‘Satyamev Jayate’ (Truth alone triumphs).

Life and times of Blessed Alvares Mar Julius Metropolitan (of blessed memory). Commemorated on 23^rd September.

In the early hours of 14 September 1895, around 298 Maratha sepoys of the Portuguese Indian army broke open the door of the ammunitions store at the Panjim police headquarters, gathered the arms and ammunitions and with the Maratha war cry of ‘Har Har Mahadev’, rose up in rebellion. This was the second mutiny witnessed in the Portuguese Indian army after the great mutiny of 1857 that jolted their next-door colonial neighbor in the Indian subcontinent- the British.

Blessed Alvares Thirumeni’s name was in focus as being the instigator of the mutiny alongwith fellow Goan - Mr. Ignacio Caetano de Carvalho, the Viscount of Bardez.

Mozambique was another colony of Portugal and the services of the Marathas from Goa, whose fighting spirit the Portuguese were appreciative of, was called to crush the revolt in Africa. The highhanded decree, pitiable working conditions, low wages, no guarantee of the period of stay in Africa or maintenance of their families while they were away led to a high discontentment among the soldiers. The final blow was when the soldiers were threatened to be sent to Mozambique by force and subjected to physical violence. A fertile cause for mutiny. Later, the mutineers were joined by the Ranes and the revolt became so explosive that a military expedition under the command of a royal family member had to come from Portugal.

The allegations against Blessed Alvares Thirumeni was levelled by Captain Gomes da Costa, the Administrator of Ilhas, who claimed that Bishop Alvares and Viscount of Bardez were instigating the masses and the soldiers to unite and fight for the cause “India for the Indians”. Bishop Alvares had nothing to do with the revolt save for the fact that him pleaded for the cause of Maratha Sepoys in his periodicals and thus the establishment’s needle of suspicion focused on him.

Another reason why Bishop Alvares was suspected is because that newspapers in Lisbon attributed the mutiny chiefly to Lt. Col, Julio Luis Felner, the commander of the battalion who was greatly respected by the sepoys for he treated them fairly. Interestingly, Lt. Col. Felner, was also accused of lending a voice in the defense of Blessed Alvares Thirumeni when Thirumeni was tried by the Portuguese government for ‘inciting seditious’ sentiments through his newspaper, ‘O Brado Indiano’. Lt. Col. Felner’s visiting card had been found in the possession of Bishop Alvares leading to speculation that both worked hand in gloves in inciting the mutiny. What followed was a ruthless attempt by the government to crush any ‘anti-national’ voice. A war council was established filling the jails all those who were suspected to be associated with Ranes revolt/mutiny. Alvares Thirumeni's periodicals were banned and his press burnt. Thus, Alvares Thirumeni was forced to flee from his home state.

This wasn’t the first time Blessed Alvares Thirumeni suffered for siding with the truth and certainly it wasn’t the last.

As a Roman catholic priest, Padre Alvares took up the editorship of the journal, ‘A Cruz’, a religious journal dedicated to the defense of the religious and social interests of the country that appeared in 1876,  after the untimely death of its editor Fr. Manuel Agostinho de Carvalho due to tuberculosis. The young Padre exposed fearlessly, in each journal issue, the excesses and the shortcomings of the Portuguese government. The situation started to worsen with the coming of the new Archbishop- Dom Sebastião António Valente, who also became the first Patriarch of the East Indies when Goan archdiocese was elevated to the position of the Patriarchate of the East Indies in 1886. Within two months of his arrival, the Archbishop issued a decree banned ‘A Cruz’ calling it scandalous and revolutionary, forbidding the faithful from reading it. Padre Alvares wasn’t going to take it lying down and appealed to the Crown. The Goa High Court gave a ruling in Padre Alvares’ favour. Satyamev Jayate.

The was a blow to Archbishop Valente, and he used his might to file an appeal in the Supreme Court which refused to take cognizance of his petition.

Padre Alvares was forced to start another ‘A Verdade’ (meaning truth) since ‘A Cruz’ lost its readership due to the Archbishop’s orders. He also started other periodicals as well- ‘O Progresso de Goa’ and ‘Times of Goa’. Archbishop Valente became the chairman of the governing council in 1885 and Padre Alvares decided to quit Goa owing to harassment by Archbishop Valente who now exercised both ecclesiastical as well as civil powers. The following years saw Padre Alvares accepting the Orthodox faith and discharging his ecclesiastical duties as being ordained to the Episcopate as the Metropolitan of Goa, Ceylon and India (outside Malabar).

Blessed Alvares Thirumeni continued his journalistic duties to expose the corruptions and shortcomings of the government. In the July 1895 issue of 'O Brado Indiano', a riddle was published wherein the readers had to guess the name of the army officer who did a series of offences while stationed at different places. This provoked Capt. Gomes da Costa as he felt the references were attributed to him. Capt. Gomes da Costa not only took the matter to court but also demanded that a clear explanation be made in the journal's next issue as to whether the riddle was targeted at him.

Blessed Alvares Thirumeni gave a sharp-witted response in the next edition; he stated of all the people, only Captain Gomes da Costa demanded for such a clarification and that only he (Captain da Costa) can throw some light regarding his demand. Capt. Gomes da Costa was in a spot!

The matter ended in court when the respondents explained that it's just a riddle and will remain so unless the reader comes with a solution.

