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| Born on | - | 10 Nov 1960 |
| Family Name | - | Srambickal Pallathitta, Mulanthuruthy |
| Education | - | Masters in Philosophy from the University of Wublil, Ireland |
| Theological Studies | - | Perumpally Mor Julios Seminary, USA |
| Deacon | - | 25 March 1974 (ordained by H.G. Gregorios Geevarghese - Perumpally Thirumeni) |
| Kassisso | - | 25 March 1984 (ordained by Catholicos H.B. Baselios Paulose II) |
| Ramban | - | 14 January 1994 (ordained by Patriarch H.H. Ignatius Zakka I) |
| Metropolitan | - | 16 January 1994 (ordained by Patriarch H.H. Ignatius Zakka I) |
| Metropolitan of Kochi Diocese | - | 23 January 1994 |
| Catholicos (Maphriyono) of India | - | 25 March 2025 (Enthroned as Catholicos by Patriarch H.H. Ignatius Aphrem II) |
Catholicos His Beatitude MOR BASELIOS JOSEPH, was born as the youngest of four children to Srambickal Pallathitta Geevarghese and Saramma on 10 Nov 1960 in Perumpally, Mulanthuruthy. He is the Great grand child of the brother of St. Gregorios Geevarghese Chathuruthil (Parumala Thirumeni). He pursued his primary education at Perumpally Primary School and Mulanthuruthy High School. At a young age of 13 he was ordained deacon by Mor Gregorios Geevarghese at Mor Ignatius Dayro, Manjanikkara on 25 March 1974. Subsequently Dn. Joseph served as the secretary to Mor Gregorios for a very long period.
Dn. Joseph completed his Pre-university and Degree courses from Maharajas College, Ernakulam and joined for his theological studies at Mor Julios Seminary, Perumpally. Later, Mor Baselios Paulose II, Catholicose of the East ordained Dn.Joseph Kassiso at Marthoman Church, Mulanthuruthy on 25 March 1984. Fr. Joseph joined the University of Wublil, Ireland for his Masters in Philosophy and left for USA for higher studies in Theology. While in USA, he served as the vicar of many churches. He served as the vicar of St.Thomas Syrian Orthodox Church, London for four years during his studies in England.
Due to old age, the then Metropolitan of Cochin Diocese Mor Osthatheos Thomas retired from his temporal duties of serving the diocese. Fr. Joseph was ordained Ramban by H.H Moran Mor Ignatius Zakka I Iwas, Patriarch of Antioch at Damascus on 14 January 1994. On 16 January 1994, Rev. Joseph Ramban was consecrated Metropolitan by the name Mor Gregorios Joseph by H.H Moran Mor Ignatius Zakka-I Iwas, Patriarch of Antioch at Damascus. Mor Gregorios Joseph assumed the office of the Metropolitan of Cochin Diocese on January 23, 1994 at Kyomtha Cathedral, Thiruvankulam and is continuing as the diocesan Metropolitan since then. During his tenure as Metropolitan he had initiated many projects including Orphanges, Schools etc and the famous Gregorian Public School at Ernakulam was one of the prestigious founded by him. In 2023, he was chosen as the Malankara Metropolitan and following the passing away of Catholicos Mor Baselios Thomas I, Mor Gregorios was unanimously elected to lead the Malankara Jacobite Syrian Orthodox Church as its Catholicos.
Elevation to the order of CATHOLICOS / MAPHRIYONO
On 25th March 2025, the day of the Feast of the Annunciation of Mother Mary, Mor Ignatius Aphrem II, the Patriarch of the Apostolic See of Antioch & All the East installed Mor Gregorios Joseph to the seat of the Catholicos/Maphrian of the East with the title MOR BASELIOS JOSPEH. He is the 81st Catholicos/Maphrian of the Universal Syrian Orthodox Church and the 4th Catholicos from the Church in Malankara.
The solemn function was held at St Mary's Patriarchal Cathedral in the premises of Patriarchal Center in Atchaneh, located about 20 km from Beirut, the capital of Lebanon. Almost all the Syrian Orthodox metropolitans from Malankara and Suryoyo were part of the installation ceremony besides the heads & representatives of other Churches in Malankara & other parts of the world. Congratulatory message of the Honourable Prime Minster of India Sri Narendra Modi was read at the ceremony by the former Central Minister Alphons Kannamthanam. The Minister of State Mr. Rajeev also addressed the gathering representing the State Goverment. Deelegate of the Lebanese President, the Ambasadors of India to Lebanion were also present during the solemn ceremony.
The heads of Oriental Orthodox Churches and other Churches world wide were also part of this historic installation ceremony. They included His Holiness Catholicos Aram I, the Armenian Orthodox Patriarch of the Great House of Cilicia; His Beatitude Cardinal Mar Bechara Boutros al-Rai, Maronite Patriarch of Antioch and All the East; His Beatitude Patriarch John X of the Greek Orthodox Church of Antioch and All the East; His Beatitude Patriarch Raphael Bedros XXI Minassian, Catholicos-Patriarch of Cilicia for Armenian Catholics; His Beatitude Patriarch Mor Ignatius Youssef III Younan, Syriac Catholic Patriarch of Antioch; His Holiness Patriarch Mar Awa III of the Assyrian Church of the East; His Holiness Pope Tawadros II of the Coptic Orthodox Church of Alexandria, represented by His Grace Bishop Antonius, Bishop of the Jerusalem, Kuwait, and Near East Diocese; His Holiness Catholicose Karekin II, Catholicose-Patriarch of All Armenians, represented by His Eminence Armash Nalbandian, Armenian Orthodox Archbishop of Damascus; and His Beatitude Patriarch Youssef Absi, Melkite Greek Catholic Patriarch of Antioch and All the East, represented by His Grace Bishop Georges Bacouni, Metropolitan of Beirut and Jbeil. Also in attendance was His Eminence Archbishop Paolo Borgia, Apostolic Nuncio to Lebanon.
