His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Geevarghese Mor Divannasios Enters Eternal Rest

Tiruvalla ∙ The Syro-Malankara Catholic Church mourns the loss of His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Geevarghese Mor Divannasios, former bishop of the Eparchies of Puthur and Bathery, who passed away at the age of 67. His earthly journey came to an end on 16 January 2018 at 2:45 PM at Pushpagiri Medical College Hospital, Tiruvalla, after a prolonged battle with diabetes.

The final rites were held at St. John’s Cathedral, Tiruvalla, on 18 January 2018 at 2:00 PM. His mortal remains were placed at the Cathedral for public homage, where His Eminent Beatitude Cardinal Moran Mor Baselios Cleemis Catholicos and other bishops led prayers in his memory.

A Life of Dedication and Service

Born on 1 November 1950 to N.S. Varghese and Mariamma in the Ottathengil family from Anaprambal, Edathua, Mor Divannasios was the second of eight children. In 1956, his family migrated to South Canara in Karnataka, settling in Ichilampady, a picturesque village in the region. In 1962, the family embraced the Catholic faith, a pivotal moment that shaped his future spiritual journey.

After completing his schooling, he began his seminary formation in 1966 at the Infant Mary Minor Seminary in the Eparchy of Tiruvalla. In 1970, he was sent to St. Paul’s Seminary in Tiruchirappalli for philosophical and theological studies. During his formation, he developed an interest in Carnatic music, dedicating time to mastering the art.

Fr. Varghese Ottathengil was ordained a priest on 20 April 1978 by His Grace Benedict Mor Gregorios. Following his ordination, he served as assistant vicar of five parish stations at Nilambur and later as the vicar of parishes at Narangathode, Onjil, Mycavu, and Manalvayal.

In 1980, he was sent to Rome for higher studies, where he earned his Ph.D. in Spiritual Theology. Returning to India in 1987, he was appointed the vicar of Palanthadom parish in Kasargod and simultaneously took charge as the Rector of the Minor Seminary in the Eparchy of Bathery. He also served as the vicar of the cathedral parish during this time.

In May 1990, he was entrusted with the role of Rector of St. Mary’s Malankara Major Seminary, Trivandrum, during its formative years. His tenure of seven years was marked by significant development and growth, culminating in the seminary hosting the CBCI General Body Meeting in 1996, an event that showcased his exceptional leadership.

Episcopal Leadership

On 18 December 1996, His Holiness Pope John Paul II appointed him as the Bishop of Bathery, succeeding Cyril Mor Baselios. He was consecrated a bishop on 5 February 1997 at Bathery by His Grace Cyril Mor Baselios, receiving the name Geevarghese Mor Divannasios. As the second bishop of the Eparchy of Bathery, he led the faithful with vision and dedication for 13 years.

His sacerdotal Silver Jubilee was celebrated in 2003. In 2007, following the demise of Moran Mor Cyril Baselios Catholicos, Mor Divannasios served as the Administrator of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church during a period of transition, providing stable leadership to the Church.

In 2010, he became the first bishop of the newly established Eparchy of Puthur, carved out of the Eparchy of Bathery. Under his leadership, the eparchy grew spiritually and pastorally. Due to health reasons, he retired from active ministry on 24 January 2017, dedicating his remaining days to prayer and rest.

A Legacy of Faith and Scholarship

Mor Divannasios’ unwavering commitment to the Syriac heritage of the Church was evident throughout his life. As the Rector of St. Mary’s Malankara Seminary, he played a crucial role in shaping the spiritual and theological education of future priests. His doctoral research in spiritual theology, focused on the Syriac tradition, remains a valuable resource for scholars and seminarians.

He was also a visionary leader who recognized the importance of combining pastoral care with academic excellence. His contributions to theological education and spiritual formation inspired countless seminarians and priests.

Personal Milestones and Family

Mor Divannasios is survived by his siblings: Achamma Rajan (Alappuzha), George Varghese (Germany), Eliamma Solomon (Mangaluru), Valsamma Sebastian (Karnataka), Dr. Susan Zacharia Varghese (UK), Gracy George (Switzerland), and Reji Mathew (Canada). His feast day is observed on 29 November, a date that commemorates his enduring spiritual legacy.

Farewell Details

The funeral rites began with prayers at 2:00 PM on 18 January 2018 at St. John’s Cathedral, Tiruvalla. The Church invited the faithful to join in paying their respects and offering prayers for the eternal repose of his soul.

A Final Reflection

In his life, His Excellency Geevarghese Mor Divannasios embodied a profound love for the Church and a steadfast commitment to its mission. From his early days in Ichilampady to his service as the first bishop of Puthur, he left an indelible mark on the Malankara Catholic Church. His devotion to preserving the Syriac tradition, coupled with his pastoral and academic contributions, will continue to inspire generations. As we bid farewell to this humble and devoted servant of God, let us unite in prayer, trusting in the hope of resurrection that he so faithfully proclaimed.