Vengeful Captain Gomes da Costa plotted a revenge against the venerable bishop. On 19th August, at 7 PM, Blessed Alvares Thirumeni was returning in a horse driven car from Santa Cruz when few policemen arrested him near the Phoenix fountain. On the way, the policemen forcefully tried to snatch Thirumeni's pectoral cross and ring, to which Thirumeni offered stiff resistance and said that they could remove those only after he was dead. But the violence used against Thirumeni was so great that he was forcibly deprived of the Episcopal signia. The policemen didn't stop there. They stripped the venerable bishop of his ecclesiastical vestments and paraded him to the police station in his undergarments. Alvares Thirumeni was kept in a small filthy cell measuring 3 metres long and 1.5 metres wide smelling of urine and faeces without light, air, or even a chair. 

Cases of apostasy, offences against Portugal's religion, including undue wearing of clerical vestments (a 'crime' Alvares Thirumeni was convicted and cleared of in 1890). Bishop Alvares was honorably acquitted by court on reviewing the documentary evidences. Satyamev Jayate.

Capt Gomes da Costa's vengeance wasn't satiated. He had Alvares Thirumeni arrested two days later citing treason and being a security threat both internally and externally. A leading lawyer Mr. F.X. Sales de Andrade offered security of Rs 5000 (a princely sum in those times!) for Alvares Thirumeni's bail which the judge accepted. The public prosecutor claimed that the offence was non-bailable and submitted an appeal in the High Court. Truth triumphed again as the High Court upheld the ruling of the lower court. Satyamev Jayate.

Facing innumerable persecution from the Portuguese civil and clerical authorities, Blessed Alvares Thirumeni accepted British citizenship (being a subject of British India) in 1904 and had shifted his residence, for a considerable time to Castle Rock (present day Karnataka).

In 1906, Alvares Thirumeni visited Goa and this time too, the Portuguese authorities illegally detained him. The ordeal lasted more than 30 hours. The authorities had the blessings of Archbishop Valente- the Patriarch of East Indies (the same Archbishop who we read earlier as having banned 'A Cruz') to take such action. That Alvares Thirumeni was a British subject or that he was an old man  was all thrown to the winds. The vengeance of the authorities knew no bounds. The British Consul in Goa had to intervene to release Thirumeni.

We can't even fathom the extent of harassment and dangers which Alvares Thirumeni had to undergo for speaking the truth and choosing the Orthodox faith. Even in his deathbed, there were attempts to make him renounce the Orthodox faith.

It is worth mentioning that the same Portuguese government authorities which had accused Thirumeni of being a traitor had sent distinguished representatives to stand in the first row of the funeral procession of Blessed Alvares Thirumeni. In the annals of history, the names of oppressors are forgotten but names of brave souls like Blessed Alvares Thirumeni, who fought for truth and justice till the last breath, are etched for eternity. Truth can never be hidden forever. Satyamev Jayate.

May the memory of Blessed Alvares Thirumeni be eternal! 

In Christ,

Rincy John

 

References: 

Carmo Azevedo; Patriot and Saint- The Life Story of Bishop Mar Julius –I, Panjim 1988

Edavaka Pathrika, 1906- Kumbham.

George Kurian, Saint Alvares Mar Julius (A life history), St Mary’s Orthodox Church, Ribander, Goa, Pgs-141-146 (includes photographs).

Pratima Kamat, Mutiny in the Portuguese Army, Farar Far, Local resistance to colonial hegemony in Goa-1510-1912, Institute Menezes Braganza, Panaji, Goa.

 

 

The Treasure

Life and times of Blessed Alvares Mar Julius Metropolitan (of blessed memory). Commemorated on 23^rd September.

Friday, October 05, 1979. A feeling of excitement and anticipation prevailed over a small group of people assembled at St Inez church situated in the Santa Inez part of Panjim. An uncommon sentiment since the sight of a graveyard usually evokes the emotion of sorrow, prayer, remembrance of the dear departed and of course, fear and dread in many.

At around 3 PM that day, His Grace Dr. Philipose Mar Theophilus Metropolitan (Bombay and Angamaly diocese), Mr. Francis Alleluia Menezes (Panjim Municipal Council Chairman), Rev Fr. T.E. Isaac (Vicar- St Mary’s Orthodox Church, Panjim) along with the managing committee members of the parish were present at the St Inez Cemetery beholding a cross that stood tall amongst the wild bushes and plants which had engulfed its surroundings. That cross indeed was a simulacrum of the blessed soul, buried underneath eons ago, who withstood his ground against the ruling establishment and the Roman religious authorities even as he faced severe persecution.

The wild vegetation was cleaned with the help of cemetery workers. The onlookers bowed their heads to the tomb over which was a marble slab that stated, ‘Padre Alvares, who was a great humanitarian missionary and a great patriot.

“Offer incense before opening the grave. Gather any bone fragments found therein. If there are none, then collect the topmost portion of the soil just beneath the grave, bring it to the church and entomb it in there with grandeur.” Such were the instructions from His Holiness Baselios Marthoma Mathews I Bava Thirumeni.

Theophilus Thirumeni offered incense and prayed at the grave. The cemetery workers removed the marble slab. The sound of the church bell resonated in the premises (another burial was shortly to happen in the cemetery and a large gathering was present). It appeared a thrilling discovery was about to be made. Everyone was anxiously waiting.