The prominent representation from the sister Churches in Malankara included Cardinal Mor Baselios Cleemis Catholicos, the Major Archbishop of the Malankara Catholic Church and H.G. Joseph Mar Barnabas, the Suffragan Metropolitan of the Malankara MarThoma Syrian Church.
A report on the Enthronement ceremony:
On the evening of Tuesday, March 25, 2025, in a solemn and historic spiritual event, our Syriac Orthodox Church of Antioch celebrated the ordination of His Beatitude Mar Baselios Joseph as the new Maphriono (Catholicos) of India through the laying on of hands of His Holiness Patriarch Mor Ignatius Aphrem II. The consecration took place at the Church of St. Mary Mother of God, in Atchaneh, Bikfaya, Lebanon. His Holiness was assisted by Their Eminences Archbishops, members of the Holy General Synod of our Church.
During the ritual, His Holiness sat on his throne in front of the altar while the elected Maphriono, Mor Gregorius Joseph, was brought forward, surrounded by all the archbishops on both sides. Metropolitan Joseph read the "Shalmoutho," proclaiming the Orthodox faith and pledging to uphold, teach, and safeguard it along with all apostolic laws, as well as to preserve the dignity of the Maphrionoutho. At the conclusion, the elected Maphriono presented the "Shalmoutho" to the Patriarch. His Holiness then silently prayed the invocation of the Holy Spirit and placed his right hand on the head of Metropolitan Joseph, ordaining him as the Maphriono of the Holy and Blessed Church of Antioch in India under the name Mar Baselios Joseph, sealing him with the sign of the cross on his forehead in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
Afterward, the new Maphriono was seated on the throne facing the west and was lifted and carried three times as the congregation proclaimed, "Worthy (Axios), our Father Mor Baselios!" His Beatitude then read the text of the Good Shepherd from the Holy Gospel according to John. Following this, His Holiness raised the Maphriono from the throne and stood him before the altar, presenting him with the pastoral staff, along with all the archbishops who participated, each according to their turn. In conclusion, His Holiness and the archbishops offered the new Maphriono the kiss of peace before he blessed the congregation with the staff in his hand.
In his address (to be published separately), His Holiness spoke about the historic ties between the Syriac Church in India and the Holy Apostolic Throne of Antioch, which date back to the Apostle Thomas's mission in the early days of Christianity, as well as the migration of Syriac Christians to India in the 4th century. He emphasized the sacred role of the Maphriono in shepherding the faithful and preserving the unity of the Church, stating, "The rank of the Maphriono is one of the highest ecclesiastical ranks in our tradition, entrusted with safeguarding the faith and teaching divine truth," adding, "we assert clearly and without unequivocation that the attainment of this exalted rank can only occur through the Patriarchal Throne of Antioch, and by the laying on of hands of a legitimate Patriarch of the Church."
His Holiness urged the new Maphriono, His Beatitude Mor Baselios Joseph, to lead with humility and wisdom, to remain united with the Throne of Antioch, and to fulfill his pastoral duties with love and diligence. He praised the steadfast faith and unwavering loyalty of the faithful in India despite challenges, calling on them to work closely with their new shepherd to ensure the growth and vibrant witness of the Church. He concluded with prayers for the Maphriono's success, reaffirming the Church's mission to spread love and truth, saying, "May God grant us strength and wisdom to continue our noble mission in the Lord's vineyard."
His Beatitude, in his speech (to be published separately), acknowledged the guidance of His Holiness the Patriarch of Antioch, stating, "Your paternal love, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to our Holy Syriac Orthodox Church illuminates my path." He emphasized the historical bond between Antioch and Malankara, submitting himself to the Holy Throne of St. Peter. He also honored St. Thomas the Apostle and His Beatitude’s predecessors, including Mor Baselios Paulose II, who urged, "Do not forget the Holy Throne of Antioch. It is our Mother. It is our strength."
Furthermore, His Beatitude recognized the support of various religious and political figures, including the Prime Minister of India and the President of Lebanon, as well as leaders from sister churches globally. His Beatitude pledged to uphold the faith and serve his people, affirming, "I promise that I will uphold the trust that the Holy Throne and my people have entrusted upon me." He concluded by praying for peace and stability in the world, particularly in the Middle East, and expressing deep appreciation for his family and supporters.
Additionally, a letter of congratulations from His Excellency Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of India, was read (to be published separately). He commended His Beatitude for his steadfast commitment to the Church and society, highlighting his contributions to educational initiatives and support for the underprivileged. The letter emphasized the significance of his consecration as Catholicos in strengthening the Malankara Jacobite Syrian Orthodox Church and fostering harmony, peace, and spiritual growth. His Excellency extended his best wishes for His Beatitude’s ministry to leave a lasting impact on the community and the nation.
