the work there, he returned to Alwaye.
St.Gregorios in great admiration of the spiritual gifts latent in the Ramban, presented him with a 'Seelamudi', 'Pathraseen' and a copy of the book detailing the service of ordination - the prophetic gifts which are not required by a Ramban but revealed the path the Ramban would tread later in life.
Thrikkunnathu Seminary & Kochu Paulose Ramban
On his return to Alwaye, Kadavil Mor Athanasius (Senior) Metropolitan entrusted Kochu Paulose Ramban the responsibility of completing the construction of seminary building. Within the next three years the seminary which is now known as Thrikkunnathu Seminary, was opened. Later when Pynadath Kochu Paulose Ramban was ordained Metropolitan and assumed the charge of Angamali diocese, he expanded the Seminary building again. It was he who brought many people to Alwaye from nearby villages and gave them land to construct houses around the seminary. He even sold his ancestral property at Akaparambu for financing the construction of this Seminary building, thus replacing the old, fragile and worn out structure. Under him, Thrikkunnathu Seminary became a major theological centre in the north. It was the centre of activities of the Church in Malankara for several decades which nurtured many of our blessed apostolic dignitaries; late lamented Catholicos Aboon Mor Baselios Paulose II, Mor Gregorios (Vayaliparambil), Mor Sevarios (Mulayirickal), Mor Clemis Abraham (Knanaya), etc.
Arrival of the Patriarch Mor Ignatius Abdulla II (Abded'Aloho) in Malankara
When Metropolitan Kadavil Mor Athanasius (Sr.) was called to eternal rest in 1907, there were only 2 Metropolitans remaining in Malankara, Pulikottil Mor Divanasios and Murimattom Mor Ivanios who were in their very advanced ages, to look after the Jacobite Syrian Christians here. In order to ease their heavy load of diocesan administration that spread all over Malankara, they appealed to the Patriarch for consecrating more Metropolitans. The Holy Father approved their appeal and on 31st May 1908, Kochuparambil Paulose Mor Kurillos and Wattasseril Geevarghese Mor Divanasios were consecrated by the Patriarch Moran Mor Ignatius Abdulla II at the St.Mark's Syrian Orthodox Monastery, Jerusalem, as Theebel (general) Metropolitans. The delegation that went for the ordination had then, on behalf of Malankara Church, officially submitted the request to the Patriarch for H.H's visit to Malankara. Meanwhile there also aroused some dissatisfaction among the supporters of Wattasseril Methran since the Patriarch had not then yielded to their wishes to declare Wattasseril Metropolitan as the SUCCESSOR to the Malankara Metropolitan. His Holiness could not comply with the request as it being a violation of canon and practices of the Church (Pulikottil Mor Divanasios was alive then); so the Patriarch instead appointed Wattasseril Metropolitan as assistant to the Malankara Metropolitan. (Appointing a Patriarch/Catholicose/bishop as successor to another, who is functioning, is against the canonical traditions and hence is strictly followed by the ancient Churches). This incident is said to be the first cause of the unhappy revolt of Wattasseril Metropolitan, that happened some years later, against the Patriarch.
A year later on 11th July 1909, Pulikottil Mor Divanasios was called to his heavenly abode while the Patriarch was in London on his way to India. Immediately Wattasseril Metran cabled to the Patriarch in London to issue orders appointing him as Malankara Metropolitan. Being informed of the matter by the Apostolic delegate Mor Osthatheos Sleeba, His Holiness issued orders appointing Mor Geevarghese Divanasios (Wattasseril) as Malankara Metropolitan. By the end of the year, the Patriarch arrived here from London via, Alexandria. Wattasseril Metropolitan and other church dignitaries received the Holy Father at Mumbai. But very soon Wattasseril Methran started rebellion by raising unnecessary allegations against the Patriarch when His Holiness warned him for ignoring the two co-trustees who were in charge of the Beth Gaza (Treasury) together with the Wattasseril Metropolitan. The events that followed led to the formation of a anti-Patriarch group within the Holy Church under Wattasseril Metropolitan and his followers. Wattasseril Methran already had a vengeance against the Patriarch since H.H. had not approved him as the successor of Malankara metropolitan at the time of his ordination itself.