The journey to this stage was a long one. There was no Orthodox Church in Panjim during the period following the Goan liberation. As the time passed, Holy Qurbana used to be celebrated in the military camps at Margao and Bambolim as and when a priest was available. Thereafter, Rev Fr. Philip Pallichira would come from Mangalore once in a month and celebrate the Divine Liturgy. This proceeded on a regular basis and thus a congregation of Orthodox faithful was formed in Goa.

In 1967, His Grace Mathews Mar Athanasios Metropolitan (Outside Kerala Diocese) (later His Holiness Baselios Marthoma Mathews I Catholicose of the East and Malankara Metropolitan) visited Goa and celebrated Holy Qurbana at St Inez Church (St Inez Church had opened its doors for the Orthodox Christians to use the church for Divine Liturgy). Thirumeni was aware that Alvares Thirumeni spent his last days in Goa and was buried there. 

After the Holy Qurbana, while having a casual chat with the vicar of St Inez Church, Thirumeni inquired about Bishop Alvares. The vicar- Rev Fr Joaquim Augesto Dias knew about Blessed Alvares Thirumeni and the exact place where he was buried. The bushes were cleared and the tomb of Blessed Alvares Thirumeni was identified. On the same day, a meeting of the Malankara Orthodox Christians was held, and it was decided that an Orthodox Church should grace Goa and the relics of Blessed Alvares Thirumeni should be translocated into this church. The realization of this dream took another 12 years. On the occasion of the golden jubilee commemoration of Alvares Thirumeni- 23 September 1973, the foundation stone of the Orthodox church in Panjim (Ribander) was laid. It was a daunting task for this small congregation to build a church, financial issues being an important concern. 

Coming back to the events of October 05, 1979. When cement and soil was removed from the grave, a lead box became visible which was taken outside with due devotion.

With trembling hands, the cover of the box was removed. The bones of the venerable bishop, whose body became one with the earth fifty-six years back, was intact and well preserved! It was indeed a glorious witness to his blessed life.

“Achen and I are taking this. You all can come after the tomb has been organized properly”, Theophilus Thirumeni’s voice choked as he said. Theophilus Thirumeni and Isaac Achen proceeded to St Mary’s Orthodox Church, with such joy and enthusiasm as if they had secured a treasure. A treasure it indeed was!

The box was brought to Ribander church with piety and respect. The lead box was covered with a black covering and a sign of cross was made over it with a white cloth. Amidst candles and cross, the relics were kept for public viewing. Two days later, on October 07^th Sunday, after the Holy Qurbana, the remains of Blessed Alvares Thirumeni were entombed in St. Mary’s Orthodox Church, Ribander, Panjim.

During the public meeting which happened after the services got over, Theophilus Thirumeni said that this tomb/church will become a pilgrim center not just for Bombay diocese (St. Mary’s Orthodox church, Ribander now comes under the diocese of Brahmavar) but of the entire Malankara Orthodox Church. Those prophetic words were fulfilled thirty years later in the year 2008. Panjim Municipal Mayor expressed happiness that, with the veneration accorded to Blessed Alvares Thirumeni that day, the decision taken by the Panjim municipality in 1923 was fulfilled to a certain extent (in 1923, the Panjim Municipal council had decided to erect a memorial in remembrance of the great Goan freedom fighter- Alvares Thirumeni which was refused by the Portuguese government).

When the church was reconstructed in the same place, Blessed Alvares Thirumeni’s relics were moved to the present mausoleum made on the side of the altar by His Holiness Baselios Marthoma Mathews II, Catholicose of the East and Malankara Metropolitan, in the year 2001.

St. John Chrysostom extols Antioch which received he relics of St Ignatius Noorono (who was martyred in Rome) thus: “For that city (Rome) received his blood as it dropped, but you (Antioch) were honoured with his remains, you enjoyed his episcopate, they enjoyed his martyrdom. They saw him in conflict, and victorious, and crowned, but you have him continually. For a little time, God removed him from you, and with greater glory granted him again to you.” (Homily on St. Ignatius, NPNF, Series-I, Volume IX)

The oppressors thought they had erased the memory of Blessed Alvares Thirumeni forever, but truth triumphed, and the treasure was revealed. With greater glory, God granted back to the children of the Malankara Orthodox church the venerable holy father who continuously intercedes for his spiritual children and whose life is a mighty inspiration for generations to come.

By the prayers of our holy father among the saints-Blessed Alvares Thirumeni, Lord have mercy upon us!

In Christ,

Rincy John

References:

1) (Abridged; Translated from Malayalam): Rev Fr. T.E Isaac, The Great humanitarian missionary and a patriot, Malankara Sabha, September 2001, Pg-6,7.

2) George Kurian, Saint Alvares Mar Julius (A life history), St Mary’s Orthodox Church, Ribander, Goa, Pgs-141-146 (includes photographs).

Remembering Very Rev Cyril Rambachan (of blessed memory). (d. 02 Sep 2008)

On September 02, the Church commemorates a noble monk who deeply loved the Orthodox Church and her faith- Very Rev. Cyril Rambachan. Like St Cyril of Alexandria- the pillar of faith, Cyril Rambachan was a staunch proponent of Orthodoxy and wrote numerous books to make the people aware of the Orthodox faith. Rambachan belonged to the Bethlehem monastery, Chengamannadu- this monastery started as an extension of St George Orthodox Monastery, Othera. 

In an age where the laity is bombarded with the new age 'bible only' preachers; Rambachan would say: "It is the Church that teaches; the Holy Bible validates the instructions of the Church."