Attending the consecration were His Holiness Catholicos Aram I, the Armenian Orthodox Patriarch of the Great House of Cilicia; His Beatitude Cardinal Mar Bechara Boutros al-Rai, Maronite Patriarch of Antioch and All the East; His Beatitude Patriarch John X of the Greek Orthodox Church of Antioch and All the East; His Beatitude Cardinal Mar Baselios Cleemis, Catholicos of the Malankara Catholic Church; His Beatitude Patriarch Raphael Bedros XXI Minassian, Catholicos-Patriarch of Cilicia for Armenian Catholics; His Beatitude Patriarch Mor Ignatius Youssef III Younan, Syriac Catholic Patriarch of Antioch; His Grace Bishop Joseph Mar Barnabas of the Malankara Mar Thoma Syrian Church; His Holiness Patriarch Mar Awa III of the Assyrian Church of the East; His Holiness Pope Tawadros II of the Coptic Orthodox Church of Alexandria, represented by His Grace Bishop Antonius, Bishop of the Jerusalem, Kuwait, and Near East Diocese; His Holiness Catholicose Karekin II, Catholicose-Patriarch of All Armenians, represented by His Eminence Armash Nalbandian, Armenian Orthodox Archbishop of Damascus; and His Beatitude Patriarch Youssef Absi, Melkite Greek Catholic Patriarch of Antioch and All the East, represented by His Grace Bishop Georges Bacouni, Metropolitan of Beirut and Jbeil. Also in attendance was His Eminence Archbishop Paolo Borgia, Apostolic Nuncio to Lebanon.
His Excellency General Joseph Aoun, President of the Republic of Lebanon delegated His Excellency MP Ibrahim Kanaan.
An official delegation from India included Shri. V. Muraleedharan, Minister of State for External Affairs and Parliamentary Affairs of India; Shri. Alphons Kannanthanam, former Minister of State for Tourism of India; Members of the Indian Parliament Shri. Benny Behanan and Shri. Shaun George; Minister in the Kerala State Government Shri. Rajeeve; and Shri. P.M. Mohammed Hanish, Principal Secretary to the Government of Kerala, as well as Members of the Kerala Legislature Shri. Anup Jacob, Shri. E.T. Taison, Shri. Eldhose Kunnapilly, Shri. Job Maichil, and Shri. P.V. Sreenijin. The Indian Ambassador to Lebanon, H.E. Mohammed Noor Rahman Sheikh, led a delegation from the embassy.
Additionally, several bishops and representatives from sister churches, a host of priests from India and around the world, monks and nuns, and hundreds of faithful from the Syriac Church in India and Lebanon traveled from different parts of the globe to take part in this historic spiritual occasion.
Enthronement Video by Suboro TV
Speech of His Holiness Patriarch Mor Ignatius Aphrem II
Patriarch of Antioch and All the East, Supreme Head of the Universal Syriac Orthodox Church
on the occasion of the Enthronement Ceremony of His Beatitude Maphriono Mor Baselios Joseph
St. Mary Mother of God Church, Patriarchal Residence, Atchaneh, Lebanon, March 25, 2025
Introduction:
We praise our Almighty God for the richness of His gifts in His Holy Church and for the abundant blessings that continually overflow upon us. Today the Lord has gathered us on this solemn spiritual occasion to celebrate the consecration of our brother, (Metropolitan) Mor Gregorius Joseph, as the Maphriono (Catholicos) of the Syriac Church in India under the title: His Beatitude Mor Basilius Joseph. We first give thanks to the Lord God who guides His Church with wisdom and love, granting us faithful shepherds who carry the torch of faith from generation to generation.
Section One: Welcome
We wish to thank His Excellency Mr. Joseph Aoun, President of the Republic of Lebanon, for delegating His Excellency Mr. Deputy Ibrahem Kanaan, to join us in this blessed ceremony on his behalf. This gesture reflects His Excellency's deep commitment to spiritual values and his steadfast support for every noble initiative in our beloved country, Lebanon.
We also extend our sincere thanks to His Excellency the Prime Minister of the Republic of India, Mr. Narendra Modi, for his great interest in this occasion and for sending an official delegation to celebrate with us. We especially mention Mr. K.J. Alphons, the esteemed head of the delegation and former Minister of State for Electronics & Information Technology and Tourism, whose presence and honorable representation reflect the Republic of India's respect for all religious communities and sects. We also welcome all members of the official Indian delegation and thank them for taking the trouble to travel to share our joy with us today.
We likewise extend special greetings of thanks and appreciation to the Chief Minister of Kerala in India, His Excellency Mr. Pinarayi Vijayan, who honored us by sending an official delegation led by His Excellency Mr. Shri P Rajeeve, Minister for Law, for which we are grateful for their gracious participation that expresses the deep historical friendship between our peoples.
We extend our deepest greetings and gratitude to:
His Holiness Catholicos Aram I, the Armenian Orthodox Patriarch of the Great House of Cilicia;
His Holiness Pope Tawadros II of the Coptic Orthodox Church of Alexandria, represented by His Grace Bishop Antonius, Bishop of the Jerusalem, Kuwait, and Near East Diocese;
His Holiness Catholicose Karekin II, Catholicose-Patriarch of All Armenians, represented by His Eminence Armash Nalbandian, Armenian Orthodox Archbishop of Damascus;
His Beatitude Cardinal Mar Bechara Boutros al-Rai, Maronite Patriarch of Antioch and All the East;
His Beatitude Patriarch John X of the Greek Orthodox Church of Antioch and All the East;
His Beatitude Cardinal Mar Baselios Cleemis, Catholicos of the Malankara Catholic Church;
His Beatitude Patriarch Raphael Bedros XXI Minassian, Catholicos-Patriarch of Cilicia for Armenian Catholics;
His Beatitude Patriarch Mor Ignatius Youssef III Younan, Syriac Catholic Patriarch of Antioch;
His Grace Bishop Joseph Mar Barnabas of the Malankara Mar Thoma Syrian Church;
His Holiness Patriarch Mar Awa III of the Assyrian Church of the East;
His Beatitude Patriarch Youssef Absi, Melkite Greek Catholic Patriarch of Antioch and All the East, represented by His Grace Bishop Georges Bacouni, Metropolitan of Beirut and Jbeil.