The adamant attitude of Wattasseril Metropolitan that he is unquestionable to anyone and his willful actions violating the paternal instructions of the Holy Father, culminated in his excommunication from the Holy Church by the apostolic bull of 31st May 1911 - just on the day completing 3 years of the metropolitan's consecration.
The Church in Malankara was in turmoil. To hold and firm up the Jacobites in the true faith, more apostolic shepherds were in urgent need. The Angamali diocese, meanwhile, resolved to appeal to the Patriarch to kindly consecrate Kochu Paulose Ramban as their Metropolitan. Having received testimonies about the zeal in faith, purity of character and industrious nature of the Ramban, the Holy Father was only happy to accept the request.
Consecration as Metropolitan
On 9th June 1910 Kochu Paulose Ramban was consecrated Metropolitan (Archbishop) by name 'MOR ATHANASIUS PAULOSE', at his home parish, the ancient Mor Sabor and Mor Afroth church, Akaparambu, by H.H. the Patriarch of Antioch and all the East Mor Ignatius Abded’ Aloho (Abdulla II). The very next year on 19th August 1911, when the HOLY MUROON was consecrated in Malankara (at the Mulanthuruthy Mar Thoman church) for the second time in the long history of Malankara Church, Mor Athanasius was fortunate to assist His Holiness the Patriarch.
On 14th October 1911, the holy Patriarch left the shores of Kerala, with a heavy heart. Valiya Thirumeni (Mor Athanasius), the Antiochean delegate Mor Osthatheos Sleeba and Malankara Malpan Konatt Mathen Corepiscopa escorted the Holy Father to Mumbai and bid farewell with tearful eyes and whimpering hearts.
As the Metropolitan of Angamali (the largest among all the dioceses in Malankara), Mor Athanasius administered the diocese staying at the partially completed Thrikkunnathu Seminary building. He also then held the additional charge of the diocese of Cochin.
Malankara Metropolitan
After the demise of Mor Kurillos Paulose (Kochuparambil), Mor Athanasius Thirumeni became the Malankara Metropolitan in 1918. A year later on 26th Sep 1919, Malankara Sunday School Association (M.S.S.A) was formed at a meeting held at the Piravom Valiya church under the guidance of Mor Athanasius Thirumeni. His Grace was then chosen as the first president of the Association.
On 6th May 1922, under instruction from our Valiya Thirumeni, the Students organization of the Jacobite Syrian Church convened at Cheruthottukunnel church at Angamali, renamed itself as 'Mar Gregorios Students Association' after his beloved malpan Chathuruthy Mor Gregorios Geevarghese (Parumala Thirumeni). This was the first student’s organization in Malankara that assumed the name of St.Gregorios. ('Mar Gregorios Orthodox Christian Students Movement'-MGOCSM, was named as such only in 1960's after the reunification of the Vattasseril faction with the Jacobite Syrian Church.)
On 19th March 1930, Saint Osthatheos Sleeba, the Patriarchal delegate died and was entombed at the Arthat Simhasana church. Mor Athanasius Thirumeni was a very close associate of Mor Osthatheos Bawa.
Apostolic visit of the Patriarch St. Ignatius Elias III to Malankara
The same year in 1930, Patriarch Mor Ignatius Elias III visited India to strive for peace in the Malankara Syrian church. Mor Athanasius being the chief of the Malankara Church, was fortunate enough to accompany His Holiness throughout the Apostolic visit and participated in the discussions held in this regard. Unfortunately, His Holiness passed away on 13th Feb 1932 before accomplishing the mission, and was entombed at the Manjanikkara Dayro, which has now become a famous Pilgrim centre. Malankara Metropolitan Mor Athanasius Paulose led the last ceremonial rites of this holy Patriarch which was attended by all the Metropolitans of the Malankara Church and other top dignitaries including the representatives of the government.