Throughout his life, Cyril Rambachan relentlessly focused on sharing and explaining the Orthodox faith. He would ask two questions to those who intended to leave the Church which would allow his listeners to introspect – “1) Do you think being in the Orthodox Church will prove to be a barrier for the salvation of the soul? and 2) If you have difference of opinion within family, do you bid farewell to your home forever and stay in a nearby house?”

Cyril Rambachan was born on November 10,1919 to Shri Abraham Panickar and Smt. Aleyamma Panickar. They belonged to the Mukallil family of Kundara (Kerala). Rambachan's name (before he adopted the name Cyril on being ordained as monk-priest/Rambachan) was M.A. Varghese Panickar. 

Rambachan once shared an interesting history about his last name 'Panickar'. Once the king of Kottarakara paid a visit to the king of Kayamkulam in his palace. For the guest monarch's entertainment, a play depicting an ancient comic story was staged. The Raja of Kottarakara was impressed and enquired about the actors. "They are very loyal and skilled in using weapons", was the response of the Kayamkulam King. The Raja of Kottarakara requested that some of these people be given to him. His wish was granted and few of those martial art practitioners were settled in Kundara with the title of 'Panickar' ascribed to them. A church was built for them which is now the Kundara Valiyapally (St Thomas Orthodox Church, Kundara). 

Varghese Panicker worked as a teacher for a year at St Kuriakose L.P School after completing 9th standard and later completed S.S.L.C from MGD English medium school. The young lad was in his twenties when the second world war started (1939-45). He went to Madras and worked as a civilian in the Army. His designation was ‘Quartermaster Clerk’ i.e. he had to oversee the civilian management of 25 army trucks.

After this stint, Varghese Panicker returned to Kerala and from 1947-50, he taught at Kundara M.G.D High School. Thereafter, for three years he worked as Library Inspector for Kollam, Karunagapally, Karthikappally taluk. In 1953, he resigned from the job and became a member of the Othera Dayara (St George Orthodox Monastery). The Superior of the Monastery at that time was Rev Fr E. Mathews (later His Holiness Baselios Marthoma Mathews II Bava Thirumeni of blessed memory). The monastery had 18 inmates. From 1953-58, Br. Varghese studied in M.D Seminary- his batch consisted of 12 seminarians. His Grace Mathews Mar Epiphanios Metropolitan (of blessed memory) was Rambachan’s batchmate.

Dn. Varghese was ordained to priesthood on March 25, 1958 and in a span of approximately five decades, Fr Geevarghese Panicker served numerous parishes within Kerala/ India and abroad, some of them being- Kudassanad, Kozhikode cathedral, Mavelikkara Puthiyacavu, Kollam cathedral, Vellore, Singapore, Malaysia etc.

In 1987, His Holiness Baselios Marthoma Mathews I Bava Thirumeni ordained Geevarghese Achen to the rank of Rambachan (full monk/monk-priest) at Kottayam Devalokam Aramana chapel.

Nothing would be a barrier for Rambachan when it came to prayer matters. His bag always had the book of common prayers. Even during travels, he would stick to the prayer schedule. If he was walking down the road and should it be the time of prayer, he would find a secluded place (usually under the canopy of a tree) away from public gaze and start praying. He would observe silence and pray making the sign of cross while travelling in a vehicle.

St. Kuriakose Seminary in Kundara, or Kundara Seminary as known locally, was started by His Holiness Baselios Geevarghese II Bava Thirumeni (of blessed memory) to focus on the activities of the southern dioceses residing in Kundara. Cyril Rambachan served as the Manager of Kundara Seminary for 26 years (1982-2008). It was his initiative to have the relics of St George, Mar Kauma, St Kuriakose and his mother St Yulithi established in the Seminary. Rambachan would organize special prayers in Seminary chapel every Friday for the students of M.G.D School, Kundara and counsel them in faith.

On being asked if he is scared to lead a solitary life at Kundara Seminary, Rambachan pointed to the portraits of the holy fathers in the main hall of Seminary and said that he has the company of the departed holy fathers so why should one fear at all.

Alongwith being the Superior of Chengamannadu Bethlehem monastery for couple of years, Cyril Rambachan also served as Sunday School teacher, Kollam Diocesan Sunday School Secretary and diocesan Youth Movement Secretary, Vaidika Sangham General Secretary (Central), 'Sanyasaprasthaanam' (Monastic movement) Central Vice President.

Rambachan would grieve about the fact that our monasteries are seeing fewer youth joining it. For him the decreased interest in monastic life amongst the youth was a matter of grave concern. Wanting to continue his solitary ascetic lifestyle, he personally met his Holiness Baselios Marthoma Mathews I Bava Thirumeni to withdraw his name upon knowing that he was nominated for episcopate.

Adhering to his spiritual father's (His Holiness Baselios Marthoma Mathews II Bava Thirumeni) call- "Be a part of the pilgrimage focusing on heaven"; Rambachan undertook many pilgrimages, starting in 1978, to several countries of biblical importance like Israel, Jordan, Greece, Egypt. He did an in-depth research on the monasteries in Egypt and has published books about this experience.

After tirelessly serving the Church all his life, Cyril Rambachan departed from earthly life on 02 September 2008 and is entombed at Chengamannadu Bethlehem monastery.

In an interview, Rambachan was asked to share a message for the readers. May his message below be firmly engraved in our hearts:

"Participate without fail in the liturgical life and rituals of the Malankara Orthodox Church. Love your Church. Respect the holy fathers. See to it that you always maintain simplicity and purity in your life."

