Mor Osthatheos Thomas +2000

Mor Osthatheos Thomas +2000

July 28th is the anniversary of the demise of of HG Mor Osthatheos Thomas +2000. Late Mor Osthatheos Thomas was the former Bishop of Kochi Diocese. Thomas was born on 5 June 1904 to Mathai Panthalumakkil, Sitharkuzhi(Pachilakkat) Puthenpurayil & Annamma. He spent his childhood at his native Puthuveli Koothatukulam. He received the order of Korooyo from Malankara Metropolitan St. Coorilos Paulose, Kochuparambil(Panampady) at the age of nine. He joined Pambakuda seminary for theology. He was the disciple of Rev. Raban Geevarghese Kochuparambil & Rev. Konat Mathen malfono & Metropolitan Mor Themotheos Augen. Following the advice of the Patriarchal Delegate, Mor Yulios Elias Qoro, he offered his services at St. Mathias Church, Madras. He later taught at St. Stephen’s Church School Keeramabara, Vadakara High School (11 years as headmaster), helped establish TTC School Vadakara, & helped start English Medium High School Perambur, Chennai. The Malankara Synod selected him as a Metropolitan when he was 71. Mor Ignatius Yac'ub III of blessed memory consecrated him Metropolitan with the name Osthatheos on 12 June 1975. From 1975 to 1982, he was the assistant Metropolitan of Kandanad & Kottayam dioceses. He was appointed as the Metropolitan of Kochi during the first visit of late Patriarch Mor Ignatius Zakka I Iwas of blessed memory, to Malankara in 1982. He transformed Kymtha Chapel into the diocesan headquarters, & instituted many other developments across the diocese. He founded 'The Gregorian Academy.' The Holy See honoured Mor Osthatheos by bestowing on him the title ‘Snugro’d Haymonoutho’ (the protector of faith). He was deputed to help HB Catholicos Baselius Paulose II who was unwell. He also did a commendable service as the chairman of the litigation committee of the Church. Thirumeni later retired from administrative duties, but continued training deacons of the diocese. He entered eternal rest at the age of 96 on July 28th 2000. Mor Osthatheos Thomas was entombed at ‘Kymtha Seminary' Cathedral, Thiruvankulam. Biography courtesy, 'Martyrs, Saints and Prelates of the Syriac Orthodox Church' Huthomo sung by HG Mor Osthatheos Isaac (relative of late Mor Osthatheos Thomas) in memorial: https://youtu.be/Xq9JSZdrnjQ