Historic Malankara Association of 1935
At the historic Malankara Association meeting held on 22nd August 1935 at the Karingachira St.George church, Mor Athanasius Thirumeni was once again unanimously elected as Malankara Metropolitan. Besides His Eminence, those who attended the Holy Synod and the convention were, Mor Dionysius Mikhail of Kottayam, Niranam, Thumpamon and Quilon dioceses, Mar Thimotheos Augen of Kandanad (later Catholicos Augen I) and Mar Dioscorus Thomas of Knanaya dioceses. A Priest trustee (Pookunnel Rev. Fr. Avira Joseph) and a lay trustee (Thukalan Pailo Avira) were also elected at this Malankara Suryani Christian Association that was held with the approval of the judiciary.
'Defender of Faith' (Viswasa Samrakshakan)
Malankara Church is very fortunate for having Mor Athanasius Paulose as its Prelate for fourty-two years. Under his guidance, the Church had overcome many of the adverse situations. Undaunted faith in Our Lord was his strength. Like his predecessors Mor Athanasius Thirumeni too, was always very determined to follow the pledge he had given to His Holiness the Patriarch of Antioch at the time of his consecration. Though His Grace had to face stiff challenge from those who tried to disassociate themselves from the Apostolic faith of the Holy See of Antioch, he administered the Church with a Godly mission. Because of his determination to uphold the traditions of the Holy Church, he is often described in the Church history as Sathya Viswasa Samrakshakan ('Defender of True Faith'), a title conferred to him by the Patriarch Mor Ignatius Aphrem I. The people also affectionately called him Valiya Thirumeni.
Many of the Church’s institutions were first organized by Valiya Thirumeni. The saddest moment in the life of Mor Athanasius Thirumeni was when Mar Augen Thimotheos of Kandanad diocese, deserted the Holy Church in 1942, in one of its difficult periods. Later on the request of Valiya Thirumeni, the Malankara Church elected two Metropolitans in 1946 and His Holiness the Patriarch of Antioch ordained them as Mor Geevarghese Gregorios (Vayaliparambil, Alwaye) and Mor Severious Paulose (Mulayirikkal family, Cherai- founder of Koratty Zion Seminary). Late lamented Metropolitan Mor Clemis Abraham of Knanaya diocese had his theological education under Valiya Thirumeni, staying at Thrikkunnathu Seminary. A few months before the demise of Mor Athanasius Thirumeni, Metropolitan Mor Philoxenos Paulose was ordained for the Kandanad diocese. (Mor Philoxenos later became the Catholicos of the East in 1974 by name Mor Baselios Paulose II)
On 25th January 1953, Our Lord called His Eminence Mor Athanasius Valiya Thirumeni to his eternal rest in heaven, at the ripe age of 84 years. The mortal remains of the Holy Father were interred at the northern side of the MADBOHO of the St.Mary's church at Thrikkunnathu, Alwaye, confirming to his last wish.
Mor Athanasius Valiya Thirumeni, the Saintly Father of the Malankara Church
Simplicity and hospitality were the hallmarks of Thirumeni. Whoever visited Alwaye Seminary went back praising Valiya Thirumeni’s hospitality. There are many incidences that explain the divinity in Thirumeni. Once a lady who was suffering from hemorrhage for several years and had spent a lot of money on medical treatments, approached Thirumeni who prayed for her and she was healed of the disease. Another known event is that of the miraculous recovery of a man called Varkey who was suffering from demon’s attacks for twenty years. This mad fellow was cured immediately after our Saintly Thirumeni placed his Sleeba (Cross) on his forehead and prayed. Many such blessed events are recalled by the elders. Thirumeni's divine life of prayers and meditation was an inspiration for all. Even in the midst of administrative duties he found enough time in preaching the Holy Gospel. He is also recognized as a great Syriac scholar.
Mor Athanasius College of Engineering at Kothamangalam, Mor Athanasius High School at Nedumbassery, Mor Athanasius English Medium School at Puthencuriz, are some of the major institutions erected to his memory; Valiya Thirumeni continues to live among us. The sandalwood cot used by Thirumeni is kept in a separate room of the office of his home parish, the Mor Sabor Mor Aphroth Church at Akaparambu. Many devotees visit the church, paying homage to the late lamented Thirumeni and pray for his intercession.