May the memory of Very Rev. Cyril Rambachan be eternal.

By the prayers of the holy fathers and mothers, Lord have mercy upon us and help us.

In Christ,

Rincy John

Reference:(Translated from Malayalam) Bethlehemile Theerthadakan, Editor:  Fr. K. Geevarghse, Chengamanad, Published by B.A. Publications, Chengamanad, 2009.

06th August- Commemorating His Grace Alexios Mar Theodosius Metropolitan (of blessed memory).

As we celebrate the Feast of Transfiguration of our Lord, the Malankara Orthodox Church also commemorates the holy father- His Grace Alexios Mar Theodosius Metropolitan, the champion of Orthodoxy, who like the apostle(s)- St John, epitomized purity of heart; like St Peter, was zealous in his convictions; and like St James exemplified moral courage.

One of the common sayings of Mar Theodosius Thirumeni was-

“Only a converted man can convert another man; Only a converted church can convert the world”. *

The great Feast of Transfiguration commemorates the event of Christ’s appearance becoming glorious and radiant as He prayed at Mount Tabor with His disciples Peter, James, and John. There appeared Elijah and Moses, speaking with Jesus and the disciples heard a voice from the cloud- “This is My beloved Son. Hear Him!” After this awe-inspiring event, Jesus Christ and His disciples come down from the mountain and continued with healing ministry. In this context, the saying of Mar Theodosius Thirumeni is of great importance and learning. To be converted simply doesn’t mean updating the ‘religion’ section in the govt forms/IDs. The calling to the summit of the mountain is not merely to acknowledge Christ’s presence. The conversion, more than a literal physical meaning, implies the transformation of our hearts to be receptive to Christ’s Love and to share that love with others at the foothill.

BIRTH/EARLY LIFE

Mar Theodosius was born on August 28, 1888 as Chandy/M.M. Alexander in the traditionally priestly family of Mattackal at Niranam to parents Mathai and Kunjadamma. He had his school education at Mar Gregorios Memorial High School, Tiruvalla and Mar Dionysius High School, Kottayam and College education (1912-15) in the Church Missionary Society College at Kottayam.

At the age of 19, the young Alexander was called to serve in the Lord’s vineyard and received diaconate ordination from His Beatitude Joseph Mar Dionysius V (Pulikkotil II) Thirumeni. Dn Alexander joined Barisol Divinity College in East Bengal in 1915 and later in 1918 Serampore, for theological studies. In 1918, Dn. Alexander was ordained a priest by His Grace Yuyakim Mar Ivanios Metropolitan at Parumala Seminary and was called Fr. Alexios.

MEETING FR. P. T. GEEVARGHESE

It was in Serampore, that Fr. Alexios came in contact with Fr. P. T. Geevarghese (later Mar Ivanios of Syro-Malankara faction). Their focus was on starting a monastic movement which was well received among the Church dignitaries. On their return from Serampore in 1918. they established a unique monastery named Bethany and a monastic order at Mundanmala, a hilly forest area at Perunadu near Ranny on a hundred-acre plot donated by E.J. John.

Over the years, Bethany Monastery grew in stature but received a catastrophic blow when Fr. P. T. Geevarghese, its Superior, defected to the Roman faith taking with him a number of inmates on September 20,1930. It seemed that everything which Bethany stood for was lost. Fr Alexios rising up to the occasion like a flaming tower, gave Bethany a new life and led it from success to success. Today, Bethany has a complex of institutions- monastery, convent, schools and hospitals.

METROPOLITAN

Fr. Alexios was raised to the office of Episcopate on April 7, 1938 by His Holiness Baselios Geevarghese II Bava Thirumeni at Carmel Dayara, Mulanthuruthy, and took the name Mar Theodosius. Diocese of Kollam and the Outside Kerala Diocese were assigned to the Metropolitan’s charge. Mar Theodosius had the foresight and vision of the future development possibilities of the Church beyond the frontiers of Kerala. In fact, Mar Theodosios Thirumeni was the architect of the Outside Kerala Diocese. In 1947, a nucleus of the Diocese was laid when the Metropolitan formed the Indian Orthodox Mission at Madras. This was followed by organising a group of four dedicated priests viz Fr. K. A. George, Fr. C.V. John, Fr. Simon Mathews and Fr. K.C. Thomas (later His Grace Thomas Mar Makarios Metropolitan of blessed memory), who were sent to Pune, Calcutta, Coonnor and Delhi respectively. 

INTERNATIONAL FORUMS

Mar Theodosius Thirumeni took keen interest in representing the Malankara Orthodox Church in international inter-church forums and focus the attention of Western Churches to the ancient apostolic origin of Malankara Church. He travelled to London in 1933 to attend the Centenary Celebrations of Oxford Movement, to Oxford in 1937 to represent the Malankara Orthodox Church in the first Faith and Order Conference and to Edinburgh the same year to attend the Life and Work Conference, and in 1948 to Amsterdam to participate in the World Council of Churches (WCC) Conference along with His Holiness Baselios Geevarghese II Bava Thirumeni. Till 1953, Mar Theodosius Thirumeni was a member of the Central Committee of WCC.

