Bishop Dr. Yoohanon Mor Theodosius Assumes Charge as Coadjutor Bishop of Muvattupuzha Diocese

Muvattupuzha, April 12, 2018 – The Syro-Malankara Catholic Diocese of Muvattupuzha entered a new chapter as Bishop Dr. Yoohanon Mor Theodosius formally assumed charge as the Coadjutor Bishop. The installation took place during the feast day celebrations of Bishop Dr. Abraham Mor Julios, the Eparchial Bishop of Muvattupuzha, at St. Mary’s Cathedral, Muvattupuzha. The ceremony was presided over by His Eminent Beatitude Cardinal Moran Mor Baselios Cleemis Catholicos, the Major Archbishop-Catholicos of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church.

The event commenced with a solemn liturgical service at the Cathedral’s holy altar, led by Cardinal Cleemis. In his inaugural address, Cardinal Cleemis highlighted the significance of this moment in the history of the Diocese. He praised the invaluable contributions of Bishop Dr. Yoohanon Mor Theodosius to the Church and expressed hope that his leadership would bring continued blessings to the Diocese and the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church at large.

A New Era for Muvattupuzha Diocese

In his address, Cardinal Cleemis remarked, “The Diocese of Muvattupuzha is embarking on a pivotal phase in its history, and Bishop Dr. Yoohanon Mor Theodosius’s dedicated and visionary service will guide us forward. We pray that he continues to inspire and nurture the faithful, just as he has done through his extensive ministry.”

Bishop Dr. Abraham Mor Julios, presiding over the event, expressed gratitude and shared his joy at welcoming Bishop Mor Theodosius as his Coadjutor. He called for prayers and support from the clergy and laity, emphasising that the Coadjutor Bishop’s contributions would be instrumental in enriching the spiritual and pastoral life of the Diocese.

Notable Attendees and Messages of Support

The event was graced by several prominent figures from the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church:

• Archbishop Dr. Thomas Mor Koorilos of the Archdiocese of Tiruvalla praised Bishop Mor Theodosius’s commitment to his faith and ministry, commending his role in shaping the future of the Church.
• Bishop Dr. Samuel Mor Irenios, Auxiliary Bishop of Pathanamthitta, extended his best wishes and expressed confidence in Bishop Mor Theodosius’s ability to strengthen the pastoral mission.

In his response, Bishop Dr. Yoohanon Mor Theodosius expressed deep gratitude for the trust placed in him by the Church. He pledged to uphold the values and traditions of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church while fostering unity and growth within the Diocese.

Additional Highlights

Several other leaders and representatives also addressed the gathering, including:

• Monsignor Varghese Kunnumpuram
• Fr. George Kayyanickal
• V.C. Georgekutty, Secretary of the Pastoral Council
• Bechu Kurian Thomas, MCYM Diocesan President

Their messages echoed prayers and well-wishes for Bishop Mor Theodosius as he assumes his responsibilities in service to the Church and the faithful of Muvattupuzha.

Reflection on Bishop Mor Theodosius’s Journey

The appointment of Bishop Dr. Yoohanon Mor Theodosius as Coadjutor Bishop marks another milestone in his distinguished ecclesiastical journey. Known for his theological acumen, pastoral care, and deep spirituality, Bishop Mor Theodosius is expected to bring renewed vigour to the Diocese of Muvattupuzha. As the Diocese embraces this new era, the faithful look forward to his leadership and the collective spiritual growth of their community.