Beatification of Mor Athanasius Paulose-Valiya Thirumeni, the Malankara Metropolitan
Conferring to the wishes of the multitude of faithful, the Malankara Episcopal Synod in 2001 requested His Holiness the Patriarch, to beatify Mor Athanasius Paulose and to remember the Saintly Metropolitan's name in the 5th TUBDEN (Diptych) along with that of his mentor Chathuruthy St.Gregorios Geevarghese (Parumala Thirumeni), Patriarch Mor Ignatius Elias III (Majanikkara) and Maphriyono Mor Baselios Yeldho (Kothamangalam).
On 19th August 2004, the Supreme head of the Universal Syrian Orthodox Church, H.H. Ignatius Zakka I Iwas issued the historic bull, canonizing Mor Athanasius Paulose, as Saint. The announcement was made at the Patriarchal Cathedral, Damascus, Syria.
The very next day, at a solemn function held under the auspices of Catholicos Aboon Mor Baselios Thomas I at the Akaparambu Mor Sabor Afroth Church (the home parish of St. Athanasius), the Patriarchal Bull conferring sainthood to Valiya Thirumeni was announced by H.E. Mor Julius Kuriakose, the first secretary to the Patriarch of Antioch & the Metropolitan in charge of the Indian affairs.
The Metropolitans of Malankara, several Priests and a great number of faithful from all over Malankara were present at the Church to hear the historic proclamation. Prior to the announcement of Beatification ceremony, the Holy Episcopal Synod of the Malankara Church met at the St. Mary's Soonoro Church at Ernakulam.
St. Athanasius Paulose popularly known as 'Valiya Thirumeni', is one of the luminous stars of the Syriac Orthodox Church, who as the head of the Church in India, successfully guided its destiny for nearly four decades. It was his firm faith, persistent efforts and ardent prayers that helped the Malankara Syrian community to maintain their ancient links with the Holy See of Antioch. Valiya Thirumeni is the founder father of many of the spiritual organizations like Sunday School Association, Mor Gregorios Youth Association etc.. Consecrated as Metropolitan for the Angamali diocese in 1910 by Patriarch Mor Ignatius Abded `Aloho (Abdulla II), he became the Malankara Metropolitan of the Jacobite Syrian Church in 1918. After serving the Church in Malankara for more than four decades, he passed away on 25th January 1953 at the age of 84.
Known for his piety, integrity, sincerity and unflinching faith, the spiritual father is remembered by the Malankara Church with great veneration. Valiya Thirumeni loved his people and defended them until his last, leaving behind him a magnificent legacy. He dedicated his entire life for the cause of the Church and the society. People revere him as a saintly father; he is the pride of the Malankara Jacobite Syrian Church. Fifty one years after his demise, on 19th August 2004, the Church beatified Mor Athanasius Paulose. Valiya Thirumeni is the only prelate from India, other than Chathuruthy St. Gregorios Geevarghese (Parumala Thirumeni) of Malankara who has been raised to the status of sainthood.
Child-hood
Valiya Thirumeni was born on 23rd Jan 1869 to 'Mathai’ of Ayyambillil Thekkekarayil family and ‘Anna’ of Kuttikatt Pynadathu family of Nayathodu at Akaparambu, Angamali. He was christened by name PAULOSE at the ancient Akaparambu Mor Sabor Mor Apfroth church. Thirumeni grew up in his mother's house (Pynadathu) at Akaparambu as she being the only child of her parents had inherited the property. Hence most of the people recognize Valiya Thirumeni as one from the Kuttikatt Pynadathu family.
From childhood days Paulose had shown deep affection in spiritual matters. He was greatly interested in the study of scriptures and in religious practices. His extraordinary brilliance caught the eye of everybody. Ambatt Mor Kurillos Geevarghese, the then Metropolitan of Angamali diocese, came to know about him. Under his advise, young Paulose became a regular server in the Madboho of the Akaparambu Church. When Moran Mor Ignatius Peter IV, the Patriarch of Antioch was celebrating the Holy Qurbono in the church during his Apostolic visit to India in 1876, Kunji Pailo as he was fondly called, a child of mere 7 years old, was instructed by Ambatt Metropolitan to read the fifth tubden (Diptych) in Syriac. In his ringing musical voice while he was reading it, the Patriarch looked back at the enlightened child and specially blessed the boy after the Holy Qurbono, an essential pass to achieve higher levels of spiritual glory later in life.
