History of Major Archdiocese of Trivandrum
The historic event of the reunion of His Grace Archbishop Geevarghese Mar Ivanios with the Catholic Church took place on 20 September 1930. Archbishop Mar Ivanios and Bishop Mar Theophilos along with Fr. John Kuzhinapurath OIC, Deacon Alexander OIC and Mr. Chacko Kilileth, who were members of the Malankara Orthodox Church, made their profession of faith on that day and entered into full communion with the Catholic Church. This event took place in the Chapel of the Latin Bishop’s House in Quilon (Kollam) before His Excellency Aloysius Maria Benziger OCD, Bishop of the Diocese of Quilon (Kollam), who was specially delegated by the Holy See for the same.
His Grace Mar Ivanios initiated the work of the Re-union Movement under the guidance of the Holy See, especially in the light of the Apostolic Decree Magnum Nobis of His Holiness Pope Pius XI. Mar Ivanios made his visit to Rome in 1932 and His Holiness Pope Pius XI invested him with the Sacred Pallium. The Holy Father, Pope Pius XI through the Apostolic Constitution Christo Pastorum Principi of 11 June 1932, established the Syro-Malankara Hierarchy and erected the Archieparchy of Trivandrum as the Metropolitan See with the suffragan Eparchy of Tiruvalla. The territorial boundary of the Archieparchy of Trivandrum was spread from Kanyakumari, the southern most part of India to the north up to river Pampa, to the western Ghats in the east and to the Arabian Sea in the west.
The Metropolitan Eparchy of Trivandrum, with its headquarters in Trivandrum, was inaugurated on 11 May 1933 and His Grace Mar Ivanios was enthroned as its first Metropolitan-Archbishop at the provisional Cathedral, dedicated to the Mother of God, at Palayam, Trivandrum. Archbishop Mar Ivanios was enthroned as the Metropolitan Archbishop of Trivandrum and the Hierarchical Head of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church and made the profession of faith before the assembly of the Bishops, priests and laymen amidst the acclamations of Oxios (a customary hymn for the occasion). The Apostolic Constitution was executed by His Excellency Aloysius Maria Benziger, the Bishop of Quilon. On the following day His Grace Mar Ivanios and Bishop Jacob Mar Theophilos celebrated the solemn Holy Qurbono in St. Mary’s Pro-Cathedral at Palayam. His Grace Mar Augustine Kandathil, the Archbishop of Ernakulam, His Grace Mar James Kalassery, the Archbishop of Changanassery, His Excellency Mar Alexander Choolaparambil, the Bishop of Kottayam, Rt. Rev. Joseph Pulikottil Ramban and Rt. Rev. Philipose Cheppad Remban were present on the occasion.
As part of the evangelising ministry of the southern regions of Thiru-Kochi (including parts now bordering Tamil Nadu), Archbishop Mar Ivanios initiated evangelisation ministry at Marthandam, Tamil Nadu. Later, with the permission and blessings of Archbishop Mar Ivanios, Rt. Rev. Msgr. Joseph Kuzhinjalil founded the missionary Congregation of the Daughters of Mary in 1938 at Marthandam in Kanyakumari District. Through the great zeal of these missionaries, the mission work of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church spread to the southern regions of Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
Mar Ivanios worked relentlessly for the building up of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church. Through his travels abroad (Countries in Europe, United States of America and Australia) he spread the message of ecclesial communion and the awareness of the mission of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church in the Universal Church. After a period of 22 years of strenuous hectic task of organizing and administering the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church he fell ill and remained so for a year. Archbishop Mar Ivanios ordained Benedict Mar Gregorios as his Auxiliary and the Titular Bishop of Anterdos on 29 January 1953. After a period of heroic leadership for the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church, and for the Metropolitan Eparchy of Trivandrum, Archbishop Mar Ivanios was called to eternal rest on 15 July 1953 and was entombed at St. Mary’s Cathedral, Pattom.
Upon the demise of His Grace Mar Ivanios, His Excellency Benedict Mar Gregorios was appointed the Apostolic Administrator of the Metropolitan Eparchy of Trivandrum by the Holy See. On 27 January 1955, His Holiness Pope Pius XII appointed him the Metropolitan Archbishop of Trivandrum and the Head of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church. Under the spiritual leadership, pastoral guidance and social commitment of Archbishop Benedict Mar Gregorios, the Church began to flourish in its various dimensions throughout the States in South India, North America and other European Countries.
The Syro-Malankara Catholic Church was making rapid growth. Most Rev. Paulos Mar Philoxinos, the Metropolitan of the Malabar Independent Church, reunited with the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church on 28 August 1977 and was appointed Episcopal Vicar of the Metropolitan Eparchy of Trivandrum.
His Excellency Most Rev. Lawrence Mar Ephraem (Fr. Lawrence Thottam) was appointed Auxiliary to the Metropolitan Archbishop of Trivandrum and Titular Bishop of Barkuso on 6 November 1980 and was ordained Bishop by His Grace Benedict Mar Gregorios on 27 December 1980 at Kottayam during the Golden Jubilee celebration of the Reunion Movement.