His Eminence Archbishop Paolo Borgia, Apostolic Nuncio to Lebanon.
alongside their Eminences and Grace representatives of sister churches, who have graciously responded to our invitation and joined us in prayer and celebration on this historic day. Your blessed presence among us enhances the splendor of this occasion and reaffirms the spirit of love and unity among our churches. We also express our thanks to the distinguished representatives of the state and diplomatic bodies for their kind participation; your presence here is a testament to your respect for spiritual diversity and appreciation of our rich ecclesiastical heritage.
Section Two: The Syriac Church in India
Beloved brothers, the Syriac Church in India has been under the jurisdiction of the Holy Apostolic Throne of Antioch since the dawn of Christianity through bonds of faith and heritage. We proudly recall that the tradition of our Church teaches that Mor Thomas the Apostle carried the light of the Gospel to the land of India in the first century. Later on, in the year 345 of our Lord, a devout Syriac community migrated from the city of Urhoy (Edessa) to India, led by the venerable Syriac Thomas the Canaanite and blessed by the Patriarch of Antioch. They brought with them the torch of apostolic faith and the Antiochian Syriac tradition. This blessed migration had a profound impact in consolidating the Syriac Christian presence in Malankara (India) and in strengthening the bond of communion between the Syriac Church in India and the Holy Throne of Antioch, which has always regarded the Church in India as a jewel adorning the crown of the Syriac Patriarchate of Antioch throughout the ages.
Over the centuries, the Syriac Church in India has remained faithful both to the faith of the forefathers and to its loving communion with the Holy Throne of Antioch. Today we take pride in her as one of the pillars of our Universal Antiochian Syriac Orthodox Church. Her faithful, Catholicoi, and bishops, generation after generation, have preserved the deposit of faith with diligence and courage, giving a living testimony to Christ in the beloved land of India and becoming a blessing for the East and the whole world.
Section Three: The Rank of the Maphriono
The rank of the Maphriono, also known as the Catholicos, is among the most exalted ecclesiastical ranks in the tradition of our glorious Syriac Church. Historically, this rank emerged to serve the faithful in regions remote from the center of the Patriarchate of Antioch. The Maphriono served as a regional spiritual leader who shared in the pastoral burdens with the Patriarch and assisted him in managing the Church’s affairs. We assert clearly and without equivocation that the attainment of this exalted rank can occur only through the Patriarchal Throne of Antioch and by the laying on of hands of a legitimate Patriarch of the Church. This apostolic and canonic sequence guarantees the unity and cohesion of the Church and preserves the purity of the sacred Orthodox tradition from any deviation.
The Maphriono of India in our Syriac Church bears significant responsibilities. He is entrusted with the pastoral care of the dioceses in India—both spiritually and administratively. He is charged with safeguarding the orthodox faith and teaching divine truth, and with leading the local sacred assembly in India with a spirit of love and wisdom to serve and build up the Church. It is also his duty to promote the spiritual and administrative development of the clergy, to care for all the needs of the faithful, and to focus on spreading the sublime message of the Gospel in society—deeply rooted in the heritage of the Syriac forefathers while keeping pace with the challenges of modern times.
On this blessed occasion, with brotherly love, we tender some recommendations to our brother, the new Maphriono, Mor Basilius Joseph. We call upon him to set an example in humility, love, and service, acting in the spirit of the good shepherd who devotes himself to his flock. We expect him to remain tightly united with the Patriarchal Throne of Antioch, upholding the spirit of communion and obedience which he pledged on the day of his election to this service, and reaffirms that pledge today before all. We urge him to care for all his children without discrimination, to remain close to the clergy and the faithful—listening to their hopes and sorrows—and to work to strengthen unity and peace in the Lord among all members of the Church in India. Let him always remember that authority in the Church is a ministry of service and self-sacrifice; therefore, he should lead with gentleness and wisdom, relying on the grace of the Holy Spirit in every matter.
It gives us great joy to offer our sincere heartfelt congratulations to our brother, the new Maphriono Mor Basilius Joseph, on his official consecration as Maphriono of the Syriac Church in India. We are confident that His Beatitude, known for his wisdom, experience, and spirituality—will be a worthy successor to his venerable predecessors, following in the footsteps of the thrice Blessed Mor Basilius Thomas I who served the Church with dedication, and working with us in the Lord’s vineyard for the guidance and salvation of souls. We ask God to grant the new Maphriono (Catholicos) health, strength, and wisdom to lead his people in India to the pastures of salvation and to raise the Church to even greater spiritual prosperity.
Section Four: The People of the Church in India
To you, the beloved spiritual children of our Syriac Church in India, we say: You hold a very special place in the heart of the Patriarchate of Antioch. We love you with the love of Christ and take pride in your Orthodox faith and steadfast loyalty to the Holy Throne of Antioch throughout history. You, the blessed people in India—both clergy and faithful—have demonstrated unwavering faithfulness to your mother Church despite all the challenges that have confronted you. You have faced numerous persecutions and trials, yet you have remained steadfast in your faith, clinging to your venerable Syriac tradition, and thereby have truly earned the crown of victory and blessing.