On 21st April 1879 at the tender age of ten, young Paulose was ordained Deacon by Ambatt Thirumeni. The Metropolitan taught our Deacon Paulose, theology and Syriac. His English education was at the Alwaye Government High School. Soon he was sent to the seminary at Kottayam where he was under the direct care of Pulikottil Joseph Mor Divanasios. By the time he passed matriculation from the C.M.S. School he had almost completed his education in the seminary as well. Shortly thereafter he was given the assignment of a Malpan (teacher) in the seminary where he remained sometime till 1895 when he was taken home due to a severe illness of typhoid. He was about to die, but only miraculously escaped; thanks to his prayers. This was a turning point in his life, he vowed to devote the rest of his life for the Church. After recovery, he was given charge of the construction of the St.Mary's church at Thrikunnathu, Alwaye (there was no seminary then).
Ordination as 'Kassisso' & 'Ramban' by Parumala Thirumeni
On 25th November 1898, Deacon Paulose was ordained 'Kassisso' (Full Priest) by St. Gregorios Geevarghese (Parumala Thirumeni). After three days, on 28th, he was ordained 'Ramban' (Monk-Priest, Rabban), again at the blessed hands of Mor Gregorios assisted by Pulikottil Mor Divanasios and Kadavil Mor Athanasius Metropolitans. From then on he came to be popularly known as KOCHU PAULOSE RAMBAN. There was then the other Paulose Ramban of Kochuparambil (Later Paulose Mor Kurillos Malankara Metropolitan -d. 1917) in Malankara.
Kochu Paulose Ramban (Valiya Thirumeni) in Parumala Seminary
Before the completion of the church at Thrikunnathu, Kochu Paulose Ramban was entrusted with construction of the seminary at Parumala by Metropolitan Mor Gregorios Geevarghese (Parumala Thirumeni). Hence he moved to Parumala with the consent of Kadavil Paulose Mor Athanasius (Senior) who was looking after the Angamali diocese after the demise of Ambatt Thirumeni. The Ramban was actively involved in giving shape to Parumala Dayro, staying there for three years. On completion of the work there, he returned to Alwaye.
St.Gregorios in great admiration of the spiritual gifts latent in the Ramban, presented him with a 'Seelamudi', 'Pathraseen' and a copy of the book detailing the service of ordination - the prophetic gifts which are not required by a Ramban but revealed the path the Ramban would tread later in life.
Thrikkunnathu Seminary & Kochu Paulose Ramban
On his return to Alwaye, Kadavil Mor Athanasius (Senior) Metropolitan entrusted Kochu Paulose Ramban the responsibility of completing the construction of seminary building. Within the next three years the seminary which is now known as Thrikkunnathu Seminary, was opened. Later when Pynadath Kochu Paulose Ramban was ordained Metropolitan and assumed the charge of Angamali diocese, he expanded the Seminary building again. It was he who brought many people to Alwaye from nearby villages and gave them land to construct houses around the seminary. He even sold his ancestral property at Akaparambu for financing the construction of this Seminary building, thus replacing the old, fragile and worn out structure. Under him, Thrikkunnathu Seminary became a major theological centre in the north. It was the centre of activities of the Church in Malankara for several decades which nurtured many of our blessed apostolic dignitaries; late lamented Catholicos Aboon Mor Baselios Paulose II, Mor Gregorios (Vayaliparambil), Mor Sevarios (Mulayirickal), Mor Clemis Abraham (Knanaya), etc.
