Geevarghese Ramban’s Ordination as

METROPOLITAN

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To have a clear idea about the events that led to the ordination of the six Metropolitans for the Syrian Church in 1876, a brief history of the Church in the early 19th century is explained in the first part.

Part I – History of the Church in the first three quarters of the 19th century

Part II – Ordination of Ramban Geevarghese as METROPOLITAN

Part I

History of the Church in the first 3 quarters of the 19th century

The 19th century is a period in which the Syrian Church in Malankara faced a different type of persecution compared to the Portuguese aggressions of the 16th and the 17th centuries.

The European missionaries who came in large numbers to Malankara from the very beginning of the 19th century initially acted as the well wishers of the Syrian Church. But in the next few years these missionaries tried to bring everything under their control which resulted in friction between the Syrian Christians and the reformists. These missionaries found that it is the continued association of Malankara Syrian Christians with the mother Church at Antioch which make them difficult to penetrate much. So they tried to prevent the Syrian fathers from visiting Malankara.

Mor Dioscorus who came to Malankara in 1806 as the representative of the Patriarch of Antioch had to return soon following a directive from Carnal Makloin, the British Governor. In 1825 another Patriarchal representative by name Mor Athanasius Abdul ‘Mesiha was sent to Malankara on the request of Mor Dionysius III, but he was arrested by the British and later sacked from India. Meanwhile the governmental authorities came in full support of the deposed Metropolitan Palakunnath Mathews Mor Athanasius who was trying to impose Europe’s anti-orthodox belief in the Malankara Jacobite Syrian Church. With the British support these missionaries were even able to manipulate the court orders. The Syrian Christians became frustrated due to the continuous harassing by the judiciary under the British rule.

After the demise of Mor Dionysius III in 1825, Pallipatt Philipose Malpan of Cheppaud became Metropolitan for the Malankara Jacobite Syrian Church by name Mor Dionysius IV. Initially, like his predecessors, he too tried his best to have a good relationship with the British missionaries. But the hostile attitude of these missionaries towards the Syrian Christians forced the Malankara Church to have a rethinking. In 1836 the Church representatives from all over Malankara assembled at Mavelikara Puthiakavu St.Mary’s church under the leadership of Cheppaud Mor Dionysius and reaffirmed their faith in the Holy See of Antioch. The declaration of faith documented at this important Synod is known in the history as MAVELIKARA PADIYOLA. This resulted in the end of the cordial relationship the Malankara Church had with the British missionaries, if any. Meanwhile, through a Panchayath judgment, Church Missionary Society (C.M.S) got most of the properties of the Malankara Jacobite Syrian Church. (Click Here to access the full text of the ‘Mavelikara Padiyola’)

In 1846 Metropolitan Mor Kurillos Yuyakkim from Tur-Abdin was send to Malankara by the Patriarch Mor Ignatius Yakoob II to enquire about the anti-church activities of Palakunnath Metran and to take necessary actions if found necessary. Palakunnath Mor Athanasius Metran was found guilty and was excommunicated from the Holy Church through a decree of the Patriarch. But the deposed metropolitan, influenced the Travancore Courts through his friend, the British Resident. In 1848, the two officers of the panchayat appointed by the Travancore Government made a declaration in favour of the Palakunnath Metran. In 1849 another Metropolitan Mor Athanasius Stephanos was send by the Patriarch to hold discussions with the British government. But the British Resident disallowed even the stay of delegates in either the Travancore or Cochin States. Mor Athanasius Stephanos left for England and briefed the directors of ‘East India Company’ about the difficulties faced by the Malankara Church under British rule. Finally the Metropolitan received a favourable decision which resulted in the cancellation of the previous orders issued by the Resident Governor of British India. This was the only moral victory for the Church at that time. In 1855, Mor Dionysius IV (Cheppatt Thirumeni) died and the Patriarchal delegate Mor Kurillos Yuyakkim was left alone to lead the Malankara Syrian Church. The local British authorities meanwhile raised new objections against the delegate which made it difficult to perform his administrative responsibilities.