The Syro-Malankara Catholic Church was fortunate to welcome His Holiness Pope John Paul II on 8 February 1986 at St. Mary’s Cathedral, Pattom, Trivandrum. His Holiness was accorded a cordial reception by the entire Church, the Hierarchy and the representatives of the Clergy, the Religious and the Laity. The Supreme Pontiff was garlanded at the entrance of the Cathedral by His Grace Benedict Mar Gregorios and was received into the Cathedral with a liturgical reception by the Bishops of the Syro- Malankara Catholic Church. His Holiness prayed at the sanctuary. In His Speech the Holy Father praised the unity endeavors of Mar Ivanios: “In coming to this cathedral, I pay honor to the memory of Archbishop Mar Ivanios who is buried here. Among the many apostolic endeavors of this zealous pastor of souls, none was dearer to him than the promotion of unity among Christians.” After the visit to St. Mary’s Cathedral, His Holiness addressed the whole Catholic community from Trivandrum and the neighbouring districts at Shankumukham beach. In his memorable speech at Shankumukham the Holy Father praised the heroic leadership of Mar Ivanios and the ecclesial significance of the Syro-Malankara Reunion Movement
(Cf. L’Osservatore Romano, Feb.17, 1986).
His Eminence Cardinal Simon Lourdusamy, the Prefect of the Congregation for the Oriental Churches, visited the Metropolitan Eparchy of Trivandrum on 19 August 1987.
After an eventful leadership of 41 years His Grace the Metropolitan Archbishop Benedict Mar Gregorios was called to eternal rest on 10 October 1994 and was buried at St. Mary’s Cathedral. His Excellency Most Rev. Lawrence Mar Ephraem, the Proto-Syncellus, was elected the Administrator of the Metropolitan Eparchy of Trivandrum.
The Holy See, on 14 December 1995 appointed Most Rev. Cyril Mar Baselios, the Metropolitan of the Diocese of Bathery, the new Metropolitan Archbishop of Trivandrum and the Head of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church and the enthronement took place at St. Mary’s Cathedral, Trivandrum. His Grace received Sacred Pallium from the Holy Father Pope John Paul II on 9 January 1996 at the Vatican.
His Eminence Achille Cardinal Silvestrini, Prefect of the Congregation for the Oriental Churches, visited the Metropolitan Eparchy of Trivandrum, on 12th and 13th of February 1996.
His Eminence Josef Cardinal Tomko, Prefect of the Congregation for the Evangelisation of Peoples was received in the Archbishop’s House on 2 November 1996.
Upon the request of His Grace Cyril Mar Baselios, His Holiness Pope John Paul II erected the Eparchy of Marthandam, bifurcating the Metropolitan Eparchy of Trivandrum, on 16 December 1996 and Most Rev. Lawrence Mar Ephraem was appointed as its first Bishop. His Grace Cyril Mar Baselios officiated the installation of His Excellency Mar Ephraem at Christuraja Cathedral, Marthandam on 23 January 1997. The territorial boundary of the Eparchy of Marthandam extends to Kanyakumari in the south, Kalikavilai in the west, Kavalkinar in the north and Kumarapuram in the east.
Most Rev. Dr. Cyril Mar Baselios undertook an extension work of the Archbishop’s house Thirusannidhi and it was blessed on 11 and 12 March 1998.
On 16 April 1998, the Holy See appointed Most Rev. Dr. Joshua Mar Ignathios the Auxiliary Bishop for the Archieparchy of Trivandrum. He was ordained Bishop on 29 June 1998 at Mar Ivanios Nagar, Nalanchira, by Metropolitan Archbishop His Grace Cyril Mar Baselios.
His Excellency Most Rev. Paulos Mar Philoxenos, Episcopal Vicar of the Metropolitan Eparchy of Trivandrum went to receive his eternal reward on 3 November 1998 and was buried in St. John’s Cathedral Tiruvalla.
On 18 June 2001 Most Rev. Dr. Isaac Mar Cleemis was appointed by Pope John Paul II as the Apostolic Visitator of North America and Europe and the Auxiliary Bishop of Trivandrum and as the Titular Bishop of Chayal. His Episcopal Ordination took place on 15 August 2001 at Mar Ivanios Nagar, Thirumoolapuram, Tiruvalla. His Grace Cyril Mar Baselios, the Metropolitan Archbishop was the principal consecrator.
The Holy See on 11 September 2003 appointed Bishop Isaac Mar Cleemis, the Bishop of Tiruvalla when Bishop Geevarghese Mar Timotheos resigned due to super-annuation (on 29 March 2003). Most Rev. Dr. Isaac Mar Cleemis was installed Bishop of Tiruvalla on 2 October 2003.
Most Rev. Dr. Joseph Mar Thomas was appointed by Holy Father Pope John Paul II Apostolic Visitator to North America and Europe and Auxiliary Bishop of Trivandrum and as the Titular Bishop of Silcilibbensis on 5 January 2005. He was consecrated Bishop on 19 February 2005 at St. Mary’s Cathedral, Trivandrum, by His Grace Cyril Mar Baselios, the Metropolitan Archbishop.
