In Memoriam: Catholicos Aboon Mor Baselios Thomas I, A Pillar of Faith and Service

The Malankara Jacobite Syrian Christian community mourns the passing of its esteemed leader, Catholicos Aboon Mor Baselios Thomas I, who departed this life on 31 October 2024 at the age of 95. Known for his resilience, humility, and profound faith, Catholicos Thomas I’s life was a testament to selfless service and spiritual fortitude.

Born on 22 July 1929 in Vadayambadi, Puthencruz, Catholicos Thomas I, originally named C M Thomas, faced early hardships. Despite being born into an aristocratic family, his household experienced significant economic challenges during his youth, which, along with recurring illnesses, impacted his education. However, his mother’s fervent prayers and unshakeable faith ultimately inspired her to dedicate him to a life of service to the Church—a decision that would shape his journey profoundly.

Path to Priesthood and Spiritual Leadership

Guided from an early age by revered mentors in the faith, including Mor Philoxenos Paulose (later Catholicos Mor Baselios Paulose II), young Thomas found a path that combined spiritual growth with unwavering dedication to his community. In 1952, he was ordained as ‘Korooyo’ (sub-deacon), and by 1958, he took up the role of ‘Kassisso’ (full priest) under Mor Yulius Elias. This marked the beginning of a ministry characterised by devotion and compassion.

Throughout his clerical life, Catholicos Thomas I served various parishes, notably in St. Peter’s Church in Puthencruz, Vellathooval, Keezhumuri, and Fort Kochi. He worked tirelessly, often joining labourers in the physical renovation of these churches, an act that illustrated his humble and approachable nature. His work expanded beyond parish boundaries, as he played a key role in establishing hospitals, missions, and community welfare programmes, such as the Mor Baselios Medical Mission Hospital in Kothamangalam.

Defender of Faith Amidst Challenges

The 1970s and 80s brought significant challenges for the Jacobite Syrian Christian community, with legal and social disputes threatening the Church’s cohesion. Undeterred, Catholicos Thomas I, then Metropolitan Mor Dionysius, alongside Metropolitans Mor Geevarghese Gregorios and Mor Koorilos Kuriakose, provided steadfast leadership, visiting congregations across regions to fortify their spirits and remind them of the enduring strength of faith.

In 2002, Mor Dionysius was consecrated as Catholicos with the title Baselios Thomas I by the Patriarch of Antioch, His Holiness Moran Mor Ignatius Zakka I Iwas, at St. Peter’s and St. Paul’s Cathedral in Mor Ephrem Monastery, near Damascus. His consecration was a historic moment, restoring the role of Catholicos to the Jacobite Syrian Christian Church after a six-year hiatus. As Catholicos, he served as the second-highest leader in the global Syrian Orthodox Church, second only to the Patriarch of Antioch.

Under his spiritual guidance, the Church grew in both strength and unity. Catholicos Thomas I was instrumental in ordaining approximately 350 priests and supporting the establishment of various educational institutions, hospitals, and other community projects. His compassionate leadership during times of persecution saw him stand with his people, enduring personal arrests and becoming an accused in hundreds of cases to uphold the rights and dignity of his community.

A Life Marked by Prayer, Compassion, and Dedication

Known for his compassion, Catholicos Thomas I was a humble and approachable leader whose sermons resonated deeply with the faithful. His dedication to community welfare was unwavering, whether in supporting coal mine workers, caring for tuberculosis patients at Varikoli Hospital, or advocating for cemetery access for his people. His 44-day fast at Pazhanthottam Church demonstrated his extraordinary resilience and commitment to justice.

Even in the final years of his life, despite advanced age and health challenges, he continued to inspire. His enduring legacy is reflected not only in the numerous institutions he helped establish but also in the hearts of those he touched with his kindness and faith.

Final Farewell and Funeral Arrangements

Following his passing, thousands of mourners gathered at Kothamangalam Cheriapally to pay homage. His mortal remains will be interred on 2 November 2024 at the Puthencruz Patriarchal Centre, where a specially constructed tomb will serve as his final resting place. Churches and institutions under the Jacobite Syrian Christian Church will observe 14 days of mourning, a period of reflection and gratitude for a life lived in service to others.

A Legacy of Brotherhood and Unity

As a final act of fraternity, His Eminent Beatitude Moran Mor Baselios Cleemis Catholicos of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church, along with Syro-Malankara Catholic bishops, will attend the funeral service, joining the faithful in a unified tribute to Catholicos Thomas I. This gesture exemplifies the deep respect shared between these communities and honours a leader who lived his life in the spirit of solidarity.

Catholicos Aboon Mor Baselios Thomas I’s passing is not only a loss for the Jacobite Syrian Church but for all who were inspired by his life. He leaves behind a legacy of humility, resilience, and unwavering devotion to faith, a life that will continue to be celebrated for generations to come.