The Patriarch then requested the Malankara Church to select a bishop candidate from among themselves as he wanted to call back the delegates who were facing many difficulties. Moreover the increasing number of court cases, the unawareness of local language, climatic variations etc. made the life of the delegates in Malankara very hazardous. So the Patriarch may have thought it better to appoint a native as Bishop to manage the temporal affairs of Malankara Church. (Ref:- page 26 of Biography of Mor Dionysius V published in 1901). But the Malankara Church wished to had the presence of a Patriarchal delegate in Malankara and they unanimously submitted this request before their spiritual supreme. Finally the Patriarch decided to retain Metropolitan Mor Kurillos Yuyakkim here in Malankara; he stayed here giving spiritual guidance to the local Church (Biography of Mor Dionysius V).

In 1865, Rev.Fr. Joseph Pulikottil of Kunnamkulam, who was elected as the Metropolitan-delegate, left for Mardin for his ordination. After a long journey Fr.Joseph reached Patriarchal Head quarters at the Dayro of Mardin in Turkey. There he was ordained as Metropolitan by name Mor Dionysius on 26th Medam (Sunday), 1865. On his return the new Metropolitan together with Mor Kurillos Yuyakkim worked hard for the reestablishment of the Apostolic faith here, particularly in southern Travancore, where the missionary activities was in its heights. A decade later on September 2, 1874, Mor Kurillos Yuyakkim died and was entombed at the Mulunthuruthy Church. Metropolitan Joseph Mor Dionysius found it very difficult to stand against the influential ‘reformists’ group led by Palakunnath Methran. The Malankara Syrian Christians then was facing a loosing battle. Hence the Malankara Church again send requests to the Patriarch for urgent help.

The seriousness of the situation and the consideration for his faithful prompted the Patriarch Mor Ignatius Pathros IV (III) to travel all the way to Malankara ignoring his old age (74) and health. For a man of his age, this long journey that continued for many months was extremely difficult. H.H. the Patriarch started from Mardin in 1874. He first went to London and pleaded before the India Secretary residing there. Impressed by His Holiness, the British authorities at London advised the Madras government to avoid any unnecessary interference in the internal affairs of the Malankara Jacobite Syrian Church. Until then the Metropolitans ordained for the Malankara Church had to first get the concurrence of the British India authorities for their functioning. The European missionaries who came here with the support of the British East India Company neatly exploited this situation. Consequent to the discussions with the Patriarch, British government agreed to revoke this very clause. After successfully completing his mission at London, the Patriarch continued his journey to India.

The holy Patriarch reached Malankara in June 1875. The local governmental authorities reversed its earlier decisions which were against the interests of the Church. The Patriarchal bull to excommunicate the rebellious Metropolitan Palakunnath Mathews Mor Athanasius was endorsed by the government. All the cases regarding the Church properties were left to independent Judicial authorities. Thus the first part of the Patriarchal mission ended successfully and the Malankara Syrian Church was able to recoup its lost confidence.

The Patriarch, then wanted to reorganize the administration of the Malankara Church. Important decisions were taken after several rounds of talks with the local Church members. On 29th June 1876, His Holiness convened a Synod at the Mulunthuruthy MarThoman Church which lasted for 3 days; the Metropolitans participated were Mor Gregorios Abdulla of Jerusalem (later Patriarch of Antioch (1906-15) Mor Ignatius Abded’Aloho) and Mor Dionysius Joseph of Malankara. The chief organizer of this historic Synod was Chathuruthy Geevarghese Ramban. The Ramban who was the most trusted aide of the Patriarch, was also His Holiness’s private secretary.

Representatives from 103 Churches signed the agreement at the end of the 3 day session. It was at this Synod the title of Malankara Metropolitan was created. Pulikottil Joseph Mor Dionysius became the first Malankara Metropolitan and was since then known as ‘Mor Dionysius V’. It was as per the decision of this Synod, the Church register was introduced for the first time. Under advise of the Patriarch, a general body by name “Syrian Christian Association” was formed for the effective administration of the Church. A core committee (Managing committee), compromising of 24 members from various parishes were also appointed by His Holiness at this Synod. (CLICK HERE for the list of 24 member committee)

The committee president was Pulikottil Mor Dionysius Thirumeni (Mor Dionysius V Joseph). On the last day of the historic Synod (on 1st July 1876) the participants of the Holy Synod adopted a resolution, popularly known as the “Mulunthuruthy Padiyola”. It was Chathuruthy Geevarghese Ramaban who drafted this historic resolution which says that the Patriarch of Antioch is the supreme head of the Malankara Church, confirming the faith of the Universal Syrian Orthodox Church. A decision was also taken at the Holy Synod to form six new dioceses namely, Angamali, Kandanad, Kochi, Kollam, Niranam, and Thumpamon and Metropolitans (as suffurgans to the Malankara Metropolitan) to be ordained for each dioceses.