The ardent stress on conviction of faith and on the autocephalous nature of Malankara Orthodox Church was a distinguishing trait in Mar Theodosius Thirumeni. He stood firm in his mother church even when his overwhelming mentor- Fr. P. T. Geevarghese (Mar Ivanios) left the mother church. He is quoted to have said “Even if it happens that I become the old lay man Chandy, I do not like to be a Metropolitan of a Church which has lost its freedom.”

HEAVENLY ABODE

On August 6, 1965, after battling prolonged illness, coinciding the day when the Church celebrates the Feast of Transfiguration, this great luminary of the Malankara Orthodox Church left for heavenly abode.

Mar Theodosius Thirumeni was an austere ascetic and a good shepherd who led a simple life devoted to prayer and worship. His simplicity, asceticism, conviction of faith, love, care and concern have inspired many.

May the prayers and intercessions of the holy father be our refuge always.

In Christ,

Rincy John

Ref: David Daniel, The Orthodox Church of India (History), © 1986, Published by Rachel David, New Delhi, Pgs 530-534.

*Quote of Theodosius Thirumeni referred from Bethany Asramam website-http://bethanyasramam.com/inspirers.php (accessed 05 August 2020)

The inclusive and global vision of His Beatitude Joseph Mar Dionysius V (Pulikkottil II), Malankara Metropolitan (Malankara Sabha Thejas).

Like a caring shepherd, Pulikkottil II Thirumeni not only faithfully guided the flock but also envisaged a brilliant vision to have the flame of the Orthodox faith be lit worldwide. Under Thirumeni’s leadership, we see the emergence of two such prominent clergies- one from the Roman church and one from the Parsi community, namely Blessed Alvares Mar Julius Thirumeni and Fr Dr. S.D. Baba respectively.

(     A) Fr. Dr. S.D. Baba- From Zoroastrianism to Orthodoxy.

Pulikkotil II Thirumeni lived in an era when India was under the colonial rule of the British Empire. Thirumeni wished that an ambassador of the Orthodox Church in India should be present in London who would mainly publish details/news regarding the Malankara Church in the English newspapers and represent the Malankara Orthodox Church in important events taking place in London- the capital of that empire known as the one on which the sun never sets. Thirumeni’s vision was that having such representation will increase the glory of Malankara Orthodox Church worldwide. Without much delay, Thirumeni’s fervent prayers for this desire was answered in the person of Fr. Dr. S.D. Baba.

Dr. S.D. Baba was a Parsi by birth and a native of Pune. He left for England at a young age and became a doctor by profession after completing medical studies. He embraced Christianity and was a part of the Presbyterian church. He also became an ordained minister with Presbyterian community.

Though Dr. Baba wasn’t known to Mar Dionysius V Thirumeni but he was aware about the existence of the Malankara Orthodox church and her history. We can assume that it would have been due to Alvares Thirumeni’s outreach that someone like Dr Baba would have known about the Malankara Orthodox church which was then concentrated in Kerala only. Of course, that period was almost a century before the internet or social media happened wherein, we could get the information on our fingertips.

Eventually, Dr Baba met Pulikkottil II Thirumeni and over the course of time he became well versed with the tenets of the Orthodox faith and became a member of the Malankara church. Dr S.D. Baba wished to be an ordained priest of the Malankara Orthodox church. Since the ordination from Presbyterian church was not considered valid and travelling from London to India will be a cumbersome affair (including financial burden), Pulikkottil Thirumeni instructed him to travel to Jerusalem and get ordained by the Syriac Metropolitan Elias Mar Ivanios Thirumeni. Mar Ivanios gave diaconate and priesthood ordination to Dr S.D. Baba. With the approval from Pulikkottil Thirumeni, Fr. Dr. S.D. Baba was appointed as the Ambassador of the Malankara Orthodox Church to London.

He was a passionate about and remained firm in the Orthodox faith. He translated the liturgy of St James in English and would celebrate the Holy Qurbana in English using the translated version. It is sad to note that almost a century later, there are still parishes in the diaspora who are in two minds about having the liturgy in English catering to the youth!

Fr Dr. S.D Baba had written articles and essays about our Church in the English dailies. Fr S.D. Baba was invited as the representative of the Malankara Church to attend the funeral of King Edward and was given the honor equivalent to what was bestowed to the ambassadors from different countries.

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    B) Blessed Alvares Mar Julius Thirumeni- the courageous prelate who upheld the True Faith amidst persecutions.

The Goan priest Fr. Alvares was disgruntled with the Roman church and his quest for the true apostolic church led him to Malankara. What attracted the Goan padre to the Orthodox fold, was not only its faith and the indigenous nature of the Malankara Church, but also the pleasing and loving personality of Pulikkottil II Thirumeni. Thirumeni wholeheartedly welcomed Fr Alvares to the Orthodox faith, who was later ordained to the order of bishophood. Like this nation’s patron saint- St Thomas, Blessed Alvares Thirumeni’s mission was spread across geographies many of which is yet to be discovered.

It is impossible to pen down the missionary activities of Blessed Alvares Thirumeni’s in few paragraphs. In a society entrenched deep into caste-based discrimination, Mar Alvares’s mission extended to the people of lower castes (which included the fishermen community in the present Tamil Nadu). This happened ages before Mahatma Gandhi coined the term ‘Harijan’.  At a time when it was unthinkable to include people from lower caste to the mainstream, Mar Dionysius V Thirumeni offered his support to the newly converts thus- “this group was to be considered as my own flock and I take much interest and warm care in their welfare.”

