Mar Raphael Thattil becomes the fourth head of Syro-Malabar Church

Kochi: In a historic and grand ceremony held at Mount St Thomas in Kakkanad on Thursday, January 11, 2024, Mar Raphael Thattil, the Bishop of Shamshabad, was officially installed as the Major Archbishop of the Syro-Malabar Church. This significant event marks a new era for one of the largest Eastern Catholic Churches globally.

The installation ceremony was led by Mar Sebastian Vaniyapurackal, the Curia Bishop of the Syro-Malabar Church. It was attended by a distinguished gathering of archbishops, bishops, priests, Vatican representatives, and other dignitaries from various Catholic Churches.

A pivotal moment of the ceremony was the reading of a letter from Pope Francis, which confirmed Mar Raphael Thattil’s canonical election as the Major Archbishop. The Pope’s letter also extended apostolic blessings and prayers to the new leader and the faithful of the Syro-Malabar Church.

At the age of 67, Mar Raphael Thattil becomes the fourth Major Archbishop of the Syro-Malabar Church, succeeding Cardinal Mar George Alencherry following his resignation. Notably, Mar Raphael Thattil is the first Major Archbishop elected from outside Kerala, reflecting the growing diversity of the Church.

Born in Thrissur, Mar Raphael Thattil’s ecclesiastical journey began with his ordination in 1980. He has since served in various roles within the Thrissur Archdiocese, including his appointment as Auxiliary Bishop in 2010 and later as the first Bishop of the Syro-Malabar Catholic Eparchy of Shamshabad in 2017.

In his new role, Mar Raphael Thattil will steer the Syro-Malabar Church, a community deeply rooted in the traditions brought by St Thomas the Apostle to India in the first century. The Church is known for its unique East Syrian liturgy, customs, and canon law.

The enthronement ceremony was a blend of solemnity and cultural richness, live-streamed for thousands of global Syro-Malabar Catholics. It featured prayers, hymns, and cultural programs, symbolizing the unity and diversity of the Church.

During the enthronement speeches, Bishop Cleemis of the Syro-Malankara Church emphasized the historical significance of the event. He conveyed the prayers and greetings of the Kerala churches and the Malankara Church. He highlighted Mar Raphael Thattil’s role as the shepherd of the large and historic Syro-Malabar Church, expressing confidence in its prosperous future under his leadership.

Bishop Mar Cleemis, in his heartfelt message, said, “We are witnessing history. As Mar Thomas the Apostle’s legacy continues, Mar Raphael Thattil is enthroned as the father and head of the Syro-Malabar Church. I convey the prayers and greetings of the churches in Kerala and the Malankara Church. Mar Joseph Pamplany, in his sermon, has already imparted wisdom beautifully. In your installation as bishop, you had sought my presence. At that time you asked for the ‘arthavakyam’ – to be broken and given. Now, as the shepherd of this historic church, your journey will be blessed with the responsibility of nurturing its relationships and steering its future.”

Responding to Bishop Cleemis, Mar Raphael Thattil expressed his gratitude: “Dear Bishop Cleemis, your presence and words have always been a source of strength for us. Your presence today, despite difficulties, shows the close bond between our churches. I promise that the Syro-Malabar Church, the Malankara Church, and the Latin Church will stand united like three flowers of one plant. Your consistent thoughtfulness and support for us are deeply appreciated and strengthen us.”

Mar Raphael Thattil’s installation as the new Major Archbishop is a momentous event, heralding a period of continuity and growth for the Syro-Malabar Church, as it upholds its rich traditions while adapting to contemporary challenges. The Church looks forward to his guidance in fostering unity among the various Catholic rites in India and beyond.