Holy Fathers who convened the historic Synod at the Mulunthuruthy MarThoman church in AD 1876

MORAN MOR IGNATIUS PETER IV

Patriarch of Antioch & all the East

(1872-’94)

– Presided the Holy Synod of Malankara Church in 1876 –

— Ordained six metropolitans for the Malankara Church including Parumala Thirumeni –

– Consecrated the Holy MURON in 1876 at the MarThoman Church, Mulunthuruthy –

Mor Dionysius V
Malankara Metropolitan

[Pulikottil Joseph Mor Dionysius]

Mor Gregorios Abded’Aloho
Metropolitan of Jerusalem

[Later Patriarch Mor Ignatius Abded'Aloho {Abdulla II}]

Born in Pulikottil family of Kunnamkulam on 12 Nov, 1833.

Ordained as Metropolitan by Patriarch Mor Ignatius Yakoob II in 1865 at Mardin.

Laid the foundation for the Parumala Seminary in 1872.

Patriarch appoints him Malankara Metropolitan (Chief of the Local church) in 1876.

One of the Chief Organizers of the Holy Synod held at Mulunthuruthy in 1876.

Assisted the Patriarch during Consecration of the Holy MOORON.

Established many schools and institutions. One of the pioneers in the revival of Syriac Christian faith in Malankara

Participated in the historic Holy Synod at Mulunthuruthy in 1876 when he was the Metropolitan of Jerusalem

Assisted the Patriarch during the Consecration of Holy MURON & the Ordination of 6 Metropolitans for the Malankara Church.

Consecrated as the Patriarch of Antioch & all the East on 15th September 1906.

Ordained Metropolitans, Paulose Mor Kurilose & Wattasseril Mor Dionysius for Malankara in 1908 at “SEHION MALIKA”, Jerusalem.

Ordained St. Paulose Mor Athanasius & Mor Sevarious as Metropolitans during his Apostolic visit to Malankara in 1910.

Consecrated the Holy MOORON in 1911 at the Mulunthuruthy MarThoman Church.

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Part II

Ordination of Ramban Geevarghese as

Metropolitan ‘Mor Gregorios’

(ordained by Moran Mor Ignatius Peter IV, the Patriarch of Antioch & All the East)

The Patriarch on reaching Malankara (1875), initially spend most of his time at the MarThoman church, Mulunthuruthy. Ramban Geevarghese (Chathuruthy) was then serving as one of the Priests of that church. Mor Dionysius V (Pulikottil Mor Dionysius Joseph), being well aware of Ramban’s knowledge in Syriac, appointed him as the translator to the Patriarch. Within a few days, His Holiness impressed by Chathuruthy Ramban’s dedication and integrity, appointed him as his private secretary. From then onwards till the Patriarch’s departure in 1877,he continued in this privileged position. It was during this period, the Patriarch elevated ‘Vettikkal KurisuPalli’ as a ‘Dayro’ (Monastery) on the request of Chathuruthy Ramban. It happens to be the first monastery of the Malankara Syrian Church.

Ramban Geevarghese also had the rare privilege to assist His Holiness the Patriarch Peter IV (III) during the consecration of “HOLY MOORON” (Holy Chrism) for the first time in Malankara, at the Mulunthuruthy MarThoman Church on 31st August AD.1876 (M.E. 15th Chingam 1052). He assisted the Patriarch together with Mor Dionysius Joseph of Malankara and Mor Gregorios Abdulla of Jerusalem. (As per the Canon of the Syrian Church, only the supreme head of the Holy Church, the Patriarch, can consecrate the ‘Holy MOORON’ – Ref: Page 128, Biography of Pulikottil Mor Divanasios V, published by Malayala Manorama in 1901)

The Ramban as secretary and as the closest aide of the Patriarch, was in the forefront helping His Holiness to organise the historical Mulunthuruthy Synod (1876) and for the drafting of its various religious and administrative documents. The ‘Mulunthuruthy Padiyola’ in which the history of the Malankara Syrian Church and its Apostolic faith is recorded, was drafted by Chathuruthy Ramban and was later approved by the entire Malankara Church. (Click here for the English translation of the Padiyola).