On 10 February 2005, a day engraved in golden letters in the history of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church, His Holiness Pope John Paul II raised this Church to the status of a Major Archiepiscopal Church and appointed the Metropolitan Archbishop Most Rev. Dr. Cyril Mar Baselios the Major Archbishop of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church by the Papal Bull Ab ipso Sancto Thoma (Pope John Paul II, Apostolic Bull, Ab ipso Sancto Thoma, Prot. No. 570.809, 10 February 2005, Malankara, 1 (2005) 1, p. 12). This was the crowning event of all the ecclesial communion endeavors in Malankara since 1653. Thus the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church obtained the Synodal Hierarchical structure with Major Archbishop as the “father and head” (pater et caput) of the Church exercising Patriarchal powers with the Synod of Bishops. In accordance with the provisions of the CCEO and the tradition of the Malankara Church, which has its roots in the Syro-Antiochene tradition, the Major Archbishop is the “Catholicos” of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church, who with the Holy Episcopal Synod exercises Patriarchal powers envisaged in the CCEO (Pope Pius XII, Motu proprio, Cleri sanctitati, AAS 49 (1957) 430-603, c. 335). In complete concordance with this tradition, the pater et caput of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Major Archiepiscopal Church assumed the title ‘Catholicos’ along with the title Major Archbishop. The announcement was officiated by His Grace Pedro Lopez Quintana, the Apostolic Nuncio at St. Mary’s Cathedral, Pattom in the presence of all Bishops of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church and a large number of clergy and faithful.
The enthronement of Major Archbishop-Catholicos Moran Mor Cyril Baselios, as the Father and Head of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Major Archi episcopal Church and the Major Archbishop of Trivandrum, was held at St. Mary’s Cathedral on 14 May 2005. His Eminence Ignace Cardinal Moussa Daoud, the Prefect of the Congregation for the Oriental Churches and the Patriarch Emeritus of the Syrian Catholic Church of Antioch presided over the liturgy of enthronement. A large number of Bishops, dignitaries, clergy, religious and lay people participated in the functions.
The Platinum Jubilee of the Reunion Movement and the Year of the Eucharist were celebrated jointly at Mar Ivanios Nagar, Punnamoodu, Mavelikara from
19-21 September 2005. His Grace Pedro Lopez Quintana, the Apostolic Nuncio in India, Shri Bhaironsingh Shekhawat, the Vice-President of India, and Shri Oommen Chandy, the Chief Minister of Kerala etc, participated in the celebrations.
As per the decision of the Holy Episcopal Synod of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church, and with the approval of the Holy See, His Beatitude Moran Mor Cyril Baselios Catholicos, the Major Archbishop-Catholicos, bifurcated the Major Archieparchy of Trivandrum, and established the new Eparchy of Mavelikara on 1 January 2007 (Decree, Prot. No. 1/2007). His Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Joshua Mar Ignathios, the Auxiliary Bishop of Trivandrum was transferred and appointed (Decree, Prot. No. 2/2007) the first Bishop of Mavelikara by His Beatitude Cyril Baselios. The Eparchy of Mavelikara comprises of the ecclesiastical districts of Mavelikara and Kollam and parts of the ecclesiastical districts of Chengannur and Adoor. Most Rev. Dr. Joshua Mar Ignathios was installed in office at St. Mary’s Church, Punnamood on 16 February 2007.
As per the decision of the Second Ordinary Holy Episcopal Synod of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church, which was convoked on 6-7 December 2006 and the ministerial titles of Ramban and Corepiscopo which were in vogue were revived in the Church and to honour a few priests for their meritorious service in the Church. Moran Mor Cyril Baselios Catholicos conferred these titles on ten priests on 17 January, 2007 at St. Mary’s Cathedral, Pattom.
His Beatitude Moran Mor Cyril Baselios, the first Major Archbishop-Catholicos of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church passed away on 18 January 2007 and was entombed at St. Mary’s Cathedral, Pattom, Trivandrum on 20 January 2007. On 18 January 2007, Most Rev. Dr. Geevarghese Mar Divannasios, the Bishop of Bathery, assumed the office of the Administrator of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church and of the Major Archieparchy of Trivandrum as per CCEO c.127.
The members of the Holy Episcopal Synod of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Major Archiepiscopal Church assembled for the Synod of Election for the first time in the history of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church on 8 February 2007. On 10 February 2007, after getting the confirmation from the Holy Father Pope Benedict XVI (Decree No. 13.695/07), the Administrator of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church announced the election of His Grace Most Rev. Dr. Isaac Mar Cleemis, the then Metropolitan Archbishop of Tiruvalla as the new Major Archbishop- Catholicos and the Major Archbishop of Trivandrum. As per the tradition of the Malankara Church, the new Major Archbishop-Catholicos assumed the official name Baselios (along with his episcopal name Cleemis). This was the first time the Head of an Oriental Catholic Church in India was elected by the Episcopal Synod.
