Catholicos Day 2025: Twenty Years of Self-Governance in Communion With Rome

Thiruvananthapuram, 2 February 2025 – The Syro-Malankara Catholic Church observed Catholicos Day with fervent devotion across all its parishes, eparchies, and the Catholicate. This day commemorates the Church’s recognition as a Major Archiepiscopal Church and its self-governance under the leadership of the Major Archbishop-Catholicos, a milestone that signifies its unique position within the Catholic communion.

A Shared Celebration Across the Church

From the Catholicate to the smallest parish, the celebrations united the faithful in thanksgiving, prayer, and liturgical solemnity. Special services, including the Holy Qurbono, were held in every eparchy, drawing large congregations who reaffirmed their faith and commitment to the Church’s mission.

At the heart of the celebration was the recognition of the Church’s growth, not as a singular achievement of any one leader, but as the fruit of collective effort and God’s providence. The leadership of His Eminent Beatitude Cardinal Moran Mor Baselios Cleemis Catholicos, Major Archbishop-Catholicos, was highlighted as a continuation of the foundational efforts of his predecessors, particularly Venerable Archbishop Mar Ivanios, whose vision for unity and communion with Rome laid the groundwork for the Church’s current standing.

A Journey of Communion and Recognition

The roots of Catholicos Day trace back to the historic Reunion Movement of 1930, initiated by Servant of God Archbishop Mar Ivanios, which brought the Syro-Malankara Church into full communion with the Holy See. This movement was a courageous step towards unity, embracing the universal Church while preserving the liturgical and spiritual heritage of the West Syriac Rite.

The culmination of this journey came in 2005 when the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church was elevated to a Major Archiepiscopal Church by the Vatican. This recognition marked a significant chapter in its history, affirming its spiritual maturity, administrative independence, and deep-rooted traditions. The title of Major Archbishop-Catholicos was established, combining the Church’s ancient heritage with its modern communion with Rome.

Significance for the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church

Catholicos Day underscores the harmonious balance between autonomy and unity within the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church. The role of the Major Archbishop-Catholicos symbolises a leadership that respects the Church’s traditions while fostering a close relationship with the Vatican. This dynamic relationship ensures that the Church’s voice is heard within the universal Catholic communion, while also safeguarding the spiritual needs of its faithful.

For the Syro-Malankara Catholic faithful, this day is more than a historical commemoration—it is an occasion to reflect on their identity as members of a Church that bridges the East and the West. It also celebrates the strength of the Church’s relationship with its people, who continue to uphold its mission through active participation in parish life, missionary efforts, and community service.

Looking Ahead

Catholicos Day is evidence to the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church’s unwavering commitment to unity, faith, and self-governance. As the Church grows, its faithful are reminded of their shared responsibility to preserve its rich heritage while embracing the challenges of modernity. Under the leadership of His Eminent Beatitude Cardinal Moran Mor Baselios Cleemis Catholicos, the Church continues to build on the vision of its founders, fostering a spirit of communion that inspires generations to come.

This year’s celebrations serve as a reminder of the Church’s profound history, its steadfast relationship with the Vatican, and its enduring mission to witness Christ’s love in a changing world. As parishes and eparchies come together in prayer and gratitude, the legacy of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church shines brightly, illuminating the path forward for its faithful.