Finally when the Malankara Syrian Church decided to consecrate six new Metropolitans for the proposed dioceses, the Patriarch impressed by the simplicity, humility and spiritual fervor of Ramban Geevarghese, nominated him to the order of Metropolitan. Initially the Ramban who wanted to remain as a Monk, requested the Patriarch to relieve him from being ordained as Metropolitan, but he finally had to oblige to the wishes of the Holy Father. {Another Metropolitan nominee of the Patriarch, Fr. Geevarghese of Mookencheril had also requested to exempt him and this was accepted by the Patriarch considering his old age.}

On 3rd December 1876 Kadavil Ramban and Konatt Ramban were ordained as Metropolitans by names ‘Mor Athanasius Paulose’ (Kadavil) and ‘Mor Julius Geevarghese’ (Konatt) respectively by the supreme head of the Malankara Church the Patriarch of Antioch, at the ancient St.Thomas church of North Paravur.

Seven days after, on Sunday the 10th of December 1876 (M.E.1052, Vrischikam 27), the Patriarch His Holiness Mor Ignatius Peter III (IV) ordained two more Metropolitans at the North Paravur St.Thomas church; Chathuruthy Geevarghese Ramban was ordained by name ‘MOR GREGORIOS GREGORIOS’ and Ambatt Geevarghese Ramban was ordained by name ‘Mor Kurillos Geevarghese’. Mor Gregorios who was only 29 then, was the youngest of all the newly ordained Metropolitans.

Considering his young age people called him, ‘Kochu Thirumeni’. Later when he assumed charge of Niranam diocese the diocesan headquarters was at Parumala, hence Mor Gregorios also came to be known as ‘Parumala Thirumeni’.

The name ‘Mor Gregorios’ entrusted for Chathuruthy Ramban by the Patriarch during Metropolitan consecration, was the honorable titular of the Metropolitan of Jerusalem diocese under the Holy See of Antioch. It is said that the Patriarch wished to install Chathuruthy Mor Gregorios Kochu Thirumeni as the bishop of Jerusalem, but later the idea has to be dropped on the appeal of the local community leaders.

1. As per traditions of the Syrian Church, the naming of a new Metropolitan is the sole discretion of the supreme head of the Holy Church, the Patriarch. It will not be disclosed even to the Metropolitan-designates till their enthronement.

2. It was the title ‘Mor Gregorios’ of the Jerusalem Archbishoprics, that was earlier recited in the 1st TUBDEN (diptych) after the names of the prevailing Patriarch ‘Mor Ignatius’ and Maphriyono ‘Mor Baselios’ in the Holy Qurbono of the Syrian Orthodox Church. Jerusalem being the most important City in the Christendom, the Metropolitan residing there, had a special privilege. St. Gregorios Abdul’Galeel who re-established the Jacobite faith in Malankara after a period of Portuguese aggression – entombed at North Paravur Church (AD 1681) – was a Metropolitan of the Jerusalem diocese.

Metropolitans ordained by the Patriarch Moran Mor Ignatius Peter IV

in 1876 and 1877

Besides Mor Gregorios, Metropolitans ordained at the North Paravur St.Thomas Church, were Kadavil Paulose Mor Athanasius (on 3rd Dec) for the ‘Kollam diocese’, ‘Konattu Geevarghese Mor Julius’ (3rd Dec) for ‘Thumpamon diocese’ and Ambattu Geevarghese Mor Kurillos (10th Dec) for ‘Angamali diocese’. Two other Metropolitans, ‘Murimattom Paulose Mor Ivanios’ for ‘Kandanad diocese’ and ‘Karoottuveettil Shemavun Mor Dionysius’ for ‘Kochi diocese’ were also ordained by the Patriarch on 17th May 1877 at the Kunnamkulam Chiralayam St. Lazarus Church.