Moran Mor Baselios Cleemis was enthroned as the Second Major Archbishop-Catholicos of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church and the Major Archbishop of Trivandrum on 5 March 2007 at St. Mary’s Cathedral, Pattom. His installation service was officiated by Most Rev. Dr. Geevarghese Mar Divannasios, the Synodal Administrator of the Church. The ecclesiastical and political dignitaries who participated in the enthronement ceremony included His Eminence Cardinal Telesphore Toppo (President of the CBCI), His Eminence Cardinal Varkey Vithayathil (Major Archbishop of the Syro-Malabar Church) and Shri. V. S. Achuthanandan (the Chief Minister of Kerala), His Grace Oswald Gracious (Archbishop of Mumbai), representatives of the Congregation for the Oriental Churches, besides a large number of Bishops, Priests, Religious and lay faithful.
During the 54th Anniversary of the Commemoration of Archbishop Mar Ivanios, His Beatitude Moran Mor Baselios Cleemis, the Major Archbishop-Catholicos proclaimed Mar Ivanios Servant of God at St. Mary’s Cathedral, Pattom on 14 July 2007.
The Tomb of the venerable prelates in St. Mary’s Cathedral was renovated and extended in July 2008. His Beatitude Moran Mor Baselios Cleemis Catholicos blessed the tomb chapel on 5th July 2008. The sanctuary of St. Mary’s Cathedral was renovated and the portico was extended and was blessed on November 8, 2008.
The Platinum Jubilee of the Major Archieparchy of Trivandrum (1933-2008) was celebrated during 2007-2008. Conventions for spiritual renovation were held in every ecclesiastical district. 75 houses were built and given to the poor families of the Major Archdiocese. Many charity schemes were launched in parishes and ecclesiastical districts. The Jubilee was formally concluded with the visit of His Eminence Leonardo Cardinal Sandri, the Prefect of the Congregation for the Oriental Churches on 10 November 2008. Holy Episcopal Synod led the community in giving a formal reception to Leonardo Cardinal Sandri. During the Holy Mass at the St. Mary’s Cathedral, the Cardinal Prefect delivered the Jubilee Message and transmitted the Blessing of the Holy Father.
Upon the request of His Beatitude Moran Mor Baselios Cleemis, Major Archbishop-Catholicos, the Supreme Pontiff Pope Benedict XVI elevated
St. Mary Queen of Peace Church Palayam to the title and dignity of a Basilica with all its rights and liturgical privileges on 13 October, 2008, as a souvenir of the Platinum Jubilee of the Major Archieparchy of Trivandrum (2007-2008). His Eminence Leonardo Cardinal Sandri made the declaration during his visit on 10 November 2008. The Church was elevated to the status of Basilica through a solemn liturgical ceremony by His Beatitude Moran Mor Baselios Cleemis, Major Archbishop - Catholicos, on 7 December 2008.
From 20-26 September 2009, His Beatitude Moran Mor Ignace Yousuf III Younan, the Patriarch of the Syrian Catholic Church of Antioch and a Delegation from the same Church visited the Major Archieparchy of Trivandrum. His Beatitude the Patriarch was the Chief Guest at the 79th Reunion Day Celebrations on 19-21 September 2009.
As per the decision of the Holy Episcopal Synod of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church and having consulted the Apostolic See of Rome, His Beatitude Moran Mor Baselios Cleemis, Major Archbishop-Catholicos, erected the Eparchy of Pathanamthitta bifurcating the Major Archieparchy of Trivandrum on 25 January 2010. The official declaration was made on the same day by His Beatitude the Major Archbishop-Catholicos at St. Mary’s Cathedral. The territory of the Eparchy of Pathanamthitta consists of four ecclesiastical districts-Pathanamthitta, Konni, Ranni-Perunadu, Pandalam- and the parishes of Anandapally, Angadickal, Chandanapally, Pongaldy and Thatta of the Ecclesiastical District of Adoor. His Excellency Yoohanon Mar Chrysostom, the Eparch of Marthandam, was transferred and appointed the new Bishop of the Eparchy of Pathanamthitta. It was inaugurated and His Excellency Most Rev. Yoohanon Mar Chrysostom was installed on 20 March 2010. Inauguration ceremony was conducted at Cyril Baselios Catholicos Nagar (Muncipal Stadium, Pathanamthitta) and the installation took place at Sacred Heart Malankara Catholic Church, Mylapra.
The Holy Episcopal Synod of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church with the approval of His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI, Most Rev. Dr. Samuel Mar Irenios was appointed by the Major Archbishop-Catholicos as the Auxiliary Bishop of Trivandrum. Most Rev. Dr. Samuel Mar Irenios was consecrated Bishop (along with Most Rev. Dr. Vincent Mar Paulos, Most Rev. Dr. Thomas Mar Anthonios and Most Rev. Dr. Philipos Mar Stephanos) by His Beatitude Moran Mor Baselios Cleemis on 13 March 2010 at Mar Ivanios Vidya Nagar, Nalanchira, Trivandrum. His Beatitude Gregorios III Laham, the Patriarch of the Greek Melkite Catholic Church and a Delegation from the same Church participated in the Episcopal Ordination.
The Major Archbishop’s House Chapel was renovated along with adding a Council Hall, Guest Block, Sisters’ Residence Block, Kitchen etc (2009). This provided more space for the effective functioning of the Curia of the Major Archdiocese of Trivandrum.