One thing to note as we commemorate Pulikkottil II Thirumeni’s memory is his vision and focus on the Church’s outreach to different communities which is seen from the example above. It was also evident with the ordination of Rene Villate (Mar Timetheos) to cater the spiritual needs of the Western world.

With Pulikkottil II Thirumeni’s repose, the disconnect with Mar Alvares Thirumeni’s mission grew and it is an unfortunate naked truth that Mar Alvares wasn’t accorded the due honor for countless years by the Malankara Orthodox Church. Now, when we commemorate the memory of Blessed Alvares Thirumeni with much devotion and glory, indeed the soul of his spiritual guru- Pulikkottil II Thirumeni will be content!

Had it not been for the Mar Dionysius V Thirumeni- the brilliant visionary, the church would have been never blessed with the presence of Blessed Alvares Thirumeni and Fr. Dr. S.D Baba!

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May the prayers and intercessions of the holy fathers be our refuge always!

In Christ,

Rincy John

Reference:

Translated from Malayalam, Malankara Sabhayude Suvarna Yugasilpi, Malankara Sabha Thejas Pulikkottil Joseph Mar Dionysius II, Vol. I, Editor- Fr. Dr. Joseph Cheeran, Published by: Dr. Geevarghese Mar Yulios, M. J. D. Publishing House, Kunnamkulam, 2011, Pg-641,642.

Saints, Goddesses And Kings - Muslims and Christians in South Indian Society, 1700-1900, Susan Bayly, Cambridge University Press-1989. Pg 318.

St Thomas in the Holy Scripture: “Then another of His disciples said to Him, “Lord, let me first go and bury my father.”” (St Matthew 8:21; NKJV).

Below is an excerpt from a Malayalam article by the venerable (late) MC Kuriakose Rambachan- the author of many illustrious literary works.

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Then another of His disciples said to Him, “Lord, let me first go and bury my father.”” (St Matthew 8:21; NKJV).

Some commentators are of the opinion that this question was asked by St Thomas. Lord Jesus Christ was preparing to leave Capernaum and cross the Sea (of Galilee). St Thomas was attracted to the teachings of Christ and became His adherent. A question popped up in his mind- ‘whether to follow Christ immediately or should he do that after bidding final farewell to his father’? And that is how he asked the question- “Lord, let me first go and bury my father.” The multitude following Jesus was content with seeing Him and hearing with what He preached. However, the blessed apostle's focus was firmly set on Christ and his heart entrenched with His divine instructions. (While listening to our Lord’s preaching) the apostle developed a thought about leading a life of sacrifice- renouncing everything for Christ’s sake. Let the readers contemplate that having such thoughts is the first step for living a hope filled life.

It is good to have a desire to live a life of sacrifice but one should be wary about thinking too much (or excessively scrutinizing such desire). The latter is dangerous and acts as a deterrent. We have noted this from the experience of many people.

One should trust in God and take the ‘leap of faith’ when being inclined to renounce everything for Christ. Leave the future to God. The Psalmist implores- “O my God, I trust in You; Let me not be ashamed” (Psalm 25:2). If we have that faith and longing expressed by the Psalmist, then we will not be put to shame.

Lord Jesus Christ’s response to the disciple’s question was thus- “Follow Me, and let the dead bury their own dead.” (St Matthew 8:22).

Once they have set their mind to serve the Church, many young men have doubts like- should I get ordained or not? Should I marry or lead a celibate life? There are faithful, who having decided to offer financial contribution to the church, keep on delaying the date for giving the offering.

A delay in working upon godly desires only prevents us in experiencing the virtue of sacrifice.

St Thomas was in two minds- his heart had a great longing to follow Christ, but at the same time, thoughts about his duties as a son also took birth in his mind. (Upon hearing Christ’s response) St Thomas took the ‘leap of faith’. He didn’t resort to excessive thinking- calculating the pros and cons of following Christ, and that is why the former thought process (about following Christ) won over the latter (waiting till he has completed obligations towards his father).

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O Lord Jesus Christ, by the prayers and intercession of our patron saint- St Thomas the Apostle, may our hearts be receptive to your teachings and be strengthened to be able to respond promptly to godly inspirations.

In Christ,

Rincy John

Reference: Translated from the Malayalam article- 'Mar Thoma Shleeha, Malankara Sabha, July issue, 1949.

Picture: (Late) MC Kuriakose Rambachan with His Holiness Baselios Geevarghese II Bava Thirumeni (of blessed memory) and His Grace Kuriakose Mar Gregorios Metropolitan (of blessed memory)/Pampady Thirumeni.

‘Six traits of the fishermen that 'fishers of men' ought to have’ - His Grace Zachariah Mar Dionysius Metropolitan (of blessed memory)

Sayings of the saintly fathers series/June 30-Feast of Twelve Apostles.

 The liturgical calendar of the Indian Orthodox Church commemorates the twelve apostles on June 30th. The Lord called few simple fishermen to His ministry and told them- “Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men.” They immediately left their nets and followed Him." (St Matthew 4: 19-20).

In the previous post, we noted His Grace Zachariah Mar Dionysius Thirumeni (of blessed memory) reminding us of our evangelical responsibility as we commemorate the holy apostles. In this post Thirumeni elucidates few qualities of the fishermen disciples which is needed for 'fishers of men' and should be specially noted by those who are engaged in gospel work including preaching. 

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1) Patience: The fisherman needs to be patient; exhibiting signs of impatience will only decrease the chances of catching the fish. As the farmer waits (for the harvest), the evangelist needs to wait till the Gospel finds home in the heart of men and grows fruit.