Arrival of the Patriarch Mor Ignatius Abdulla II (Abded'Aloho) in Malankara
When Metropolitan Kadavil Mor Athanasius (Sr.) was called to eternal rest in 1907, there were only 2 Metropolitans remaining in Malankara, Pulikottil Mor Divanasios and Murimattom Mor Ivanios who were in their very advanced ages, to look after the Jacobite Syrian Christians here. In order to ease their heavy load of diocesan administration that spread all over Malankara, they appealed to the Patriarch for consecrating more Metropolitans. The Holy Father approved their appeal and on 31st May 1908, Kochuparambil Paulose Mor Kurillos and Wattasseril Geevarghese Mor Divanasios were consecrated by the Patriarch Moran Mor Ignatius Abdulla II at the St.Mark's Syrian Orthodox Monastery, Jerusalem, as Theebel (general) Metropolitans. The delegation that went for the ordination had then, on behalf of Malankara Church, officially submitted the request to the Patriarch for H.H's visit to Malankara. Meanwhile there also aroused some dissatisfaction among the supporters of Wattasseril Methran since the Patriarch had not then yielded to their wishes to declare Wattasseril Metropolitan as the SUCCESSOR to the Malankara Metropolitan. His Holiness could not comply with the request as it being a violation of canon and practices of the Church (Pulikottil Mor Divanasios was alive then); so the Patriarch instead appointed Wattasseril Metropolitan as assistant to the Malankara Metropolitan. (Appointing a Patriarch/Catholicose/bishop as successor to another, who is functioning, is against the canonical traditions and hence is strictly followed by the ancient Churches). This incident is said to be the first cause of the unhappy revolt of Wattasseril Metropolitan, that happened some years later, against the Patriarch.
A year later on 11th July 1909, Pulikottil Mor Divanasios was called to his heavenly abode while the Patriarch was in London on his way to India. Immediately Wattasseril Metran cabled to the Patriarch in London to issue orders appointing him as Malankara Metropolitan. Being informed of the matter by the Apostolic delegate Mor Osthatheos Sleeba, His Holiness issued orders appointing Mor Geevarghese Divanasios (Wattasseril) as Malankara Metropolitan. By the end of the year, the Patriarch arrived here from London via, Alexandria. Wattasseril Metropolitan and other church dignitaries received the Holy Father at Mumbai. But very soon Wattasseril Methran started rebellion by raising unnecessary allegations against the Patriarch when His Holiness warned him for ignoring the two co-trustees who were in charge of the Beth Gaza (Treasury) together with the Wattasseril Metropolitan. The events that followed led to the formation of a anti-Patriarch group within the Holy Church under Wattasseril Metropolitan and his followers. Wattasseril Methran already had a vengeance against the Patriarch since H.H. had not approved him as the successor of Malankara metropolitan at the time of his ordination itself.
The adamant attitude of Wattasseril Metropolitan that he is unquestionable to anyone and his willful actions violating the paternal instructions of the Holy Father, culminated in his excommunication from the Holy Church by the apostolic bull of 31st May 1911 - just on the day completing 3 years of the metropolitan's consecration.
The Church in Malankara was in turmoil. To hold and firm up the Jacobites in the true faith, more apostolic shepherds were in urgent need. The Angamali diocese, meanwhile, resolved to appeal to the Patriarch to kindly consecrate Kochu Paulose Ramban as their Metropolitan. Having received testimonies about the zeal in faith, purity of character and industrious nature of the Ramban, the Holy Father was only happy to accept the request.
Consecration as Metropolitan
On 9th June 1910 Kochu Paulose Ramban was consecrated Metropolitan (Archbishop) by name 'MOR ATHANASIUS PAULOSE', at his home parish, the ancient Mor Sabor and Mor Afroth church, Akaparambu, by H.H. the Patriarch of Antioch and all the East Mor Ignatius Abded’ Aloho (Abdulla II). The very next year on 19th August 1911, when the HOLY MUROON was consecrated in Malankara (at the Mulanthuruthy Mar Thoman church) for the second time in the long history of Malankara Church, Mor Athanasius was fortunate to assist His Holiness the Patriarch.
On 14th October 1911, the holy Patriarch left the shores of Kerala, with a heavy heart. Valiya Thirumeni (Mor Athanasius), the Antiochean delegate Mor Osthatheos Sleeba and Malankara Malpan Konatt Mathen Corepiscopa escorted the Holy Father to Mumbai and bid farewell with tearful eyes and whimpering hearts.