St.Thomas Church at Vadakkan (North) Paravur

(It was here St. Gregorios was ordained Metropolitan

by the Patriarch Moran Mor Ignatius Peter IV on 10th Dec, 1876)

(Click Here to access the church page)

Metropolitans ordained in 1876 & 1877 by His Holiness the Patriarch:-

Ordained date Venue of Ordination Diocese Date of Demise Entombed at :-
1 Kadavil Paulose Mor Athanasius 3rd December 1876 St. Thomas church, Vadakken Paravur Kollam 2 Nov 1907 Aluva Thrikkunnathu St. Mary’s church
2 Konattu Geevarghese Mor Julius 3rd December 1876 St. Thomas church, Vadakken Paravur Thumpamon 21 March 1884 Pampakuda St. John’s church
3 Ambattu Geevarghese Mor Koorilose 10th December 1876 St. Thomas church, Vadakken Paravur Angamaly 9 March 1891 Angamali St. Mary’s Cheriapally
4 Chathuruthy Geevarghese Mor Gregorios 10th December 1876 St. Thomas church, Vadakken Paravur Niranam 2 Nov 1902 Parumala St.Peter’s church
5 Karoottuveettil Shemavun Mor Dionysius 17th May 1877 St. Lazarus church, Chiralayam (Kunnamkulam) Kochi 2 Oct 1886 Kadugamangalam St.Peter’s & St.Paul’s church
6 Murimattom Paulose Mor Ivanios 17th May 1877 St. Lazaruschurch, Chiralayam (Kunnamkulam) Kandanadu 2 May 1913 Pampakuda St.Thomas Cheriyapalli

‘SALMUSA’

At the time of his ordination as Metropolitan, a declaration (Udambadi – ‘SALMUSA’) containing 11 statements was voluntarily submitted by St. Gregorios before his Supreme Spiritual head H.H. Ignatius Peter III (IV), the Patriarch of Antioch & all the East and was later registered at the Govt. Sub-Registrar office.

Excerpts from translated version of the 6th Para says:- “Like all Syrian Christians in Antioch, Malankara, India and the far East, I accept that it is meet and right that I should always be obedient and loyal to the Apostolic creeds, and be subject to the ecclesiastical authority of the exalted Patriarch Moran Mor Ignatius Peter the IIIrd, firmly seated on the ancient Apostolic throne of Antioch and All the East………….. I will never add or subtract, nor deviate to the left or to the right from Your Holiness’s commandments, canonical injunctions, or established rules and procedures………….”. For full Malayalam text of the Salmusa, Click HERE .

Patriarch returns

On 16th May 1877, the Patriarch left for Jerusalem from Bombay, after successfully completing his historical Apostolic visit. It is a well known fact that, it was only the Patriarch’s sincere efforts that helped the Malankara Church to overcome one of its most turbulent times. Before coming to India, he had to travel to, as far as England to persuade the British authorities. Later His Holiness stayed at Malankara for almost two years and helped to reorganize the administration of Malankara Church in a democratic way. These facts are emphatically recorded in many of the books and articles of the time, including the biography of Pulikottil Mor Dionysius written by M P Varkey and published by K I Varghese Mapillai, the then Chief Editor of Malayala Manorama Co. Ltd. in 1901.

In the entire period of the Patriarch’s visit to Malankara, Kochu Thirumeni was His Holiness’s constant companion. When the Holy Synod of the Malankara Church was convened at Mulunthuruthy in 1876, Mor Gregorios functioned as the right hand person of the Patriarch Ignatius Peter IV and all the documents presented there was originally drafted by Parumala Bawa on behalf of his supreme spiritual head, the Patriarch of Antioch. As mentioned earlier, Kochu Thirumeni agreed to be a Metropolitan only because of the Patriarch’s strong request. Their relationship was so unique and incomparable. {The Patriarch Mor Ignatius Peter IV died 17 years later at the age of 94, on 10th Oct 1894 (M.E. 1070 ‘Kanni’ 25) and was entombed at the famous KURKKUMA Dayro in Turkey.} (In some books the date of demise of the Patriarch is mentioned as Sep 24th).

After the departure of the Patriarch, at the behest of Kochu Thirumeni, all the newly ordained Metropolitans observed a 40 day lent at the ‘Vettikkal Dayro’ before their assumption as diocesan Metropolitans. The event was comparable to, Christ’s disciples waiting in prayer for the arrival of Holy Ghost at “Sehiyon Malika” prior to their de

Mor Gregorios Geevarghese
Patron Saint of Malankara

“Our Church was better for having him on earth. Our Church will be better for having him in heaven. He measured up splendidly to a sanctity beyond the ordinary”

. Introduction
. A Brief biography of Mor Gregorios Bava
. The sacred tomb of Mor Gregorios Bava at Parumala
. The ‘SALMUSA’ & ‘STHATHIKON’ of Mor Gregorios
. The famous Portrait by Raja Ravi Varma