Accordingly, we urge their Eminences the archbishops, the honorable clergy, and all the faithful in the Syriac Church in India to unite around their new Maphriono with a spirit of love and cooperation. May they work with him hand in hand as one body in Christ, so that the Church might grow and flourish, and the Gospel’s witness remain strong in that beloved land. The unity of hearts and the joint efforts between shepherd and flock are the keys to accomplishing the Lord’s purposes for His Church. We encourage them to unite their efforts with the entire Indian society, known of its culture, tolerance and harmony, to contribute to the advancement of the great country of India with its wise leadership.
Conclusion
In conclusion, we thank the Lord God for His abundant blessings that He has showered and continues to shower upon His Church. We thank Him for enabling us to witness this historic day on the journey of our Church. We humbly beseech Him to accompany the new Maphriono in his ministry and to bless the Church in India and everywhere. We ask Him to grant us all wisdom from above and renewed strength to continue our noble mission of spreading love and truth. May the name of the Lord be forever blessed, and to Him be all glory forever. Amen.
Speech of His Beaitide Mor Baselios Joseph, Catholicos of India during the Enthronement to the office of Maphrinate
Atchaneh, Lebanon, 2025
+ In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit: One True God, Amen.
On this sacred feast of Annunciation, as we journey through the solemnity of the Great Lent, I stand before you, deeply humbled and profoundly moved with gratitude by the boundless grace of our Lord God Almighty. Today marks another phase in the divine calling of my life, not to be exalted, but to shepherd, bearing the Cross of Christ with love and humility.
With a grateful heart, I offer my filial obedience and profound gratitude to His Holiness Moran Mor Ignatius Aphrem II, the Prince Patriarch of Antioch and all the East, whose apostolic hands have consecrated me for this great responsibility as the Canonical Catholicos of Malankara. Your Holiness, Your paternal love, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to our Holy Syriac Orthodox Church illuminates my path.
Despite the scarcity of time, I am prompted to mention that I was blessed with an opportunity to have a special relationship with Our Holiness when we were together during our higher studies in Ireland. My association with His Holiness contributed to my formation and the strengthening of my faith. Also, I am encouraged by the fearless steps that His Holiness has taken to ensure being one in Spirit with suffering people whether it be natural calamities or human-made disasters of war and terrorism. His Holiness's various initiatives to reinstate peace, stability, and tranquility in troubled regions are all expressions of His Holiness' commitment to the call of our Lord Jesus Christ to love one another. As we live in a world of different faiths, His Holiness has shown us the maxim of humanization by His Holiness’ example of the true way of evangelization and Christianization in this world.
I seek Your Holiness’ continued prayers with guidance and support as I embark on this sacred journey.
The throne of St. Peter and the historic relationship between Antioch and Malankara are a foundational framework upon which this elevation can be witnessed. The Malankara Jacobite Syrian Orthodox Church’s legacy, its’ existence, faith, liturgy, priesthood, and traditions all come from Antioch and the Holy Throne of St. Peter. I submit myself to the Holy Throne of St. Peter and to the 123rd Patriarch, His Holiness Moran Mor Ignatius Aphrem II, who is now seated on this Holy Throne. St. Peter, the Chief of the Apostles of Jesus Christ our Lord, is the rock upon which Jesus said he will build His Church. The Malankara Jacobite Syrian Church is honored to be under the Throne of St. Peter and I am humbled to be installed as the Canonical Catholicos by Your Holiness and I offer my humble-self in submission to the Holy Throne of Antioch.
The holy and venerable St. Thomas the Apostle, carried the radiant light of the Gospel of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ to the sacred land of India. Though he bore the crown of martyrdom, his divine legacy endures, woven into the very fabric of our faith, as we proudly remain known as St. Thomas Christians to this day. With hearts uplifted, we humbly seek the blessings and intercessions of the Apostle of India, St. Thomas, as we embark upon this new and blessed journey.
Your Holiness’ unwavering support to the Church in Malankara, deserves a strong mention. After assuming the office as the Patriarch, Your Holiness stood by the Church, its’ prelates, clergy, and faithful in Malankara. Even when we were losing our churches, when burials were denied, dead bodies were kept for weeks, Your Holiness expressed in unequivocal words, concerns, prayers, and supported all of us. At no point of time, we were weakened as a Church as we had unwavering faith in God and on Your Holiness.
I bow my head in fond memory of my paternal forefather, St. Gregorios popularly known as Parumala Thirumeni whose holy life and loyalty to the Holy Throne of Antioch influenced my life and remains a beacon of faith and righteousness. I am also seeking the prayers of St. Ignatius Elias III, St. Baselios Yeldho, St. Gregorios Abdul Jaleel, St. Baselios Shakralla, St. Coorilos Yuyakim, St. Osthatheos Sleeba, St. Coorilos Paulose, and St. Athanasius Paulose Valiya Thirumeni. I take refuge in their intercessory prayers seeking their divine blessings and guidance as I walk this new path set before me.
As for myself, I cannot forget Late Lamented Ignatius Zakka I Iwas, who consecrated me as a Metropolitan on January 16 1994, and I was humbled to serve His Holiness in many capacities for 20 years. In the hearts and minds of our faithful, Holy Father is still alive as a Saint interceding for my humble self and for our Holy Church.
I pay tribute to the God fearing illustrious Catholicos Baselios Paulose II, of blessed memory, who ordained me as a Celibate Priest on this special day March 25th, 1984. His Beatitude’s final words in our managing committee during the last days of his life still echoes in my ears. [Quote] “Our beloved children, Do not forget the Holy Throne of Antioch. It is our Mother. It is our strength. The Holy Throne of St. Peter, instituted by our Lord, is the source of the unblemished Holy Priesthood - and it is the foundation of the True Faith. Uphold and preserve your bond with the Holy See as the pupil of your eye and sustain perpetual obedience to it. You should hand this over to your future generations too”. [Unquote] I strongly believe that His Beautitude’s soul will be rejoicing with the Saints and praying for my humble self and for the Holy Church.