The Major Archieparchy of Trivandrum hosted the 80th Reunion Day Celebrations. His Beatitude blessed the newly built Samannuaya Pastoral Centre in St. Mary’s Cathedral Campus on 20 September 2010. During the 80th Reunion day Celebrations at St. Mary’s Cathedral, Pattom, Most Rev. Dr. Thomas Mar Eusebius, the newly appointed Exarch of USA and Apostolic Visitator for Canada and Europe was consecrated a Bishop by His Beatitude Moran Mor Baselios Cleemis Catholicos at St. Mary’s Cathedral, Pattom, Trivandrum on 21 September 2010.
The Major Archdiocese of Trivandrum celebrated the Silver Jubilee of the historic visit of Pope John Paul II to St. Mary’s Cathedral by erecting a gate dedicated to him. His Beatitude Baselios Cleemis blessed the gate and the Director General of Kerala Police Shri Jacob Punnoose IPS inaugurated the gate on 11 June 2011.
As part of the preparation for the First Syro-Malankara Catholic Church Assembly held from 21 to 23 of September 2011, the Major Archdiocese of Trivandrum convened an Eparchial Assembly on 22 and 23 of July, 2011 and 153 delegates representing the whole Major Archieparchy participated in the Assembly. The Ecclesial Assembly gave new impetus to the mission awareness of the Church. “Evangelisation” was the theme selected for the Assembly. The leitmotiv of the Ecclesial Assembly was “The Evangelizing (Suvisheshakayaya) Syro-Malankara Catholic Church: From Experience to Testimony”.
With the intention of bringing faithful closer to God to renew the Church, the Major Archdiocese dedicated a Chapel for Perpetual Eucharistic Adoration near the tomb of the great prelates at St. Mary’s Cathedral on 18 September 2011. It was officiated by His Beatitude Moran Mor Baselios Cleemis Catholicos.
Witnessing Church’s care for the sick and poor the Major Archdiocese of Trivandrum started a Community Hospital at Pirappencode, Trivandrum in St. John’s Malankara Medical Village. His Beatitude Baselios Cleemis Catholicos, the Major Archbishop of Trivandrum officiated the blessing and dedication ceremony on 5 November, 2011. Honourable Central Minister, Shri Vayalar Ravi inaugurated the St. John’s Community Hospital. Many Dignitaries and thousands of people took part in the function.
The Clergy Home Saayujyam (Senior Priests’ Home) of the Major Archdiocese was renovated and blessed by His Beatitude Baselios Cleemis Catholicos on 7 August 2012. This new facility provided a peaceful and comfortable stay for the priests who dedicated their whole life for the service of the Church.
On 24 September, 2012 Mar Gregorios College of Law, Nalanchira was inaugurated in Mar Ivanios Vidya Nagar, Trivandrum in order to form excellent and professional advocates for the nation, with the motto “Righteousness is Immortal”.
One would gaze in wonder at how the Will of God unfolds in the life of His Beatitude. After his priestly ordination in 1986, he became a bishop in 2001. Within the next 11 years he was appointed Cardinal on the 24 October, 2012, at the age of 53 having the honour of being the youngest among the Cardinals. His appointment as a Cardinal is the crowning event of Syro-Malankara Catholic Major Archiepiscopal Church and his elevation is a blessing to India as a whole.
On 24 October 2012 Holy Father Pope Benedict XVI announced his decision to create His Beatitude Moran Mor Baselios Cleemis, Major Archbishop-Catholicos of the Malankara Syrian Catholic Church as a Cardinal in the Universal Church.
His Beatitude was created a Cardinal along with other five new Cardinals in the Consistory held on 24 November, 2012, officiated by the Supreme Pontiff Pope Benedict XVI at St. Peter’s Basilica, Rome, in the presence of all the Bishops of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church, His Beatitude George Cardinal Alanchery, the Head of the Syro-Malabar Church and His Grace Most Rev. Soosa Pakiam, the Archbishop of Trivandrum of the Latin Rite and the Bishops of other Christian denominations such as Jacobite Church, Marthomite Church, and Church of South India creating an ecumenical atmosphere. The honourable Mayor of the city of Trivandrum and esteemed representatives of the Central and of Kerala State Government and leaders of Hindu and Muslim religions and the Malankara faithful in the world over were present on this auspicious occasion.
The following day 25th November 2012, His Beatitude Baselios Cardinal Cleemis and other five new Cardinals concelebrated Holy Mass in the morning with His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI at St. Peter’s Basilica, Rome. The whole delegation from India and faithful from all over the world took part in the Holy Mass.