Biography of St. Gregorios

. Genealogy
. Child-hood
. As a Young Priest
. Ordination as Ramban (Monk Priest)
. Consecration as Metropolitan
. Establishment of Parumala Seminary; The Gospel Missions
. To the Holy Land
. Last few years
. His Grace’s Heavenly abode

‘Parumala Thirumeni’, a legend

. Contributions in the field of Education
. A lovable Holy Father
. Remembering ‘MOR GREGORIOS’ in the 5th “TUBDEN”
. Close aides
. Some of the Encyclicals & Personal Letters
. Famous Quotes

Sacred Tomb & the marble inscription in the tomb of Saint Gregorios

at St. Peter’s church, Parumala

Holy Relics of the Saint Gregorios at the Malecuriz dayro & Perumpilly church
Click the photos for enlarged view

. Click Here for news on the beginning of Centenary Celebrations

of the Memorial Feast of Mor Gregorios Bava

Inauguration of the centenary celebrations
(Click on the Photo for enlarged view)

Holy Qurbono celebrated by the Prelates of the Jacobite Syrian Church at the Home Parish of Saint Gregorios, the Mulunthuruthy MarThoman church, on Nov 3rd 2001
(Click the photo for enlarged view)

. 125th ANNIVERSARY OF THE METROPOLITAN-CONSECRATION OF SAINT GREGORIOS

Mor Gregorios Retreat Centre at the Mulunthuruthy MarThoman Church
(Click the below image for enlarged view)

100th Memorial Feast of ‘Saint Gregorios’

The Church commemorated the blessed memory of the Saintly Father with the offering of ‘Noottonninmmel Qurbono’ (Holy Mass by hundred and one priests) at the temporary chapel in the Puthencuriz Patriarchate Centre, Kochi
Click here for details

Brief History of Malankara Church as recorded in the MULUNTHURUTHY PADIYOLA (AD.1876)

For the Complete History of the Malankara Syrian Church, visit –> MalankaraChurch

History of the CATHOLICATE OF THE EAST and the chronological list of Catholicoses/Maphrynos

Biography of Late lamented Aboon Mor Baselios Paulose II
Catholicos of the East

‘Salmusa’ & ‘Sthathikon’

of Mor Gregorios Geevarghese

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[i]. ‘SALMUSA’ of Mor Gregorios Bawa

‘SALMUSA’ shown here, is the declaration, voluntarily submitted by Parumala Mor Gregorios Bawa, to his Supreme spiritual head the Patriarch of Antioch, before consecration as the Metropolitan of the Jacobite Syrian Orthodox Church.

1. “SALMUSA” of Parumala Mor Gregorious Bava {Malayalam}

2. English Translation of the “SALMUSA” from the Syriac Orthodox Resources Web Site:- http://sor.cua.edu/Personage/MGregoriusGChathuruthil/18761216shalmootho.html

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[ii]. ‘Sthathikon’ of Mor Gregorios Bawa

‘STHATHIKON’ reproduced here is the statement of empowerment in writing given to Parumala Mor Gregorios Bawa, after his ordination as a Metropolitan of the Jacobite Syrian Church by the Supreme spiritual head, the Patriarch of Antioch & all the East ‘Moran Mor Ignatius Peter IV’.

Link : – ‘Sthathikon’ of Mor Gregorios Geevarghese

MAVELIKARA PADIYOLA

(AD 1836)

{Source:- ‘Syrian Church History’ by Very Rev.(Dr.) Kurien Corepiscopa Kaniamparambil}

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Enclosed here is the reproduction of the resolution (Padiyola), unanimously accepted at the Mavelikara Synod held in 1836 at the Mavelikara Puthiyakavu St.Mary’s church.

MAVELIKARA PADIYOLA

In the name of Father, Son and Holy Ghost the one true God, Padiyola (agreement) drawn up in the year of our Lord 1836 corresponding 5th Makarom 1011 at the church dedicated to the Virgin Mother of Lord at Mavelikara, between Mar Dionyosious Metropolitan of the Jacobite Syrian Church of Malankarai subject to the supremacy of Mar Ignatius Patriarch, the Father of Fathers, and the Chief of Chiefs ruling the throne of St. Peter of Antioch, the mother of all Churches and his successor Mar Kurilos, and the vicars, priests and parishioners of Ankamali and other churches under the charge of the said Metropolitan.