I was fortunate and blessed to serve with Late Lamented His Beatitude Baselios Thomas I for over 30 years as a Metropolitan in many capacities. His Beatitude was popularly known as the Ya’qub Burd’ono of Malankara as he suffered immensely to uphold and preserve the true faith of our Holy Church in the midst of adversities. His Beatitude always promoted me and trained me in such a way that I could assume this highest office of our Holy Church and be his successor. His Beatitude’s dream and will has been materialized today. I believe that he is praying for me and witnessing this ceremony with the Saints.
From my childhood, I was touched by Late Lamented Geevarghese Mor Gregorios, popularly known as Perumpally Thirumeni. His Eminence chose me at the age of 13 to the service of our Lord and blessed me with his heart and soul. I believe that he is praying for me and witnessing this ceremony with the Saints.
Our Church is grateful to the Government of India led by the Honorable Prime Minister Shri. Narendra Modiji, a renowned world leader, who graced this historical event by sending a message congratulating my humble self and thereby strengthening our Church. Thank you Honorable Prime Minister. My deep gratitude to the Kerala Government led by honorable Chief Minister Shri. Pinarayi Vijayan. We cannot forget his determination and tireless efforts to establish lasting peace and ensure justice for our Church and preserve our identity. On behalf of Our Church, let me express our heartfelt thanks to the Honorable Chief Minister.
At this juncture, let me acknowledge the presence of the official delegates of both Central and State Governments: Former Central Ministers Shri. V. Muraleedharan, Shri. Alphonse Kannanthanam, Shri. Benny Behanan MP, Shri. Shone George, and the State Government Delegation led by Shri. P. Rajeev, Minister of Industries and Law, Shri. Anoop Jacob MLA, Shri. PV Sreenijan MLA, Shri. ET Taison MLA, Shri. Eldhose Kunnapilly MLA, Shri. Job Michael MLA, and Principal Secretary of the Kerala Government Shri. PM Muhammed Hanish IAS.
Also I would like to thank the Ambassadors present here especially the Ambassador of India in Lebanon His Excellency Noor Rahman Sheikh.
The Jacobite Church has, is, and will always stand for justice, peace, and the building up of our nation. We will do everything in our capacity as responsible human beings and Indian Citizens in adherence to the constitution of India. As a citizen of India, I am affirming my commitment to work and preserve the great heritage of our nation, its unique tolerance, plurality, and secularism. Jai Hind! I had the privilege to meet the President of Lebanon His Excellency Joseph Aoun a few days ago with His Holiness. We pray for the Lebanese government for peace and stability to prevail in this beautiful country. Once again, I thank all the help extended by the Lebanese Government for this solemn ceremony.
His Holiness has ensured a wide participation in this historic event that shows the stature and relationship of our Church in the Ecumenical and Ecclesial world. As such, Several Church leaders from sister Churches from all over the world have come here today. My deep gratitude to
-𝑯𝒊𝒔 𝑯𝒐𝒍𝒊𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒔 𝑪𝒂𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒍𝒊𝒄𝒐𝒔 𝑨𝒓𝒂𝒎 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑭𝒊𝒓𝒔𝒕, 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑨𝒓𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒊𝒂𝒏 𝑶𝒓𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒅𝒐𝒙 𝑷𝒂𝒕𝒓𝒊𝒂𝒓𝒄𝒉 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑮𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒕 𝑯𝒐𝒖𝒔𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝑪𝒊𝒍𝒊𝒄𝒊𝒂;
-𝑯𝒊𝒔 𝑬𝒎𝒊𝒏𝒆𝒏𝒄𝒆 𝑴𝒆𝒕𝒓𝒐𝒑𝒐𝒍𝒊𝒕𝒂𝒏 𝑨𝒏𝒕𝒐𝒏𝒊𝒖𝒔 𝒐𝒇 𝑱𝒆𝒓𝒖𝒔𝒂𝒍𝒆𝒎 𝒓𝒆𝒑𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑯𝒊𝒔 𝑯𝒐𝒍𝒊𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒔 𝑷𝒐𝒑𝒆 𝑻𝒂𝒘𝒂𝒅𝒓𝒐𝒔 𝑰𝑰 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑪𝒐𝒑𝒕𝒊𝒄 𝑶𝒓𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒅𝒐𝒙 𝑪𝒉𝒖𝒓𝒄𝒉 𝒐𝒇 𝑨𝒍𝒆𝒙𝒂𝒏𝒅𝒓𝒊𝒂.