On the same day evening, the entire Delegation and the Syro-Malankara Catholic community and its friends gathered at St. John and Paul Basilica (the Passionist Generalate, Rome) to celebrate the event. A grand reception to the Bishops and the Delegates were given at the entrance of the Basilica, followed by Holy Mass and a felicitation gathering. The holy Mass was offered in the Syro-Malankara Catholic Rite and prayers were recited in Malayalam, English, Italian, German, Hindi, Kannada and Tamil. Among the dignitaries who spoke on the occasion include Most Rev. Dr. Soosa Pakiam, Archbishop of the Latin Archdiocese of Trivandrum, Adv. Chandrika, Mayor of the City of Trivandrum, Palode Ravi MLA, Swami Gururethnam Jnana Thapaswi of Santhigiri Ashram, Swami Sooshmananda of Sivagiri Ashram, Imam Jamaludeen Mankada, Palayam Imam and Very Rev. Dr. Joseph Chinnayyan (CBCI Deputy Secretary General).
Holy Father Pope Benedict XVI met the Indian Delegation led by His Beatitude Baselios Cardinal Cleemis Catholicos on 26 October at Paul VI Audience Hall, Vatican. All the Indian Cardinals were present on the occasion.
Holy Father Pope Benedict XVI assigned His Beatitude Baselios Cardinal Cleemis as Cardinal-Priest of San Gregorio VII. His Beatitude took charge of the titular Church on 20 May 2013 in a function presided over by His Eminence Leonardo Cardinal Sandri.
On 1 December 2012 the Malankara Syrian Catholic Church gathered together under the blissful leadership of His Beatitude Baselios Cardinal Cleemis Catholicos, along with several Cardinals and Bishops from all over India at St. Mary’s Cathedral, Trivandrum to offer Holy Qurbono to thank the Almighty Lord.
On 17 July 2013 the Major Archdiocese of Trivandrum started Cardinal Cleemis School of Management Studies in the Mar Ivanios Vidya Nagar Nalanchira, Trivandrum.The School functions with the motto “Devoted to Ethics and Excellence”.
His Beatitude Baselios Cardinal Cleemis Catholicos was appointed to the National Integration Council under category IX (Eminent Public Figures). The National Integration Council under the Chairmanship of the Prime Minister was reconstituted on 28 October 2013.
His Beatitude Baselios Cardinal Cleemis Catholicos was elected President of the Kerala Catholic Bishops’ Council (KCBC) on 12 December 2013. Baselios Cardinal Cleemis Catholicos was elected President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI) on 11 February 2014 in its plenary session held at Pala. Later on 19 August 2014 His Beatitude was elected President of the National United Christian Forum (NUCF).
In June 2014, Mar Ivanios College which was started by Servant of God Archbishop Mar Ivanios was elevated to the status of an ‘Autonomous College’ by the University Grants Commission of the Government of India.
The 61st Mar Ivanios Day Celebration was blessed with the presence of Most Rev. Archbishop Cyril Vasil, the Secretary of the Congregation for the Oriental Churches, Rome. His Grace delivered the homily during the Eucharistic Celebration. All the Bishops of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church, a large number of Priests, Religious and Lay Faithful were present at the functions.
The Major Archdiocese of Trivandrum started a new Unaided/Self-Financing Arts and Science College at Nellikkad, Kollode, Kattakkada in Trivandrum Dist. The College is named after Mother Theresa who dedicated her whole life for the poor and downtrodden. This College primarily aims at providing quality education to the students of the economically backward area of the Southern parts of the State. The College was inaugurated by His Beatitude Moran Mor Baselios Cardinal Cleemis on 4th August 2014.
Saanthwanam, a house for the poor patients, was inaugurated by the Chief Minister of Kerala, Shri. Oommen Chandy in a function presided over by His Beatitude Baselios Cardinal Cleemis at Chalakkuzhy E- Lane, Pattom, in St. Mary’s Compound on 29 October 2014. It provides accommodation free of cost to the poor patients coming to the Regional Cancer Centre, Sree Chithra Medical Institute, Govt. Medical College etc. At present it can accommodate 50 patients and the same number of by-standers.
The Vicar General Rt. Rev. Msgr. Dr. Mathew Manakarakavil and Very Rev. Fr. James Paravila, Vicar of St. Mary’s Cathedral were given the ecclesiastical honour and title ‘Corepiscopo’ by His Beatitude Baselios Cardinal Cleemis Catholicos on 1 November, 2014 at St. Mary’s Cathedral, Pattom.
A shrine was erected adjacent to the St. John Paul II gate and a bronze statue of St. John Paul II was donated by the Apostolic Nuncio to India, His Grace Archbishop Salvatore Pennacchio which was blessed by His Beatitude Baselios Cardinal Cleemis Catholicos on 17 February 2015.
The Major Archdiocese planned a yearlong birth centenary celebration of His Grace Benedict Mar Gregorios. The inaugural function was held at St. Mary’s Higher Secondary School Auditorium, Pattom, Trivandrum on 17 February 2015. The function was inaugurated by Shri Oommen Chandy, the Chief Minister of Kerala and presided over by His Beatitude Baselios Cardinal Cleemis Catholicos. The following programmes were launched on that day:
- Hundred Birth Centenary Memorial Speeches (India and Abroad)
- Benedict Mar Gregorios Birth Centenary Cancer Care Home at Pirappancode, Trivandrum
- Benedict Mar Gregorios ‘Green Project’
- Benedict Mar Gregorios Village Development Program
- Centenary Memorial Award
- Inter-Religious Conferences
- Ecumenical Conferences
- Distribution of Lunch in District Hospitals for one year
- Anti-liquor conscientisation programmes
- Religious’ and Priests’ Meet
- Benedict Mar Gregorios Research Scholarship
- Marriage Aid to 100 poor women
- Centenary Memorial Book
- Book on Mar Gregorios - for children
- Quiz and Literary Competition
The Vicar General of the Major Archdiocese, Rt. Rev. Msgr. Geevarghese Mannikkarott Corepiscopo was given the title ‘Domestic Prelate’ (chaplain of the Holy Father) by Pope Francis. It was conferred on 17 April 2015 by His Beatitude Baselios Cardinal Cleemis Catholicos at St. Mary’s Cathedral, Pattom.