That whereas an interview held at Kottayam between the Rt.Rev. Daniel, Lord Bishop of Calcutta and the Metropolitan, in Vrischikam last, it was proposed by the former that certain changes should be introduced in the Liturgies and ordinances of our Syrian Church and whereas it was stated in reply that a conference of all the churches would be held on the subject and its determination made known, we the Jacobite Syrians being subject to the supremacy of the Patriarch of Antioch and observing as we do the Liturgies and ordinance instituted by the prelates sent under his command, cannot deviate from such Liturgies and ordinances and maintain a discipline contrary thereto, and a man of one persuasion being not authorized to preach and admonish in the church of another following a different persuasion without the permission of the respective Patriarachs, we cannot permit the same to be done against us, and our churches being built by the aid of the pre-lates sent under the order of the Patriarch and on the wishes of the people of each parish and ornamented by their money, and as the accounts of the annual income according to our churches under the head of voluntary contributions offerings etc, are as required by the rules furnished to our bishops, as is the custom in the churches of Antioch as well as in the churches of this and other countries following different persuasions we are without the power, and feel disinclined, to follow and cause to be followed a different procedure from the above.

That the Honourable Colonel Macaulay having taken a loan of 3000 star pagodas from (Valia) great Mar Dionysius who died in 983, gave him a bond for the same. The interest on the amount having fallen in arrears, Mar Dionysius Metropolitan who died in 992 made a representation to Col. Munro and received the interest with which he (Dionysius) built the Seminary at Kottayam. Having also collected at the Seminary the money brought by the prelates that had come here from Antioch and the property left by the late Bishops of the Pakalomattom family, Mar Dionysius laid out a portion of this together with the donation made by HIS HIGHNESS THE MAHARAJA on behalf of the Syrian Christian Youths, on Kanom and therewith met the expense of their education. The Reverend the missionaries who have come down to Kottayam, in their profuse benevolence taught the youth at the Seminary, English and other languages, protected our children like loving fathers, caused books to be printed for the benefit of all classes, rendered all necessary help in maintaining the prevailing discipline of the Syrian Church caused the annual interest due, to be drawn on the receipt of the Metropolitan, had superintendence over the affairs of the Seminary and caused ordination to be made agreeable to the request of the people and the power of the prelates. While affairs were being thus conducted the Missionaries took to managing the Seminary without consulting the Metropolitan, themselves expended the interest money drawn annually on the receipt of the Metropolitan, dispersed the deacons instructed in the Seminary, conducted affairs in opposition to the discipline of the church and created dissensions amongst us, all of which have occasioned much sorrow and vexation. For this reason we do (would) not follow any faith or teaching other than the Orthodox faith of the Jacobite Syrian Christians, to the end, that we may obtain salvation through the prayers of ever happy, holy, and ever-blessed Mother of God, the redresser of all complaints and through the prayers of all Saints. Witness, Father, Son and Holy Ghost.

Amen

Catholicos of India
Aboon Mor Baselios Thomas I
[Presiding Hierarch of the Universal Syrian Orthodox Church in India]

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atholicos 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.

Photos from the Metropolitan Consecration ceremony of Mor Dionysius Thomas (Catholicos Baselios Thomas I) and Mor Gregorios Geevarghese Perumpillil

by His Holiness the Patriarch Mor Ignatius Yakub III of the Apostolic See of Antioch & all the East

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.

His Beatitude The Catholicos Aboon Mor Baselios Thomas I submitting the ‘SALMUSA’ to the supreme head of the

Holy Church, His Holiness Ignatius Zakka I Iwas, the Patriarch of Antioch & all the East

Metropolitans who were the co-celebrants during the Catholicos enthronement

H.G Julius Yeshu`Çiçek ( Central Europe)

H.G Philoxenos Matta Semavun

H.G.Theophelos George Saliba (Lebanon)

H.G Timotheos Samuel Aktas (Tur’abdin)

H.G. Philoxenos Yusuf Cetin (Istanbul)

H.G Osthatheos Matta Rohum (Jezirah & Euphrates)

H.G Gregorios Joseph (Kochi)

H.G. Dioscoros Benyamin Atas (Sweden)

H.G. Severios Malke Mourad (Jerusalem & Jordan)

H.G. Dionysius Isa Gurbuz (Germany)

H.G. Julius Kuriakose (1st Secretary to the Patriarch and the Patriarchal Vicar for Indian affairs)

H.G. Silwanos Petrus al-Ni’meh (Homs and Hama)

H.G. Ivanios Mathews (Kandanadu and USA)

H.G. Ivanios Paulos Al-Souky (Damascus)

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.