-𝑯𝒊𝒔 𝑬𝒎𝒊𝒏𝒆𝒏𝒄𝒆 𝑩𝒊𝒔𝒉𝒐𝒑 𝑨𝒓𝒎𝒂𝒔𝒉 𝑵𝒂𝒍𝒃𝒂𝒏𝒅𝒊𝒂𝒏 𝒐𝒇 𝑫𝒂𝒎𝒂𝒔𝒄𝒖𝒔 𝒓𝒆𝒑𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑯𝒊𝒔 𝑯𝒐𝒍𝒊𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒔 𝑲𝒂𝒓𝒆𝒌𝒊𝒏 𝑰𝑰 𝒐𝒇 𝑬𝒕𝒄𝒉𝒎𝒊𝒂𝒅𝒛𝒊𝒏, 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑺𝒖𝒑𝒓𝒆𝒎𝒆 𝑷𝒂𝒕𝒓𝒊𝒂𝒓𝒄𝒉 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑪𝒂𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒍𝒊𝒄𝒐𝒔 𝒐𝒇 𝑨𝒍𝒍 𝑨𝒓𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒊𝒂𝒏𝒔
-𝑯𝒊𝒔 𝑩𝒆𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒕𝒖𝒅𝒆 𝑷𝒂𝒕𝒓𝒊𝒂𝒓𝒄𝒉 𝑱𝒐𝒉𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆 10𝒕𝒉 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑮𝒓𝒆𝒆𝒌 𝑶𝒓𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒅𝒐𝒙 𝑪𝒉𝒖𝒓𝒄𝒉 𝒐𝒇 𝑨𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒄𝒉 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑨𝒍𝒍 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑬𝒂𝒔𝒕;
-𝑯𝒊𝒔 𝑯𝒐𝒍𝒊𝒏𝒆𝒔𝒔 𝑪𝒂𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒍𝒊𝒄𝒐𝒔-𝑷𝒂𝒕𝒓𝒊𝒂𝒓𝒄𝒉 𝑴𝒂𝒓 𝑨𝒘𝒂 𝑰𝑰𝑰 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑨𝒔𝒔𝒚𝒓𝒊𝒂𝒏 𝑪𝒉𝒖𝒓𝒄𝒉 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑬𝒂𝒔𝒕;
-𝑯𝒊𝒔 𝑩𝒆𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒕𝒖𝒅𝒆 𝑪𝒂𝒓𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒂𝒍 𝑴𝒂𝒓 𝑩𝒆𝒄𝒉𝒂𝒓𝒂 𝑩𝒐𝒖𝒕𝒓𝒐𝒔 𝒂𝒍-𝑹𝒂𝒊, 𝑴𝒂𝒓𝒐𝒏𝒊𝒕𝒆 𝑷𝒂𝒕𝒓𝒊𝒂𝒓𝒄𝒉 𝒐𝒇 𝑨𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒄𝒉 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑨𝒍𝒍 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑬𝒂𝒔𝒕;
-𝑯𝒊𝒔 𝑩𝒆𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒕𝒖𝒅𝒆 𝑪𝒂𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒍𝒊𝒄𝒐𝒔-𝑷𝒂𝒕𝒓𝒊𝒂𝒓𝒄𝒉 𝑹𝒂𝒑𝒉𝒂𝒆𝒍 𝑩𝒆𝒅𝒓𝒐𝒔 21𝒔𝒕 𝑴𝒊𝒏𝒂𝒔𝒔𝒊𝒂𝒏 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑨𝒓𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒊𝒂 𝑪𝒂𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒍𝒊𝒄 𝑪𝒉𝒖𝒓𝒄𝒉 𝒐𝒇 𝑪𝒊𝒍𝒊𝒄𝒊𝒂.
-𝑯𝒊𝒔 𝑩𝒆𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒕𝒖𝒅𝒆 𝑷𝒂𝒕𝒓𝒊𝒂𝒓𝒄𝒉 𝑴𝒐𝒓 𝑰𝒈𝒏𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒖𝒔 𝒀𝒐𝒖𝒔𝒔𝒆𝒇 𝑰𝑰𝑰 𝒀𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒂𝒏 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑺𝒚𝒓𝒊𝒂𝒄 𝑪𝒂𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒍𝒊𝒄 𝑪𝒉𝒖𝒓𝒄𝒉 𝒐𝒇 𝑨𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒄𝒉;
-𝑯𝒊𝒔 𝑬𝒎𝒊𝒏𝒆𝒏𝒄𝒆 𝑨𝒓𝒄𝒉𝒃𝒊𝒔𝒉𝒐𝒑 𝑷𝒂𝒐𝒍𝒐 𝑩𝒐𝒓𝒈𝒊𝒂, 𝑨𝒑𝒐𝒔𝒕𝒐𝒍𝒊𝒄 𝑵𝒖𝒏𝒄𝒊𝒐 𝒕𝒐 𝑳𝒆𝒃𝒂𝒏𝒐𝒏.
-𝑯𝒊𝒔 𝑬𝒎𝒊𝒏𝒆𝒏𝒄𝒆 𝑨𝒓𝒄𝒉𝒃𝒊𝒔𝒉𝒐𝒑 𝑩𝒊𝒔𝒉𝒐𝒑 𝑮𝒆𝒐𝒓𝒈𝒆𝒔 𝑩𝒂𝒄𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒊 𝒐𝒇 𝑩𝒆𝒊𝒓𝒖𝒕 𝒓𝒆𝒑𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑯𝒊𝒔 𝑩𝒆𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒕𝒖𝒅𝒆 𝑷𝒂𝒕𝒓𝒊𝒂𝒓𝒄𝒉 𝒀𝒐𝒖𝒔𝒔𝒆𝒇 𝑨𝒃𝒔𝒊 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑴𝒆𝒍𝒌𝒊𝒕𝒆 𝑮𝒓𝒆𝒆𝒌 𝑪𝒂𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒍𝒊𝒄 𝑪𝒉𝒖𝒓𝒄𝒉 𝒐𝒇 𝑨𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒄𝒉 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑨𝒍𝒍 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑬𝒂𝒔𝒕.