His Eminence Peter Cardinal Turkson (President, Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace, Rome) visited the Major Archdiocese of Trivandrum from 14-16 July 2015 in order to participate in the 62nd Mar Ivanios Day celebrations. His Eminence delivered the homily during the Holy Mass. During the lunch at Catholicate Centre, His Eminence met with the Bishops of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church. On 16 July His Eminence offered Holy Mass at St. Mary’s Malankara Seminary.
Girideepam Convention Centre at Mar Ivanios Vidya Nagar was blessed and inaugurated on 28 July 2015 by His Beatitude Baselios Cardinal Cleemis Catholicos. This completely air-conditioned halls can accommodate 2000 people in the upper main hall and 1000 people in the lower hall. During the inaugural ceremony the keys of 502 homes built under the project of “Snehapoorvam Oru Veedu” were handed over to the beneficiaries.
Major Archiepiscopal phase of the canonization process of Servant of God Archbishop Mar Ivanios was completed in the year 2016. It was officially and solemnly concluded at St. Mary’s Cathedral, Pattom on 25th August 2016. The Roman phase was begun on 8th September 2016.
The House of Memories (Beth Dukhrone) - A museum was inaugurated at the third floor of the Major Archbishop’s house on 25 July 2017 by His Beatitude Moran Mor Baselios Cardinal Cleemis. This contains the ever valuable photos and materials in connection with the life and mission of the first great three prelates, Servant of God Archbishop Mar Ivanios, Archbishop Benedict Mar Gregorios and Moran Mor Cyril Baselios the first Catholicos, who were the heads of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church and also of the Major Archdiocese of Trivandrum.
With the consent of the Holy Episcopal Synod of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church and with the assent of His Holiness Pope Francis, His Beatitude Moran Mor Baselios Cardinal Cleemis, Major Archbishop- Catholicos appointed Rt. Rev. Msgr. Dr. John Kochuthundil, the Syncellus of the Major Archieparchy of Trivandrum, the Bishop of the Major Archiepiscopal Curia, titular Bishop of Tuburbo Maggiore and the Apostolic Visitator to Europe and Oceania on 5 August 2017. The official declaration was made on the same day by His Beatitude at St. Mary’s Cathedral, Trivandrum.
Major Archdiocese hosted the 87th Reunion celebrations and Sabhasangamam at Adoor held from 19 to 21 September 2018. During this celebrations, Rt. Rev. Msgr. George Kalayil was ordained as Geevarghese Mar Makarios, the second Bishop of Puttur by His Beatitude Moran Mor Baselios Cardinal Cleemis Catholicos on 21 September 2007. The newly appointed Curia Bishop and Apostolic Visitator to Europe and Oceania Rt. Rev. Msgr. John Kochuthundil, Syncellus of the Major Archieparchy of Trivandrum, was ordained as Yoohanon Mar Theodosius by His Beatitude Moran Mor Baselios Cardinal Cleemis Catholicos on the same day at Adoor.
As per the decision of the Holy Episcopal Synod of the Syro Malankara Catholic Church and with the approval of the Holy See, His Beatitude Moran Mor Baselios Cardinal Cleemis, Major Archbishop Catholicos bifurcated the Major Archieparchy of Trivandrum and erected the Eparchy of Parassala on 5 August 2017. On the same day, His Excellency the Most Rev. Dr. Thomas Mar Eusebius, the then Bishop of the St. Mary, Queen of Peace Syro-Malankara Catholic Eparchy in the USA and Canada was appointed as the first Bishop of Parassala. The territory of the Eparchy of Parassala consists of the three ecclesiastical districts of Neyyattinkara, Parassala and Kattakada.
The inauguration of the Eparchy of Parassala and the Enthronement of His Excellency Mar Eusebius was held on 23 September, 2017 by His Beatitude Baselios Cardinal Cleemis at St. Joseph’s Malankara Catholic Church, Balaramapuram.
St. Basil Chapel-the Chapel of the Major Archbishop’s house, which was built by Archbishop Mar Gregorios of Happy Memory, was renovated and consecrated with Holy Myron by His Beatitude Baselios Cardinal Cleemis Catholicos on 6, 8 March 2018. It was named after St. Basil, the Patron Saint of the Head of the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church.
As a fulfillment of the long cherished intension of having retreat centre for the Church, Mount Carmel Retreat Centre was blessed by His Beatitude Baselios Cardinal Cleemis Catholicos on 8 April 2018 at Vettinadu, near Vattappara, Trivandrum.
