Honoring His Beatitude Moran Mor Baselios Thomas I - A Legacy of Faith and Unity

Remembering His Beatitude Moran Mor Baselios Thomas I: The Second Jacob Burdana of Syrian Orthodox Church

On October 31, at 5:21 PM IST, His Beatitude Moran Mor Baselios Thomas I, Catholicos of the Malankara Jacobite Syrian Orthodox Church, entered his eternal home. Fondly known as "the second Jacob Burdana of our church," he was a beacon of dedication, resilience, and unwavering faith. With his departure, we join millions in mourning the loss of a visionary leader, a humble shepherd, and a devoted disciple who lived every moment for his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Yet, even in our grief, we find comfort and joy knowing that this day is celebrated in heaven, as His Beatitude now stands in the presence of the Holy Trinity, reunited with the saints, martyrs, and patriarchs of our faith.

A Childhood Rooted in Faith and Humility

Born in a modest, devout Christian family, Thomas Bava displayed an early passion for spirituality and a deep understanding of the love of Christ. His early days were filled with prayer, sacrificial devotion, and a unique dedication to the holy faith that left a lasting impression on those around him. He spent countless hours immersed in the scriptures, nurturing his love for God. These formative years taught him the value of humility, empathy, and grace—qualities that would later define his ministry and leadership.

Guided by the Spirit and by the example of saints and martyrs, he grew with a deep-rooted commitment to preserving the sacred traditions of the Jacobite Syrian Orthodox Church. His mentors recognized his unique calling early on, and as he rose within the ranks of the clergy, he carried with him the simplicity, wisdom, and humility of his youth. His compassion and accessibility became a hallmark of his character, as he welcomed and counseled the faithful from all walks of life, never losing sight of his calling to serve as a shepherd to the people.

The Pillar of Faith in a Time of Trial

As the Catholicos, Thomas Bava assumed his role during one of the most challenging periods in the history of our church. A series of disputes over church governance and property rights escalated between the Malankara Jacobite Syrian Orthodox Church and the Indian Orthodox Church, resulting in a protracted legal battle that eventually reached the Supreme Court of India. When the court ruled against our church, effectively transferring numerous churches and properties to the Indian Orthodox Church, the situation grew dire. Our people were disheartened, and tensions were high as many feared that this decision would shatter the unity of our community.

But His Beatitude remained resolute. Rather than succumbing to the pressures of defeat, he embodied the teachings of Christ, choosing a path of peace, reconciliation, and faith. He fervently urged the faithful to stay united and to adhere to the spiritual lineage of the Holy Throne of Antioch. He reminded everyone that while buildings and lands may be lost, the faith and heritage handed down through the apostles could never be taken from us. His message resounded with unwavering strength: “The true church is not the stone walls, but the faith and traditions carried in each of your hearts.”

Preventing Internal Conflict and Ensuring Unity

In a time when the church was vulnerable to internal division and despair, His Beatitude took it upon himself to prevent any internal backlash. He worked tirelessly to maintain unity within our community, reaching out to leaders, clergy, and laypeople alike, encouraging them to put aside differences for the sake of preserving our holy traditions. His leadership was marked by wise counsel and thoughtful negotiation. He displayed a rare resilience, ensuring that any grievances were addressed with compassion and understanding, and he urged us to approach even our adversaries with grace.

Through his pastoral care and unwavering dedication, he maintained a balance that prevented a fracturing of our community. His humility, respect for tradition, and relentless dedication to upholding the faith played a pivotal role in helping the church endure this difficult period. He was a living example of the principles he preached, embodying the resilience and compassion of Christ.

A Legacy of Apostolic Service and Divine Mission

Thomas Bava’s spiritual journey reflects the glory of the ancient faith, from the Throne of Antioch to the hearts of the faithful in India. His legacy includes presiding over the funeral of His Holiness Ignatius Zakka Iwas I, the former Patriarch of Antioch, and the joyous consecration of His Holiness Ignatius Aphrem II, the current Patriarch. These moments symbolize his role as a bridge, linking the faith and tradition of our holy fathers with the future of our church.

Under his leadership, the Malankara Jacobite Syrian Orthodox Church continued to thrive, rooted in the apostolic faith, despite the many challenges. He was a true apostle of Christ, holding steadfast to the Throne of St. Peter, unwavering in his commitment to the legacy of our forefathers. His Beatitude’s dedication helped fortify the church’s spiritual backbone, ensuring that the Holy Throne of Antioch would continue to guide and protect our people.

Celebrating a Life of Devotion

His Beatitude’s life was marked by a rare blend of strength and humility. His spiritual depth, pastoral care, and advocacy for justice in the face of adversity have left an indelible mark on our church and its faithful. Today, as he takes his place among the saints, we are reminded of his example and encouraged to carry on his work by remaining true to the faith he so ardently defended.

The Glorious Gospel team joins the millions who mourn the loss of our beloved Catholicos. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the Jacobite Syrian Orthodox Church, knowing that we have lost not only a leader but also a father, mentor, and guide. His Beatitude Moran Mor Baselios Thomas I was indeed a shining light, a man of God who held fast to the teachings of Jesus Christ and upheld the sacred traditions of our church.

As we bid farewell to Thomas Bava, we do so with a spirit of gratitude and reverence. Though he is no longer with us in body, his spirit, teachings, and example will continue to inspire and guide us. Today, we celebrate the life of a man who stood for truth, justice, and the love of Christ. May his memory be eternal, and may we continue to walk the path he has shown us, carrying forward his legacy with faith, courage, and unity

Let us conclude this tribute with a prayer from the Syriac Orthodox funeral liturgy for a high priest:

"O Merciful Lord, who in Thy boundless compassion and wisdom appoints shepherds for Thy flock, grant rest and eternal peace to Thy faithful servant, Moran Mor Baselios Thomas I, who served Thy holy church with all his heart and soul. May his prayers and intercessions remain with us, and may he be numbered among the saints in the heavenly Jerusalem. As Thou art the resurrection and the life, raise him up with the righteous in glory and crown him with the joy of Thy presence. May his memory be a blessing, his life an example, and his rest in Thy divine light eternal. Amen."

In peace, we entrust him to Thee, O Lord, knowing that Thou art full of mercy and love. May his soul rest in everlasting peace, and may he dwell forever in the abodes of light, joy, and eternal life.