As the Metropolitan of Angamali (the largest among all the dioceses in Malankara), Mor Athanasius administered the diocese staying at the partially completed Thrikkunnathu Seminary building. He also then held the additional charge of the diocese of Cochin.
Malankara Metropolitan
After the demise of Mor Kurillos Paulose (Kochuparambil), Mor Athanasius Thirumeni became the Malankara Metropolitan in 1918. A year later on 26th Sep 1919, Malankara Sunday School Association (M.S.S.A) was formed at a meeting held at the Piravom Valiya church under the guidance of Mor Athanasius Thirumeni. His Grace was then chosen as the first president of the Association.
On 6th May 1922, under instruction from our Valiya Thirumeni, the Students organization of the Jacobite Syrian Church convened at Cheruthottukunnel church at Angamali, renamed itself as 'Mar Gregorios Students Association' after his beloved malpan Chathuruthy Mor Gregorios Geevarghese (Parumala Thirumeni). This was the first student’s organization in Malankara that assumed the name of St.Gregorios. ('Mar Gregorios Orthodox Christian Students Movement'-MGOCSM, was named as such only in 1960's after the reunification of the Vattasseril faction with the Jacobite Syrian Church.)
On 19th March 1930, Saint Osthatheos Sleeba, the Patriarchal delegate died and was entombed at the Arthat Simhasana church. Mor Athanasius Thirumeni was a very close associate of Mor Osthatheos Bawa.
Apostolic visit of the Patriarch St. Ignatius Elias III to Malankara
The same year in 1930, Patriarch Mor Ignatius Elias III visited India to strive for peace in the Malankara Syrian church. Mor Athanasius being the chief of the Malankara Church, was fortunate enough to accompany His Holiness throughout the Apostolic visit and participated in the discussions held in this regard. Unfortunately, His Holiness passed away on 13th Feb 1932 before accomplishing the mission, and was entombed at the Manjanikkara Dayro, which has now become a famous Pilgrim centre. Malankara Metropolitan Mor Athanasius Paulose led the last ceremonial rites of this holy Patriarch which was attended by all the Metropolitans of the Malankara Church and other top dignitaries including the representatives of the government.
Historic Malankara Association of 1935
At the historic Malankara Association meeting held on 22nd August 1935 at the Karingachira St.George church, Mor Athanasius Thirumeni was once again unanimously elected as Malankara Metropolitan. Besides His Eminence, those who attended the Holy Synod and the convention were, Mor Dionysius Mikhail of Kottayam, Niranam, Thumpamon and Quilon dioceses, Mar Thimotheos Augen of Kandanad (later Catholicos Augen I) and Mar Dioscorus Thomas of Knanaya dioceses. A Priest trustee (Pookunnel Rev. Fr. Avira Joseph) and a lay trustee (Thukalan Pailo Avira) were also elected at this Malankara Suryani Christian Association that was held with the approval of the judiciary.
'Defender of Faith' (Viswasa Samrakshakan)
Malankara Church is very fortunate for having Mor Athanasius Paulose as its Prelate for fourty-two years. Under his guidance, the Church had overcome many of the adverse situations. Undaunted faith in Our Lord was his strength. Like his predecessors Mor Athanasius Thirumeni too, was always very determined to follow the pledge he had given to His Holiness the Patriarch of Antioch at the time of his consecration. Though His Grace had to face stiff challenge from those who tried to disassociate themselves from the Apostolic faith of the Holy See of Antioch, he administered the Church with a Godly mission. Because of his determination to uphold the traditions of the Holy Church, he is often described in the Church history as Sathya Viswasa Samrakshakan ('Defender of True Faith'), a title conferred to him by the Patriarch Mor Ignatius Aphrem I. The people also affectionately called him Valiya Thirumeni.