During the session of Holy Episcopal Synod on 19-23 February 2018, the Holy Episcopal Synod decided to have two Co-adjutor Bishops respectively, for Pathanamthitta and Muvattupuzha. After having received the consent of the Holy See, His Beatitude Moran Mor Baselios Cardinal Cleemis Catholicos announced the names of two Co-adjutor Bishops for the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church. Most Rev. Dr. Samuel Mar Irenios, the Auxiliary Bishop of the Major Archieparchy of Trivandrum, was appointed the Co-adjutor for the Eparchy of Pathanamthitta and Most Rev. Dr. Yoohanon Mar Theodosius, the Bishop of the Curia and the Apostolic Visitator to Europe & Oceania, was appointed the Co-adjutor Bishop for the Eparchy of Muvattupuzha. The announcement was made at St. Mary’s Cathedral, Pattom, Trivandrum on 10 April 2018.
On 10 April 2018 Most Rev. Dr. Yoohanon Mar Theodosius was appointed as the Co-adjutor Bishop of the Eparchy of Muvattupuzha and he took charge of the office on 12 April 2018 while continuing as the Bishop of the Major Archiepiscopal Curia.
On 10 April 2018 Most Rev. Dr. Samuel Mar Irenios, the Auxiliary Bishop of the Major Archieparchy of Trivandrum was appointed as the Co-adjutor Bishop of the Eparchy of Pathanamthitta and he took charge of the office on 29 April 2018.
His Eminence Rainer Cardinal Woelki, Archbishop of Cologne, Germany visited the Major Archdiocese of Trivandrum (13-18 July 2018) as the Chief Guest of 65th Mar Ivanios Day Celebrations 2018. His Eminence participated in the candle light procession on 13th evening at the Cathedral and delivered the homily during the concelebrated Holy Mass on 14th July 2018 at St. Mary’s Cathedral, Trivandrum. Cardinal Woelki visited the Mar Ivanios Vidya Nagar Campus, St. Aloysius Minor Seminary and Mar Gregorios Snehaveedu.
The 66th commemoration of the Servant of God Archbishop Mar Ivanios was celebrated on 15th July 2019.The Chief Guest of this event was His Beatitude Ibrahim Isak Sedrak Gad Elsayed,The Patriarch of Coptic Catholic Church in Egypt and Bishop Thomas Ad Maher Adly Zaky,Coptic Catholic Metropolitan.
However, the onset of global pandemic covid-19 put many restrictions to the celebrations of the church for the next two years. The 67th and 68th Commem- oration of the Servant of God, Archbishop Mar Ivanios was celebrated in a restricted manner due to 'covid-19'.
Having consulted the Apostolic See and with the approval of the Holy Epis- copal Synod of the Syro Malankara Catholic Church, H.B. Moran Mor Baselios Cardinal Cleemis, The Major Archbishop Catholicos appointed Most Rev. Antony Mar Silvanos and Most Rev. Mathews Mar Polycarpos and Consecrated them as Bishop of the Major Archiepiscopal Curia and Auxiliary Bishop of the Major Archdiocese of Trivandrum respectfully on 15th July 2022 St. Mary's Cathedral Pattom. 92nd Reunion Day Celebration were held in St. John's Cathedral, Tiruvalla hosted by Archdiocese of Tiruvalla on 21st September with various programs.
The 70th commemoration of the Servant of God Archbishop Mar Ivanios was celebrated on 15th July 2023 at St Mary’s Major Archieparchial Cathedral, Pattom, Trivandrum. The Chief Guest of this event was His Excellency Most Reverend Archbishop Leopoldo Girelli, the Apostolic Nuncio to India and Nepal and Titular Archbishop of Capreae. 93rd Reunion Day and Sabha Sangamam held at St. Joseph’s Cathedral Church, Muvattupuzha on 2023 Sep 21 with various programmes.
His Beatitude Moran Mor Baselios Cardinal Cleemis Catholicos attended XVI Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops convened in Rome from Oct 4 to Oct 29, 2023 on Synodality, officially titled, “For a Synodal Church: Communion, Participation, Mission.”
Major Archbishop - Catholicos
H. B. Moran Mor Baselios Cardinal Cleemis
Born : 15-06-1959
Ordained Priest : 11-06-1986
Announcement as Auxiliary Bishop of Trivandrum
& Apostolic Visitator of North America & Europe : 18-06-2001
Consecrated Bishop : 15-08-2001
Announcement as the Bishop of Tiruvalla : 11-09-2003
Installation as the Bishop of Tiruvalla : 02-10-2003
Announcement as the Metropolitan
Archbishop of Tiruvalla : 15-05-2006
Installed as Metropolitan Archbishop of Tiruvalla : 10-06-2006
Elected Major Archbishop - Catholicos : 10-02-2007
Installation as Major Archbishop - Catholicos : 05-03-2007
Announcement as Cardinal : 24-10-2012
Created Cardinal : 24-11-2012
Feast of the Heavenly Patron - St. Basil the Great : 1 January