His Holiness Mor Ignatius Zakka I Iwas, the Patriarch of Antioch and all the East consecrating

His Beatitude the Catholicos Aboon Mor Baselios Thomas I

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.

Catholicate Office:

Patriarch Ignatius Zakka I Iwas Centre

(Patriarchal centre)

Puthencuriz – 682 308

Ernakulam, Kerala, INDIA.

Tel: 0484 – 2732804

Fax: 0484 – 2732804
Catholicate Residence:

Catholicate Aramana

Mount Sinai

College P.O., Kothamangalam – 686 691

Kerala, INDIA

Tel: 0485 – 2822485

Fax: 0485 – 2822101

Aboon Mor Baselios Thomas I – Important dates

Date of Birth

Ordained ‘Korooyo’ & ‘Shamshono’ by Catholicos Mor Baselios Paulose II

Ordained ‘Kassisso’ by Mor Yulius Elias (Patriarchal delegate)

Ordained Metropolitan by Patriarch Ignatius Yakoob III

Elected President of Holy Episcopal Synod of Malankara

Chosen as the Catholicos-designate

Malankara Church accepting the new constitution

Consecrated as CATHOLICOS
22nd July 1929

1957

21st September 1958

24th February 1974

23rd February 1999

27th December 2000

06th July 2002

26th July 2002

H.B. Catholicos Aboon Mor Baselios Thomas I Bava with the Metropolitans of the Syrian Church in India during

the consecration of five Metropolitans at the St. Thomas church, Paravur on 3 July 2006

Mor Gregorios Geevarghese

Patron Saint of Malankara

 

“Our Church was better for having him on earth. Our Church will be better for having him in heaven. He measured up splendidly to a sanctity beyond the ordinary”

Introduction
. A Brief biography of Mor Gregorios Bava
. The sacred tomb of Mor Gregorios Bava at Parumala
. The ‘SALMUSA’ & ‘STHATHIKON’ of Mor Gregorios
. The famous Portrait by Raja Ravi Varma

 

Biography of St. Gregorios

. Genealogy
. Child-hood
. As a Young Priest
. Ordination as Ramban (Monk Priest)
. Consecration as Metropolitan
. Establishment of Parumala Seminary; The Gospel Missions
. To the Holy Land
. Last few years
. His Grace’s Heavenly abode

 

‘Parumala Thirumeni’, a legend

. Contributions in the field of Education
. A lovable Holy Father
. Remembering ‘MOR GREGORIOS’ in the 5th “TUBDEN”
. Close aides
. Some of the Encyclicals & Personal Letters
. Famous Quotes

 

Sacred Tomb & the marble inscription in the tomb of Saint Gregorios at St. Peter’s church, Parumala

Holy Relics of the Saint Gregorios at the Malecuriz dayro & Perumpilly church
News on the beginning of Centenary Celebrations of the Memorial Feast of Mor Gregorios Bava

Inauguration of the centenary celebrations
Holy Qurbono celebrated by the Prelates of the Jacobite Syrian Church at the Home Parish of Saint Gregorios, the Mulunthuruthy MarThoman church, on Nov 3rd 2001
125th ANNIVERSARY OF THE METROPOLITAN-CONSECRATION OF SAINT GREGORIOS

Mor Gregorios Retreat Centre at the Mulunthuruthy MarThoman Church
100th Memorial Feast of ‘Saint Gregorios’

The Church commemorated the blessed memory of the Saintly Father with the offering of ‘Noottonninmmel Qurbono’ (Holy Mass by hundred and one priests) at the temporary chapel in the Puthencuriz Patriarchate Centre, Kochi
Brief History of Malankara Church as recorded in the MULUNTHURUTHY PADIYOLA (AD.1876)

For the Complete History of the Malankara Syrian Church, visit –> MalankaraChurch

History of the CATHOLICATE OF THE EAST and the chronological list of Catholicoses/Maphrynos