Many of the Church’s institutions were first organized by Valiya Thirumeni. The saddest moment in the life of Mor Athanasius Thirumeni was when Mar Augen Thimotheos of Kandanad diocese, deserted the Holy Church in 1942, in one of its difficult periods. Later on the request of Valiya Thirumeni, the Malankara Church elected two Metropolitans in 1946 and His Holiness the Patriarch of Antioch ordained them as Mor Geevarghese Gregorios (Vayaliparambil, Alwaye) and Mor Severious Paulose (Mulayirikkal family, Cherai- founder of Koratty Zion Seminary). Late lamented Metropolitan Mor Clemis Abraham of Knanaya diocese had his theological education under Valiya Thirumeni, staying at Thrikkunnathu Seminary. A few months before the demise of Mor Athanasius Thirumeni, Metropolitan Mor Philoxenos Paulose was ordained for the Kandanad diocese. (Mor Philoxenos later became the Catholicos of the East in 1974 by name Mor Baselios Paulose II)
On 25th January 1953, Our Lord called His Eminence Mor Athanasius Valiya Thirumeni to his eternal rest in heaven, at the ripe age of 84 years. The mortal remains of the Holy Father were interred at the northern side of the MADBOHO of the St.Mary's church at Thrikkunnathu, Alwaye, confirming to his last wish.
Mor Athanasius Valiya Thirumeni, the Saintly Father of the Malankara Church
Simplicity and hospitality were the hallmarks of Thirumeni. Whoever visited Alwaye Seminary went back praising Valiya Thirumeni’s hospitality. There are many incidences that explain the divinity in Thirumeni. Once a lady who was suffering from hemorrhage for several years and had spent a lot of money on medical treatments, approached Thirumeni who prayed for her and she was healed of the disease. Another known event is that of the miraculous recovery of a man called Varkey who was suffering from demon’s attacks for twenty years. This mad fellow was cured immediately after our Saintly Thirumeni placed his Sleeba (Cross) on his forehead and prayed. Many such blessed events are recalled by the elders. Thirumeni's divine life of prayers and meditation was an inspiration for all. Even in the midst of administrative duties he found enough time in preaching the Holy Gospel. He is also recognized as a great Syriac scholar.
Mor Athanasius College of Engineering at Kothamangalam, Mor Athanasius High School at Nedumbassery, Mor Athanasius English Medium School at Puthencuriz, are some of the major institutions erected to his memory; Valiya Thirumeni continues to live among us. The sandalwood cot used by Thirumeni is kept in a separate room of the office of his home parish, the Mor Sabor Mor Aphroth Church at Akaparambu. Many devotees visit the church, paying homage to the late lamented Thirumeni and pray for his intercession.
Beatification of Mor Athanasius Paulose-Valiya Thirumeni, the Malankara Metropolitan
Conferring to the wishes of the multitude of faithful, the Malankara Episcopal Synod in 2001 requested His Holiness the Patriarch, to beatify Mor Athanasius Paulose and to remember the Saintly Metropolitan's name in the 5th TUBDEN (Diptych) along with that of his mentor Chathuruthy St.Gregorios Geevarghese (Parumala Thirumeni), Patriarch Mor Ignatius Elias III (Majanikkara) and Maphriyono Mor Baselios Yeldho (Kothamangalam).
On 19th August 2004, the Supreme head of the Universal Syrian Orthodox Church, H.H. Ignatius Zakka I Iwas issued the historic bull, canonizing Mor Athanasius Paulose, as Saint. The announcement was made at the Patriarchal Cathedral, Damascus, Syria.
The very next day, at a solemn function held under the auspices of Catholicos Aboon Mor Baselios Thomas I at the Akaparambu Mor Sabor Afroth Church (the home parish of St. Athanasius), the Patriarchal Bull conferring sainthood to Valiya Thirumeni was announced by H.E. Mor Julius Kuriakose, the first secretary to the Patriarch of Antioch & the Metropolitan in charge of the Indian affairs.
The Metropolitans of Malankara, several Priests and a great number of faithful from all over Malankara were present at the Church to hear the historic proclamation. Prior to the announcement of Beatification ceremony, the Holy Episcopal Synod of the Malankara Church met at the St. Mary's Soonoro Church at Ernakulam.
Monday, June 15, 2009
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