-𝑨𝒏𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑫𝒆𝒍𝒆𝒈𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝒓𝒆𝒑𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑯𝒊𝒔 𝑩𝒆𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒕𝒖𝒅𝒆 𝑪𝒂𝒓𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒂𝒍 𝑳𝒐𝒖𝒊𝒔 𝑹𝒂𝒑𝒉𝒂𝒆𝒍 𝑺𝒂𝒌𝒐, 𝑷𝒂𝒕𝒓𝒊𝒂𝒓𝒄𝒉 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑪𝒉𝒂𝒍𝒅𝒆𝒂𝒏 𝑪𝒂𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒍𝒊𝒄 𝑪𝒉𝒖𝒓𝒄𝒉
It is a blessing that you all graced us with your presence today.
Our Sister Churches near and dear to us in India stood with us in our most difficult times. Our Malankara Jacobite Syrian Orthodox Church and I will never forget this and I promise that our Church will stand with those who stood with us. Particularly let me acknowledge the presence of 𝑯𝒊𝒔 𝑩𝒆𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒕𝒖𝒅𝒆 𝑩𝒂𝒔𝒆𝒍𝒊𝒐𝒔 𝑪𝒂𝒓𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒂𝒍 𝑪𝒍𝒆𝒆𝒎𝒊𝒔, 𝑪𝒂𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒍𝒊𝒄𝒐𝒔 𝒐𝒇 𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑺𝒚𝒓𝒐-𝑴𝒂𝒍𝒂𝒏𝒌𝒂𝒓𝒂 𝑪𝒂𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒍𝒊𝒄 𝑪𝒉𝒖𝒓𝒄𝒉 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑷𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒊𝒅𝒆𝒏𝒕 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑲𝒆𝒓𝒂𝒍𝒂 𝑪𝒂𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒍𝒊𝒄 𝑩𝒊𝒔𝒉𝒐𝒑𝒔 𝑪𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒄𝒊𝒍 (𝑲𝑪𝑩𝑪) 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑹𝒕. 𝑹𝒆𝒗. 𝑫𝒓. 𝑱𝒐𝒔𝒆𝒑𝒉 𝑴𝒂𝒓 𝑩𝒂𝒓𝒏𝒂𝒃𝒂𝒔 𝑺𝒖𝒇𝒇𝒓𝒂𝒈𝒂𝒏 𝑴𝒆𝒕𝒓𝒐𝒑𝒐𝒍𝒊𝒕𝒂𝒏 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑴𝒂𝒍𝒂𝒏𝒌𝒂𝒓𝒂 𝑴𝒂𝒓𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒎𝒂 𝑺𝒚𝒓𝒊𝒂𝒏 𝑪𝒉𝒖𝒓𝒄𝒉 𝒐𝒇 𝑴𝒂𝒍𝒂𝒃𝒂𝒓. A special word of gratitude to the both of them who traveled all the way from Kerala to participate and bless this occasion. Thank you, Your Beatitude and Your Eminence.
We also appreciate the presence of the representatives and leaders of Ecumenical bodies. The same has to be said about other faiths too. Members and organizations from the Hindu, Muslim, and other minority Communities have stood with us for justice to prevail in our Churches.
Today, we live in a world of wars and turmoils where the survival of humanity is deeply endangered. Let us all pray and work for peace in the world. As we are in the Middle East now, we cannot forget the pain, struggles, and suffering of the people of the Middle East going through at the moment. May God bring everlasting peace and stability to these blessed countries.
I am deeply thankful to my dear brother Metropolitans of our Syriac Orthodox Church who traveled across the globe to grace this occasion. Thanks also to Mor Justinus Boulos Safar the Synod Secretary of the Universal Syriac Orthodox Church and Mor Timotheos Thomas Secretory of our Regional Episcopal Synod. I also take this opportunity to remember our Senior-Most Metropolitans Mor Gregorius Saliba Shamoun, Mor Severius Hawa, and Mor Severios Abraham who were not able to be here today due to their physical ailments. Thanks to Their Eminences Archbishops Mor Clemis Daniel Archbishop of Beirut, Mor Coorilos Babi, Patriarchal Assistant Mor Joseph Bali, Patriarchal Secretary Mor Augeen Alkass, Malankara Affairs Secretary Mor Christophoros Markose, and all the Dayroye, Mshamshone, Nuns, Staff of the Patriarchate.
I am grateful to our Church Office Bearers: Rev. Fr. Roy George Kattachira; Priest Trustee, Com. Thampu George Thukalan; Lay Trustee, and Jacob C. Mathew; Lay Secretary, Working Committee Members, Managing Committee Members, also Spiritual Organizations, Staff of the Patriarchal Centre in Puthencruz, Church Official Media, and all Social Media Platforms for their constant support.
Let me take this opportunity to thank all our Very Rev. Corepiscopas, Rev. Priests, Rambachens, Deacons, Nuns, and faithful of our Church around the globe. From the depths of my heart, I thank all the clergy, faithful, dignitaries, and friends from around the world who have travelled all the way to Lebanon to attend this historic event and to pray for me.They have held onto the faith, raised the slogan “Long Live the Antiochian-Malankara Bond”, suffered, been beaten, insulted, threatened, arrested, and evicted. However, they have never given up, run away, and let down the throne of St. Peter. Their blood and breath are filled with their allegiance and unflinching loyalty to the Holy Throne of Antioch.
Honourable Prime Minister of India Sri Narendra Modiji's message to the newly installed Catholicos
being read out by the former Central Government Minister Mr Alphons Kannamthanam
Metropolitan Consecration ceremony of H. G. Mor Gregorios Joseph on 16 January 1994
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News about Enthronement ceremony
History of the Catholicate / Maphrianate explained in Malayalam
Youtube links prior to Catholicos Enthronement ceremony:
24 NEWS:
Mathrubhumi:
Asianet News:
Sheikna News:
Malayala Manorma:
@ MSCR - Malankara Syriac Christian Resources
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