Trivandrum — On Wednesday, 25 June 2025, the faithful of the Major Archieparchy of Trivandrum gathered in solemn reverence to bid a heartfelt farewell to His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Mathews Mor Polycarpos, Auxiliary Bishop of the Major Archieparchy of Trivandrum and Bishop-designate of the Mavelikara Eparchy. This gathering marked a profound moment of gratitude and prayer as he prepared to assume his new pastoral responsibility, with his enthronement scheduled for 29 June 2025.
The send-off ceremony was held at the Girideepam Convention Centre, Mar Ivanios Vidyanagar, beginning at 10:30 a.m. with uplifting prayer songs that created an atmosphere of sacred reflection. The event was graced by a distinguished assembly of Church leaders, political dignitaries, clergy, religious, and representatives from various communities, all united to honour the bishop’s decades of devoted service and leadership.
Very Rev. Dr. Varkey Attupurathu Corepiscopa, Vicar General of the Major Archieparchy, extended a warm welcome, opening the programme with words that highlighted the spiritual significance of the occasion. The principal address was delivered by His Eminent Beatitude Moran Mor Baselios Cardinal Cleemis Catholicos, Major Archbishop-Catholicos of Trivandrum, who eloquently acknowledged Mor Polycarpos’s invaluable contributions to the spiritual growth and educational mission of the Major Archieparchy.
The programme further received special honour with the presence of Honourable Veena George, Minister for Health, who emphasised the bishop’s social impact and underscored the Church’s vital role in the welfare of society. Minister George lauded Mor Polycarpos’s compassionate leadership and his commitment to public service and community upliftment.
A touching highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of a token of appreciation, symbolising the love and respect of the entire Major Archieparchy community.
Felicitation speeches followed, each reflecting deep affection and respect for Mor Polycarpos. Very Rev. Fr. John Vilayil spoke on behalf of the clergy, while Mr. K. Jayakumar IAS represented the Mar Ivanios College Alumni Association. Brother Dennis Thekkeparambil CMSF and Sr. Dr. Lydia DM shared reflections on behalf of the religious brothers and sisters respectively. Professor Dr. Jijimon K. Thomas, former Principal of Mar Ivanios College, also expressed gratitude, celebrating the bishop’s leadership in education and pastoral care.
The choir of Mar Ivanios College enriched the gathering with a melodious hymn, offering a musical prayer of thanksgiving and blessing.
In his sincere response, His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Mathews Mor Polycarpos expressed profound gratitude for the overwhelming support and love he received from the faithful of the Trivandrum Major Archieparchy. He humbly sought their prayers as he prepared to begin his new mission in the Mavelikara Eparchy.
Advocate Jojo K. Abraham, Secretary of the Pastoral Council of the Major Archieparchy, conveyed the vote of thanks, appreciating the contributions of all who made the event memorable.
The formal proceedings were followed by a fellowship meal, allowing clergy, religious, and laity to share moments of friendship and prayerful wishes.
This farewell was not merely a conclusion but a sacred transition, marking the completion of a significant chapter and the hopeful commencement of Mor Polycarpos’s episcopal ministry in Mavelikara – a journey marked by faith, service, and unwavering dedication to the Church.
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