2) Perseverance: In the process of catching fishes, the fisherman throws the net again and again. Similarly, the evangelist needs to have a perseverant attitude.

3) Courage: The fisherman's boat is very small as compared to the gigantic sea. But the fisherman is courageous enough to face the perils of the sea. Likewise, the evangelist should be courageous to face any opposition and even death when proclaiming the True Faith. 

His Grace Zachariah Mar Dionysius Metropolitan of blessed memory

4) Alert: The fisherman needs to be alert at all times during the fishing process. When the fishes are caught in the net, the fisherman needs to promptly pull the nets at the right time. There arise many instances in a man’s life, when he would intently listen to the Gospel, and be moved to repentance. This is the apt time when the evangelist needs to lead them to the Lord.

5) Fit the bait to the fish: The water bodies contain variety of fishes - big and small. The ideal bait would be the one which attracts all kinds of fishes. The evangelist should study various aspects of his audience/gospel listeners- like their educational and social background and adapt his sermon/approach accordingly. We can seek inspiration from St Paul’s methodology. He proclaimed Christ as the God whom Athenians worshipped without knowing. (St Paul saw an altar with inscription- To the unknown God' in Athens (Acts of the Apostles 17:22 onwards)). St Paul says- "I have become all things to all men, that I might by all means save some." (1 Corinthians 9:22, NKJV).

6) Keep himself out of the sight: A good fisherman knows how to conceal himself and ensure that the fishes never sense his presence. Similarly, a preacher should never project himself while preaching. His only focus should be Christ and his evangelical duty. Even Christ, during His public ministry and preaching, focused on the Heavenly Father and made Him known to the men. St John the Baptist is a model figure for the evangelists. When Christ came in the view, the Baptist took a backseat. The reason why the hearts of listeners isn't moved when they hear sermons in Churches and elsewhere is because the preacher usually tries to make himself the focus of sermon.

May the feast of the apostles encourage us to inculcate the true spirit of evangelism.

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May the prayers of the holy apostles be our refuge always.

In Christ,

Rincy John

Reference:

Zachariah Mar Dionysius- Vrathashudhiyil thalliritta jeevitham, Ed- Ramban Elias Koshy, Published by Mount Tabor Dayara Pathanapuram, Nov 2014 Pg- 173-175. 

The first Seminarians.

His Grace Geevarghese Mar Ivanios Thirumeni of blessed memory shares the spiritual lessons learnt from the journey of the ‘first seminarians’-the holy Apostles. Excerpts below:

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The world’s first theological seminary was the place where the disciples received the doctrinal and spiritual instructions. The Lord Himself was their Teacher in the subject of theology. The below Scripture verses are from the notes of the last lecture that they attended to in the ‘classroom’.

“Now as they said these things, Jesus Himself stood in the midst of them, and said to them, “Peace to you.” But they were terrified and frightened, and supposed they had seen a spirit. And He said to them, “Why are you troubled? And why do doubts arise in your hearts? Behold My hands and My feet, that it is I Myself. Handle Me and see, for a spirit does not have flesh and bones as you see I have.”  When He had said this, He showed them His hands and His feet. But while they still did not believe for joy, and marvelled, He said to them, “Have you any food here?” So they gave Him a piece of a broiled fish and some honeycomb. And He took it and ate in their presence.” (St Luke 24: 36-43; NKJV)

Even after completing their ‘theological studies’ over the course of three and half years, the disciples still battled with doubts, disagreements and faithlessness.

Simon Peter was the leader of the disciple band; in the present-day seminary terms, he was selected as the ‘Reesh’ (leader) of this group.

The attributes of Simon Peter’s personality are reflective of the disposition of the entire disciple community. In a nutshell, he was an impulsive individual. There are many passages in the Holy Scripture that reveal this aspect of Simon Peter’s persona.

When Simon Peter saw that the Lord was walking over the waters, he too felt an urge to do the same (ref -St Matthew 14:22-33). The Lord called him- ‘Come’. Simon Peter got off the boat, looked onto the Lord, kept his foot on the waters and started walking. Suddenly the wind started blowing. Simon Peter got scared and started drowning. The Lord gave him a helping hand and safely took him ashore.

We need to pay attention to an important fact when we read about this incident. As soon as Simon Peter took his gaze off from the Lord, he started sinking in the waters! It isn’t the only lesson that we learn from this episode. These verses caution us of our desire to become Christ-like hastily, without putting any effort. In today’s times, everyone wants to quickly reach a stage when they can perform miracles. One nurtures a desire to be ‘the one’ who can walk on waters and be the object of awe of the mesmerized onlookers on the dry land. This thought of being ‘the one’- wherein we exaggerate our worth and wish to become the entity of reverence for others – this very thought is harmful for the spiritual life.

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Let us pray- O Lord, You who called the holy Apostles- ordinary men for a divine mission, transforming them- patiently and lovingly, in Your abundant mercy, transform and illumine our hardened hearts.

By the prayers and intercessions of the holy Apostles, may the Lord have mercy upon us and help us!

Wishing all a blessed Apostles Fast.

In Christ,

Rincy John

Reference: ‘Maunathinte Laavanyam’ (The Beauty of Silence); Chapter-2 ‘Gyanathinte Aathmaavu (‘The Spirit of Wisdom’), Baselian Books, Sixth Edition-Oct 2014 Pg-25, 26)