In an exceptional display of solidarity, His Eminent Beatitude Moran Mor Baselios Cleemis Catholicos, Major Archbishop-Catholicos of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church, has altered his Kuwait schedule to return to Kerala and participate in the final rites of Catholicos Aboon Mor Baselios Thomas I, the esteemed spiritual head of the Malankara Jacobite Syrian Church. His Eminence will join clergy and faithful in honouring the departed Catholicos, reflecting the strong bonds shared between these two ancient Christian communities.
The beloved Catholicos of the Jacobite Syrian Church, Aboon Mor Baselios Thomas I, passed away on 31 October 2024 at the age of 95 after battling age-related ailments. Known for his guidance and resilience, Catholicos Thomas I led the Church through challenging times, standing firm in his mission for unity and compassion within the faith community.
Catholicos Thomas I’s Final Journey and Funeral Arrangements
The mortal remains of Catholicos Thomas I were brought to Kothamangalam Mar Thoma Cheriapally, allowing the faithful to pay their last respects. Following Holy Mass on Saturday, his remains will be laid to rest at the Puthencruz Patriarchal Centre in a specially constructed tomb. His contributions to the Jacobite Syrian Christian community, from strengthening the diocese’s social outreach to preserving the faith amid challenging times, have left an enduring legacy.
As a mark of respect, all institutions managed by the Jacobite Church will observe a 14-day mourning period. Thousands of devotees and dignitaries, including Archbishops from the United States and the United Kingdom, are expected to attend the funeral.
A Legacy of Faith and Service
Born on 22 July 1929 in Vadayambadi, Puthencruz, into the Cheruvillil family, Catholicos Thomas I’s life journey was defined by a steadfast devotion to faith. Despite health challenges in childhood, his mother’s fervent prayers at Malecruz Dayara led to his miraculous recovery, inspiring her to dedicate him to the service of the Church. His path to priesthood began early, guided by renowned Church leaders, and culminated in his ordination as Catholicos in 2002 by the Patriarch of Antioch, a role in which he served with dedication until his passing.
Throughout his life, Catholicos Thomas I was known for his humility and approachability. His leadership saw the establishment of numerous educational institutions, charitable missions, and a medical mission hospital in Kothamangalam, all aimed at uplifting society and supporting the less fortunate. Amidst the legal and social struggles faced by the Church, he stood alongside his community, even enduring arrest multiple times to uphold the rights of the faithful.
Homage by Syro-Malankara Catholic Bishops
As an expression of inter-church solidarity, distinguished bishops from the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church, including His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Joshua Mor Ignathios and His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Samuel Mor Irenios, attended the solemn ceremonies, offering incense in respect to the departed leader. The presence of these leaders from the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church underscores the mutual respect shared between the two churches, especially in moments of collective sorrow and remembrance.
Public Condolences and Security Arrangements
Public condolences have poured in, including messages from Kerala Governor Arif Mohammed Khan, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, and several other prominent figures, acknowledging Catholicos Thomas I’s lifetime of service. In anticipation of the large turnout for the funeral, traffic regulations and designated parking facilities are in place to facilitate the movement of attendees.
The passing of Catholicos Aboon Mor Baselios Thomas I is a solemn moment, not only for the Jacobite Syrian Church but for the wider Christian community, as they come together to remember a leader whose life was marked by faith, resilience, and dedication to his people.
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